Product-specific onboard ECDIS training launched

In order to replace paper charts, ECDIS systems must fulfil considerable technical requirements laid down in the International Maritime Organization ECDIS Performance Standards. New requirements for competence and training have been amended in the STCW convention. As well as including approved ECDIS simulator training, the standard opens up wider delivery sources of training, including onboard instruction.

To meet the requirements, the chart data in use must be official electronic chart systems (ENCs) where these are available, while the graphic display on the screen must meet the equipment-independent specification. The equipment must also support the full range of navigational functions performed on traditional paper charts.

Approved by a number of flag states, Seagull’s existing ECDIS onboard training course includes training in the use of ECDIS, chart projections, chart accuracy, chart types, chart datum, chart updating, sensor inputs and control, alarm and warning strategies, Radar and ARPA information on ECDIS, and route planning.

Under the agreement, Seagull will re-design the MARIS ECDIS900 Application Trainer to be included in the Seagull library of CBT-modules as ‘product specific training’ to meet latest revisions to STCW, working on Seagull’s existing CBT-based training administrator.

Seagull managing director Roger Ringstad said that the need for product-specific ECDIS training was becoming clear. “Used by qualified navigators these systems increase the safety of navigation. However in the hands of unqualified operators they may contribute to misunderstandings and even accidents. Understanding the philosophy, limitations and features of ECDIS is a must.”

ECDIS onboard training was both effective and cost saving, he said, since the seafarer was already in situ and did not incur any travel or accommodation expenses. At the same time the candidate would be trained in the use of the specific ECDIS system and equipment configuration onboard.

Shore-based ECDIS facilities can hardly offer the type of product-specific training that key flag states are increasingly seeking, because there are too many different ECDIS makers and an unlimited number of software versions and system configurations. ECDIS training has reached a crossroads and ship owners need to be ready for compulsory ECDIS. We are preparing to take our generic ECDIS training package forward so that it can be product-specific, in order to speed up the ability of ship owners to meet what will become statutory obligations.”

MARIS deputy chief executive (Corporate) Steinar Gundersen said: “As has been the case in other forms of training for some time, the future of ECDIS training is onboard ship. As the first in the world to offer product-specific ECDIS training through Seagull, we will meet the IMO model course 1.27 and be certified to replace less efficient training ashore.”

The training system, which will be available via an annual subscription per ship and upgraded for as long as the subscription is held, will be based on self-tuition by navigating officers while onboard under supervision by the ship’s master or an approved assessor and supported by an ECDIS onboard workbook.

The ship’s master or the approved assessor will confirm that the candidate has performed satisfactorily, endorse the course training records and send them to the Seagull training centre for assessment.

There, an instructor will verify that a complete set of documents has been received and that all training records and written responses to the workbook meet the required minimum standard, on completion of which the instructor will issue and submit to the vessel a course certificate.