Training requirements for NOR/NIS registered vessels: New course applies for all battery types

Trainor launches course to meet the training requirements for NOR / NIS registered vessels. – The newly launched course, "Maritime Battery Systems onboard ships" is suitable for all battery systems, says Nikolai Øvrevold in Trainor. He estimates that all machine and electrical personnel will need training, and says the demand is great after the Norwegian Maritime Directorate earlier this year sent out a circular with guidance on training.

- A training requirement

In a circular of 26 January 2022, the Norwegian Maritime Directorate provides clear guidance on training requirements for maritime battery systems onboard Norwegian ships. The background is that the Qualifications Regulations do not set specific competence requirements related to the introduction of new technology on board. The Norwegian Maritime Directorate's circular «is based on the requirement for training given in Regulation 1 January 2005 no. 8 on working environment, safety and health for those who have their work on board ships (ASH regulations) $ 2-6» (Norwegian Maritime Directorate's circular).

- This means that we must interpret it as a requirement, says Instructor and battery expert Ole Michael Holth in Trainor. He points out that the AHS regulations require that everyone who works on board must have documented training in relevant systems, based on what tasks they have.

- Maritime battery systems are being introduced on more and more ships, and when the Norwegian Maritime Directorate has written a separate guide on it, it is because it is specifically missing in the regulations, Ole Michael explains.

«Whoever is to operate, perform inspection or maintenance of maritime battery systems in use on board Norwegian ships shall have

• training adapted to function or work tasks

• necessary practical training in addition to the theoretical training

• regular maintenance of expertise. “

(Norwegian Maritime Directorate, 26.01.2022)

Courses adapted to the target group

- Depending on what tasks you have in your job, our courses meet the training requirements, Nikolai Øvrevold explains. The first course that is now being launched is a 2-day course aimed at those who are to operate, perform inspections or maintain maritime battery systems on board vessels. A broader eLearning course is also underway, which is relevant for a broader target group.

Right competence saves lives

In recent years, we have seen several cases of fire and explosions related to batteries on board ships, both nationally and internationally. Events that have cost lives and where great material values are lost.

- Batteries in themselves have a high level of safety, Ole Michael explains, and says that most of the accidents happen where people are involved, for example to perform maintenance work.

- It is crucial that everyone performing such tasks holds enough competence in the battery module on board, how they are to be maintained, hazards, hazard prevention and how a potential fire can be extinguished. The right skills can simply save lives, he concludes.

Read more about the course here.