IMO STCW 2010 Regulations - Mandatory Minimum Training in Advanced Fire Fighting
Seafarers are required to meet the requirements of the STCW Code 1978, as amended set out in section A-VI/3 of the STCW Code to ensure knowledge and techniques required for fighting fire with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and command and control.
With this endorsement and training, mariners will be able to develop a realistic shipboard fire prevention program, effectively organize fire teams and respond to fires aboard a ship.
This endorsement is valid for 5 years and must provide evidence of having competencies by successfully completing a refresher training every 5 years, as described in the STCW Code 1978, as amended, Section VI-3, table A-VI/3.
STCW Code Section A-VI/3 Chapter V (STCW 2010 Res 2)
Mandatory Minimum Training in Advanced Fire Fighting
Standard of Competence
- Seafarers designated to control fire-fighting operations shall have successfully completed advanced training in techniques for fighting fire, with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and command, and shall be required to demonstrate competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/3.
- The level of knowledge and understanding of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-VI/3 shall be sufficient for the effective control of fire-fighting operations on board ship*.
- Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall take account of the guidance given in part B of this Code.
- Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-VI/3.
- Seafarers qualified in accordance with paragraph 4 in Advanced Fire Fighting shall be required, every five years, to provide evidence of having maintained the required standards of competence to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-VI/3.
- Parties may accept onboard training and experience for maintaining the required standard of competence of table A-VI/3, in the following areas:
- Control fire-fighting operations aboard ships;
- fire-fighting procedures at sea and in port, with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and command;
- communication and coordination during fire-fighting operations;
- ventilation control, including smoke extraction;
- control of fuel and Electrical systems;
- fire-fighting process hazards (dry distillation, chemical reactions, boiler uptake, fires);
- fire precautions and hazards associated with the storage and handling of materials;
- management and control of injured persons; and
- procedures for coordination with shore-based fire fighters.
- Control fire-fighting operations aboard ships;
*The relevant IMO Model Course(s) may be of assistance in the preparation of courses.
STCW Table A-VI/3 of Chapter VI (STCW 2010 Res 2)
Specification of minimum standard of competence in advanced fire fighting
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MUST READ:
- STCW Certificate Requirements According to Duties Performed Onboard
- What is STCW? - An Introduction
- STCW Fire Fighting Courses - IMO Model Courses
- STCW Basic Training Refresher Online
STCW Regulation V/2 of Chapter V (STCW 2010 Res 1)
Mandatory Minimum Training in Advanced Fire Fighting
- Seafarers designated to control fire-fighting operations shall have successfully completed advanced training in techniques for fighting fire, with particular emphasis on organization, tactics and command, in accordance with the provisions of section A-VI/3, paragraphs 1 to 4 of the STCW Code and shall meet the standard of competence specified therein.
- Where training in advanced fire fighting is not included in the qualifications for the certificate to be issued, a certificate of proficiency shall be issued indicating that the holder has attended a course of training in advanced fire fighting.
Disclaimer: For general information purpose only - please check with IMO STCW Convention for the latest requirements and accurate info
LAST UPDATED ON Aug 25, 2025