The MCA have issued a new Marine Information Note (MIN405 (M+F)) that clarifies what training is acceptable for Masters and all Deck Officers of UK flagged vessels which have ECDIS as their primary means of navigation. The document states categorically the requirement to complete both generic and equipment specific ECDIS training and goes further by stating that ‘trickle down’ training with regard to equipment specific training is not acceptable.
Mark Broster, Managing Director of ECDIS Ltd says,
“This is excellent news as the MCA have provided UK Mariners with the clarification they seek with regard to ECDIS training. As a training provider we pride ourselves on delivering the very best ECDIS training available and it is commendable to see that the MCA are upholding those standards by insisting on proper training. We know only too well the difficulty that ship-owners, managers and mariners are having in making sense of the plethora of legislation regarding ECDIS, and this document goes a long way in clarifying the position for UK flagged vessels.”
Malcolm Instone, Director of Operations & Standards of ECDIS Ltd continues,
“This is not the light at the end of the tunnel for shipping companies, but the headlight of the oncoming train. Shipping companies must now plan their training strategy to incorporate generic and equipment specific ECDIS training for their crews. This is quite a challenge, but we are here to help them tackle the problem head on and facilitate that end. Information about ECDIS regulations, including MIN405 is also available at www.ECDISregs.com to aid the mariner navigate the legislation and requirements.”
Ends
ECDIS Ltd
ECDIS Ltd provide navigation training, purchasing, charting and consultation in Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) and the military equivalent (WECDIS, ECDIS-N). They specialise in providing Flag State approved IMO model ECDIS courses to be taught on any IMO accredited ECDIS. Static training is delivered in their Southampton Training Centre and portable training can be conducted in a location of the customer’s choosing, even onboard if facilities can support it. ECDIS Ltd trainers are highly experienced in the practical use of ECDIS, and combined have taught over 1000 mariners. Their static ECDIS training is endorsed and accredited by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, whilst their portable training solution is approved by Det Norske Veritas.
For further information:
Malcolm Instone
Director of Operations & Standards
ECDIS Ltd
First Floor
Forum 3 Parkway
Solent Business Park
Whiteley
Fareham
PO15 7FH
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1489 559677
Email: instone@ecdis.org
Web: www.ecdis.org
