Training of seafarers working on ships operating in polar waters

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to identify the competence gaps for seafarers who sail in polar waters have after completing the existing training courses based on the Polar Code. The best way to protect the environment and people in the Polar regions is by increasing the knowledge and competence of the people working in the vulnerable regions to ensure they make the best possible decisions and avoid dangerous situations.

Chapter 12 in the Polar Code sets requirements to competence for personnel working on ships operating in polar waters, resulting in new courses developed to comply with the requirements in the Polar Code. The Basic and Advanced Polar Code courses focus on navigation in polar waters and are made for navigational officers, chief officers, and captains on ships operating in ice-covered waters, excluding those working on a vessel, not in charge of a navigational watch. It is, furthermore, suggested that either a “Polar basic safety course” can be developed and introduced for all seafarers working on ships operating in polar waters to increase safety, or an additional theme regarding polar water survival can be added to the existing STCW basic safety training course.