An Introduction to Ship Stability
Background
In 1995 the International Maritime Organization introduced the revised Standards for Training Certification and Watchkeeping generally referred to as STCW95. Contained within the requirements for the certification of deck officers is an entry-level certificate as a Watchkeeping Mate. This is usually the certificate required to be held by an officer wishing to serve as a third or second mate on most foreign-going vessels. In many countries it will also provide the standard for a First Mates certificate on coastal vessels
For the new officer, having completed his or her training as a seaman, apprentice or cadet, the first examinations for professional qualifications he or she will face are a series of competency examinations which will include one on ship stability.
Course overview
An Introduction to Ship Stability is available as an online course or in a delivered classroom format, or a combination of each. It is geared to fully meeting the STCW95 stability standards for a watchkeeper. It was specifically developed to meet the Transport Canada requirements for the 150-tonne Master certificate, the Fishing Master third class certificate, and the Master 500-tonne near coastal certificate. It will also act as a reference work for those studying for more advanced ship stability examinations.
The online program includes study assignments along with the opportunity to discuss the materials with an instructor, and a detailed series of stability exercises designed to develop the necessary skills required by the mariner to maintain his or her ship in a safe, stable condition.
There are sample examinations at the end of each lesson with a practice final examination at the end of the course. These should be completed faithfully by the student, without the aid of textbook or notes. This will complete the necessary preparation to write most government stability examinations at the watchkeeper level with every expectation of success.
Captain R.C.E.Kitching January/08 Nanaimo BC