The type specific accreditation is the first of its kind in the world and is available now on a number of different ECDIS systems including OSI, PC Maritime, Transas and Kelvin Hughes, with JRC, Simrad and Totem Plus coming soon. Courses developed around the remaining leading ECDIS systems are planned in the near future.
ECDIS Ltd training courses prepare the mariner to use ECDIS systems to navigate safely, ultimately helping to reduce ECDIS related incidents and loss of life at sea. The Type Specific course is one day (8 hours) and includes presentations and practical exercises to ensure the trainee gets comprehensive training in the subject matter whilst building upon knowledge gained during an IMO 1.27 model course.
Mark Broster, managing director of ECDIS Ltd said, “We have responded to those mariners asking for more flexible and diverse ECDIS training by providing both STCW 1.27 Generic, and Type Specific training, as required by Flag and ISM respectively. ECDIS Ltd is unique in its ability to deliver both certificates, every day of every week, anywhere in the world. It takes time for our experts to develop each type approved course, but with such courses now being delivered by ECDIS Ltd, companies can plan for their necessary certification.”
John Dickinson, the Nautical Institute Head of Delegation at the IMO added, “The type specific ECDIS training offered by ECDIS Ltd has now been accredited by the Nautical Institute, who are satisfied that the training meets the high standards that are set out in the NI publication ‘ECDIS & Positioning’. We acknowledge the continual research and development of ECDIS Ltd into creating robust and comprehensive ECDIS training courses. Working with the leading manufacturers allows them to provide the training solutions required.”
Mal Instone, ECDIS Ltd director of operations and standards concluded, “ECDIS systems offer numerous benefits compared to conventional navigation and are considered to be a significant step towards safer navigation. Experience and investigations show that many mariners are not sufficiently familiar with the basics and proper use of ECDIS. Therefore, proper training and education for watchkeepers and navigators is vital if the safety benefits of ECDIS are to be realised. Knowing how to make proper use of electronic chart systems is fundamental to safe navigation, and this new course highlights our commitment to further that premise.”
