More seafarers will have the opportunity to train for the growing number of electric-propelled vessels taking to the water, under key benchmarks put out for consultation by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Draft criteria have been published by the MCA today as the basis for new courses for maritime training providers, including minimum learning requirements for safety and technical skills, and each course must be submitted to the MCA for approval before being opened to trainees.
The document is the result of close work between the MCA and training providers, businesses and industry bodies, such as the Workboat Association.
MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob said:
It is vital for seafarers' skills to keep pace with technological advances, including electric propulsion, which is expanding strongly among small to medium-size vessels such as ferries, workboats and commercial yachts.
These courses based on the new criteria will form a springboard for highly skilled seafarers to develop their careers and contribute to the UK's successful maritime industry.
The draft course requirements are in two parts: the first, for all crew, would cover general topics such as safety and basic procedures, including fire-suppression arrangements.
The second, for technical crew, would focus on key elements such as battery management and control, and maintenance and repair.
The final version of the criteria for courses, which are not mandatory for seafarers, will be published once the consultation feedback has been analysed.
The four-week consultation launched on 16 September with emails sent out to stakeholders. The deadline is 20 October.
