Flag State Clarifies ECDIS Training Requirements

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.’