Online simulation training specialist Safebridge will launch a new training course for Kelvin Hughes MantaDigital Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS).
Kelvin Hughes Marine Systems, a supplier of ships’ bridge systems, has appointed Safebridge and its sister company MSG MarineServe GmbH as authorized training providers for Kelvin Hughes ECDIS products. The new course is available online through the Safebridge cloud-based Internet infrastructure, on-board or as classroom-based training through the ECDIS Training Consortium (ETC) Network.
The Safebridge online ECDIS training course includes guided lessons, open freeplay and a competency test. Safebridge said its approach gives students the ability to practice and gain confidence in a realistic training environment using the actual ECDIS manufacturer’s software.
“The Safebridge online courses provide a fast, easy and affordable training platform to comply with the IMO requirement for familiarization with the specific ECDIS model installed on the ship,” said Safebridge Managing Director Ulf Steden. “Before officers move to a new ship, they can become quickly familiar with the ship’s ECDIS without the expense of attending a classroom or simulator course at a training center.”
Steden said Safebridge is the only training provider with online courses for nearly all ECDIS manufacturers. In addition to Kelvin Hughes, Safebridge offers similar type-specific ECDIS operator courses for Sperry Marine, Transas, Seven Cs, JRC, ChartWorld, Imtech, SAM Electronics, Simrad, Raytheon Anschütz, Consilium, Martek and Maris.
Steden noted that as the IMO ECDIS carriage requirements come into force, there will be a strong demand for type-specific training to meet the new regulations. Currently ECDIS is mandatory for all newbuildings. On July 1, 2015, all tankers over 3,000 gross tons must meet the ECDIS carriage requirements.
“Because our online course offerings are infinitely flexible and scalable, it will be easy for us to meet the surge of demand as the deadlines for compliance grow nearer,” he said. “There is no practical limit to the number of students who can simultaneously take any Safebridge online course.”
