Did you know that every year, hundreds of maritime accidents occur worldwide, endangering the lives of seafarers? It is therefore critical to have a thorough understanding of safety protocols and emergency procedures before embarking on a voyage. That's where the Basic Safety Training course comes in, designed to equip seafarers with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to emergencies effectively.

What is Basic Safety Training?

The Basic Safety Training (BST) course is a mandatory course for seafarers, as per the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines. The course aims to provide seafarers with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to deal with emergencies that may arise while working on board a ship. The course is designed to comply with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

The Basic Safety Training course consists of four components:

1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

The Personal Survival Techniques module covers basic sea survival techniques and equipment, including how to wear and use personal flotation devices (PFDs), life rafts, and lifeboats. It also includes training on how to survive in cold water and how to abandon ship.

2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)

The Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting module covers the fundamentals of fire safety, including how to prevent fires on board a ship, how to use firefighting equipment, and how to fight fires using different techniques.

3. Elementary First Aid (EFA)

The Elementary First Aid module provides basic first-aid training for seafarers. This includes CPR, controlling bleeding, treating burns, fractures, and other injuries that may occur on board a ship.

4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)

The Personal Safety and Social Responsibility module covers the importance of maintaining personal hygiene, keeping the ship clean, and maintaining good relationships with other crew members. It also covers the importance of being aware of the environmental impact of the ship's operations.

Why is Basic Safety Training Important for Seafarers?

The Basic Safety Training course is mandatory for all seafarers and is critical in ensuring the safety of crew members on board a ship. The course equips seafarers with the knowledge and skills to handle emergencies that may arise while working on board a ship. It also helps seafarers to understand the importance of following safety protocols and procedures and maintaining a safe working environment.

Moreover, the Basic Safety Training course is an essential requirement for seafarers seeking employment in the maritime industry. Most shipping companies require their employees to complete the Basic Safety Training course before being employed on board a ship. Additionally, the course is a prerequisite for obtaining a Certificate of Competency (CoC), which is a mandatory requirement for seafarers.

How to Enroll in a Basic Safety Training Course?

Seafarers can enroll in Basic Safety Training courses through accredited maritime training institutions worldwide. Some institutions offer online shipping courses, which can be more accessible and convenient for seafarers who may not have access to physical training centers.
Please make sure to read our Learning section to enrol for online courses.

When enrolling in a Basic Safety Training course, seafarers should ensure that the training institution is accredited by the appropriate maritime authorities. The training course should also be in compliance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

Other Safety Common Practices

There are several common practices in the maritime industry regarding Basic Safety Training for seafarers. One of the most important practices is regular safety drills and exercises to ensure that the crew is prepared to handle emergencies effectively. Another common practice is the use of safety equipment such as life jackets, helmets, and safety harnesses, among others, to minimize the risk of injury or loss of life in the event of an accident. Additionally, there are regulations and guidelines set by international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and national regulatory bodies that dictate safety protocols, training requirements, and safety standards that must be adhered to by all seafarers and shipping companies.