Work and Travel Overseas: STCW Courses Overview

Introduction

• Welcome to the episode on STCW courses.
• Topics covered:
  • What is STCW?
  • How to obtain it.
  • Who needs it?
  • Recommended places for courses.
• Personal sharing of recent course experiences.

Importance of Engagement

• Appreciation for new and existing members.
• Encouragement to ask questions and share experiences to help others.
• Reminder to subscribe and turn on notifications for new content.

Step Number Six of the Seven-Step Process

• Focus on requirements to become a cruise ship crew member.

STCW Courses Overview

• Cost and Duration:
  • Example: Recent STCW course cost 8,620 ZAR over 9 days.
  • Costs vary depending on the company.

What is STCW?

• STCW: Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers.
• Set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a UN agency.
• Ensures crew members are adequately trained for emergencies.

Who Needs STCW?

• Required for all cruise ship and yard personnel, regardless of position or rank.
• Basic courses are mandatory, additional courses may depend on rank.

Can STCW Courses be Done Online?

• Online learning is available but varies by company.
• Some companies offer courses on board at no cost, reducing personal expense.
• Recommendation: Do not start STCW courses before securing a job offer.

Basic STCW Courses

1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST):

   • Training for abandoning ship, survival techniques at sea.
   • Covers food sourcing and first aid for the first 48 hours.

2. Fire Fighting and Prevention (FPF):

   • Training on types of fires, causes, and extinguishing techniques.
   • Real-life fire training experience included.

3. Elementary First Aid (EFA):

   • Basic first aid for common illnesses and injuries until professional help arrives.

4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR):

   • Awareness of safety procedures, pollution prevention, and effective team interaction.
   • Understands hierarchy and enhances communication skills.

Additional STCW Courses

• Courses like Crowd Management and Security Awareness are available but are additional costs beyond the basic courses.

Recommended STCW Course Locations (South Africa)

• Duran and Cape Town are suggested for STCW courses.
• Recommended company: STCA (search online for booking details).
• Positive experience with instructors and training facilities highlighted.

Conclusion

• Hope this information adds value and clarifies STCW course details.
• Closing remarks and sign off.