Effective fire safety measures are critical for maintaining security on ships and protecting lives at sea. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting is designed to equip participants with specialised skills and knowledge required to prevent, control, and extinguish fires onboard vessels. OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting focuses on both theoretical understanding and practical techniques, ensuring participants are prepared to respond confidently in emergency situations.
Throughout the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting, participants will explore the unique challenges posed by fire hazards in maritime environments. They will gain insight into fire prevention strategies, fire detection systems, and the use of firefighting equipment specific to shipboard settings. Emphasis is placed on developing rapid response skills, understanding fire behaviour, and practising safe evacuation procedures tailored to the constraints of a ship.
Participants will also become familiar with relevant international regulations and standards, such as those outlined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), ensuring compliance with global safety requirements. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting promotes teamwork and effective communication during emergencies, vital for coordinated firefighting efforts onboard.
By completing OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting, participants will enhance their ability to protect crew, passengers, and cargo, contributing to safer maritime operations. The knowledge and skills gained are invaluable for those working in the shipping industry, including crew members, safety officers, and maritime safety professionals seeking to strengthen their fire safety competencies.
All About OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting
Course Overview
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting is a specialized training program designed to equip maritime professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills to effectively prevent, control, and respond to fire emergencies on board ships. Shipboard fires present unique challenges due to confined spaces, limited escape routes, and the presence of hazardous materials. This diploma provides participants with a deep understanding of fire behavior at sea, modern firefighting techniques, and international maritime safety regulations.
Throughout the course, learners will explore the principles of fire science, shipboard fire detection systems, and firefighting equipment operations. Practical sessions are integrated with theoretical knowledge to ensure participants gain hands-on experience in handling firefighting gear, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and fixed fire suppression systems. Emphasis is placed on coordinated team responses, damage control, and effective decision-making during high-pressure scenarios.
The program also covers essential safety procedures, including hot work precautions, evacuation planning, compartmentalization, and the maintenance of fire control plans. Participants will develop the competence to lead and support firefighting operations, conduct drills, and manage fire emergencies in compliance with international standards such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and IMO (International Maritime Organization) requirements.
By completing this diploma, learners will be prepared to take on critical roles in ensuring the safety of shipboard operations. It is particularly valuable for seafarers, marine engineers, deck officers, safety supervisors, and anyone responsible for emergency preparedness at sea. Graduates of this program will enhance their professional credentials while contributing to safer maritime operations and stronger emergency response readiness.
Study Units
- Introduction to Shipboard Firefighting and Fire Safety Principles (3 hours)
- Fire Science and Behaviour in Maritime Environments (4 hours)
- Fire Prevention and Detection Systems on Ships (4 hours)
- Firefighting Equipment and Personal Protective Gear (5 hours)
- Firefighting Techniques and Suppression Methods (5 hours)
- Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures (3 hours)
- Handling Hazardous Materials and Fire Risks on Board (3 hours)
- International Maritime Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance (3 hours)
Educational Background: Candidates should have at least a secondary school qualification (Matric/O-Level or equivalent). However, individuals with higher education or professional maritime training will benefit more from the course.
Professional Experience: Prior experience in the maritime industry, shipping operations, offshore platforms, or related safety roles is desirable but not mandatory. Fresh learners with an interest in maritime safety may also apply.
Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to enroll in the program.
Language Proficiency: A good understanding of English is required, as the course materials, instructions, and assessments are delivered in English.
Physical Fitness: Since shipboard firefighting involves practical training and emergency drills, candidates should be physically fit and medically cleared to handle physically demanding activities.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Shipboard Firefighting is designed for individuals seeking to develop or enhance their careers in the maritime and offshore industries, with a specialized focus on firefighting, safety, and emergency response at sea. This program is suitable for:
- Seafarers and Crew Members – Personnel working on cargo vessels, tankers, passenger ships, or offshore platforms who require advanced firefighting and safety training to meet international standards.
- Deck and Engine Officers – Ship officers responsible for operations, compliance, and emergency preparedness, who must lead firefighting teams and ensure shipboard safety.
- Ship Safety and Compliance Officers – Professionals managing safety documentation, fire control plans, and emergency drills to maintain compliance with SOLAS and IMO regulations.
- Port and Dock Workers – Individuals employed in shipyards, ports, and docking facilities where firefighting and shipboard safety knowledge is critical.
- New Entrants to the Maritime Sector – Students, trainees, or aspiring maritime professionals looking to improve their employability with essential firefighting and emergency preparedness skills.
- Safety Supervisors and Emergency Response Teams – Personnel responsible for organizing safety drills, enforcing fire prevention measures, and coordinating accident or fire response operations.
This diploma is valuable for both beginners entering the maritime industry and experienced professionals who wish to upgrade their skills and strengthen their ability to handle shipboard fire emergencies effectively.y management, and emergency response expertise.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this diploma, learners will be able to:
- Understand Fire Behavior at Sea – Explain the principles of fire science, including causes, classes of fire, and the unique behavior of fires in confined shipboard environments.
- Operate Firefighting Equipment – Safely handle shipboard firefighting systems, including fire hoses, portable extinguishers, fixed suppression systems, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Implement Fire Prevention Measures – Apply strategies to reduce fire risks during ship operations, maintenance, and hot work activities.
- Conduct Shipboard Fire Drills – Organize, participate in, and evaluate realistic firefighting and evacuation drills in compliance with SOLAS and IMO requirements.
- Lead Emergency Response – Demonstrate teamwork, communication, and leadership skills in coordinating firefighting teams and directing crew actions during emergencies.
- Apply Damage Control Techniques – Manage fire containment, compartmentalization, and smoke control to minimize damage and safeguard lives on board.
- Ensure Regulatory Compliance – Interpret and apply international maritime safety regulations related to shipboard firefighting and emergency preparedness.
- Promote Safety Culture at Sea – Foster awareness and responsibility among crew members to maintain continuous readiness and a strong safety culture on board ships.
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