The harsh and remote Arctic and Antarctic environments pose particular challenges for seafarers: low temperatures, poor visibility, lack of complete hydrographic services and reduced satellite coverage all make operating at the poles high risk.

In recognition of this, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) introduce a new Polar Code, which came into force on 1 January 2017. The Code covers the full range of design, construction, equipment, operational, training, search and rescue and environmental protection relevant to ships operating in the waters surrounding the two poles.

In line with the Code’s stipulations, masters, chief mates and officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in polar waters must have a certificate in basic training for ships operating in polar waters.

In response, AMC Search has introduced a new course accredited by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA): Basic Training for Ships Operating in Polar Waters.

“This brand new course was created by AMC Search to help participants gain the AMSA-accredited certificate needed to operate in the Arctic and Antarctic," AMC Search CEO, Dean Cook, said.

“We look forward to welcoming our first cohorts of trainees and helping them qualify to operate vessels in these tough environments.”

The three-day course will be scheduled for a date in 2017 and participants must already have a current AMSA recognised Certificate of Competency as a Deck Watchkeeper, Chief Mate or Master.

More information is available from AMC Search.

Published on: 07 Jun 2017