Maritime DP training accredited again

Maritime training is internationally highly standardized and regulated. Training must meet certain criteria to meet qualifications of governing bodies such as Nautical Institute in the case of DP training. Therefore meeting qualifications of STCW is not enough, but certain training courses must be audited separately.

Once simulation with all its associated equipment was renewed this year, we had the tools to seek for renewal of accreditation

SAMK has a history with DP training. Once simulation with all its associated equipment was renewed this year, we had the tools to seek for renewal of accreditation from Nautical Institute with brand new state-of-the-art equipment.

Nautical Institute's main office is located in London, UK. They sent two auditors this summer to ensure SAMK compliance with Nautical Institute training requirements, and that training is a functional package from all aspects, including physical learning environment, teaching methods, simulation and so on. Even adjustability of class room chairs and functionality of simulation floor air conditioning was checked. Recently granted accreditation remains valid for three years.

- We aim to audit a training, that allows a successful candidate to operate vessel DP equipment, says Janne Lahtinen. Lahtinen works in SAMK as part time lecturer on top of his work as a senior DP operator on a pipe layer. At this time his vessel is constructing a subsea pipeline in more than 2000m water depth.

- Entire English language training package in totally renewed, says Tero Virtanen from Winnova (local vocational educator), who formed a duo with Lahtinen in the audit process. For example all simulation exercises were constructed together.

DP Training is divided in two parts. Four day basic course is followed by 30-day-trainee-period on a DP vessel. Entry requirement to the course is attendance on a STCW training program in recognized nautical school, such as SAMK Maritime. Simulator course after that takes another four days followed by 180 days of guided on board training on a DP vessel.

- Available vessels for trainee positions are hard to find at this time, but enthusiastic candidates for courses are not hard to find, as DP operators work is challenging, exciting and also reasonably well paid, says Lahtinen. SAMK approaches maritime students by offering a reasonably priced training for those interested.

Vasemmalta oikealle | From left the accreditation team: Janne Lahtinen, Juha Palola, Tero Virtanen & Ilari Rainio.

Next DP training course is scheduled to end of November. Lahtinen acts as training centre responsible instructor. Other instructors are Ilari Rainio, Juha Palola and Tatu Peussa, all experienced offshore workers and qualified DP operators.