On June 3-6, an international Baltic Sea deep sea pilot course was successfully conducted at the EMERA Simulator Center. The training is aimed at harmonizing and standardizing deep sea pilots in the Baltic Sea region, to ensure that pilots operating in mentioned region are highly qualified.
By completing the training program, the participants will gain in-depth knowledge and the necessary skills for efficient and safe navigation in the Baltic Sea. The course covers the preparation of travel plans and the setting of safety parameters on an electronic map, effective communication both on the bridge, with other ships and shore stations, and knowledge of local and international regulations. In addition, emergency response procedures and search and rescue operations are practiced on the simulator.
The most important areas of the training are:
Route planning:
- Mastering the main routes of the Baltic Sea.
- Understanding the limitations of entrances and bottlenecks.
- Knowledge of traffic systems such as traffic separation schemes (TSS) and vessel reporting systems.
- Skillful handling of pilotage procedures and port operations in the Baltic Sea.
Communication coordination:
- Developing effective communication skills, including improving language skills.
- Advanced training in Bridge Resource Management (BRM).
- Knowledge of reporting obligations and data retention requirements.
Environmental awareness:
- Understanding hazardous or polluting goods regulations.
- Awareness of the designation of the Baltic Sea as a particularly sensitive marine area (PSSA).
- Knowledge of anti-pollution organizations in the Baltic countries.
Emergency response:
- Knowledge of Maritime Safety Information (MSI) and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
- Understanding of Maritime Assistance Service (MAS) and emergency procedures.
Personal characteristics:
- Improved interpersonal skills and effective communication.
- Emphasis on responsibility and reliability in professional conduct.
The prerequisite for participating in the course is at least six years of seafaring experience as a captain or pilot, higher maritime education and knowledge of navigation devices such as ARPA and ECDIS. After the course, participants have to pass an exam at the Transport Administration, upon successful completion of which a "Red Card" is issued, which is recognized by all countries bordering the Baltic Sea.
Conducting such a course represents an important step forward in order to ensure the best international preparation of Baltic sea pilots. EMERA is proud to have played an important role in this important undertaking, contributing to the safety and efficiency of maritime operations in the Baltic Sea region.