FPFF Course Guide – Refresher Training for Seafarers
- 1. What is the FPFF Course?
- 2. Why FPFF Refresher Training is Important?
- 3. FPFF Course Duration and Eligibility
- 4. FPFF Refresher Course Syllabus and Training Modules
- 5. How Much Does the FPFF Refresher Cost in India?
- 6. Career Advantages of Renewing FPFF Certification
- 7. Conclusion
- 8. Key Takeaways
- 9. FAQs Regarding FPFF Refresher Course
- 10. Related Posts
FPFF, also known as Fire Prevention and Firefighting training, is a crucial training that seafarers need to get so that they will be qualified for STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). Seafarers learn how to prevent, manage, and fight fires aboard a ship through this training. FPFF refresher training regularly will maintain the high level of safety so that the seafarers are effective with the safety procedures.
In this blog, we have covered importance of the FPFF course, the duration and eligibility of the FPFF course, along with how ATI ONGC helps seafarers to attain the essential skills and knowledge to make a successful career!
What is the FPFF Course?
The FPFF (Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting) course is an effective training program that comes under STCW Basic Safety Training. The course provides the knowledge of fire prevention and recognition of fire hazards, equips you with the skills to suppress and extinguish fires with the proper use of firefighting equipment, and trains you with the awareness of emergency response procedures to safeguard the ship and crew.
It is a compulsory training for all seafarers for safety certification and is widely accepted as a standard course for the STCW Basic Safety Training model.
Why FPFF Refresher Training is Important?
Refresher training must be taken to renew the FPFF certificate every five years, as per global maritime laws. Here’s why it is important:
-
STCW requires refresher/re-validation training every 5 years to ensure skills don’t become rusty.
-
Offers seafarers regular updates on new safety procedures and firefighting techniques.
-
Ensures crew competency during real emergency scenarios, which can save lives and property.
-
Helps maintain seafarer safety as per DG Shipping and International maritime regulations.
-
Ensures an on-board culture of continuous learning and safety vigilance.
FPFF Course Duration and Eligibility
The FPFF course is ideal for those who wish to take up a career in the maritime or offshore sectors. Below is the eligibility and duration of the course:
Eligibility: Seafarers who possess a valid previous FPFF certificate are eligible to attend.
Duration: Usually lasts 1–2 days of intensive, practical training.
Medical Fitness: Applicants should be healthy, as per DG Shipping regulations.
Sea Service Requirements: There may be a requirement for a minimum sea service according to the guidelines of the training provider.
FPFF Refresher Course Syllabus and Training Modules
Theory and practical firefighting drills are both covered in the syllabus to ensure complete learning. Some of the major FPFF refresher training modules are:
-
Fire prevention systems and hazard detection for minimizing risks on board.
-
Overview of modern firefighting systems and detection devices.
-
Maintenance and usage of breathing apparatus.
-
Techniques for fighting fires in confined and enclosed spaces.
-
Fire incident coordination and communication during emergency situations.
-
Practical exercises of actual fire emergencies for reinforcement of skills.
How Much Does the FPFF Refresher Cost in India?
The cost of the course in India typically ranges from ₹6000 to ₹15,000, depending on the location and the training provider. Also, the fees typically include training material, practical exercises, and certification charges.
It can be paid by early bird discounts or corporate packages. And, upon successful completion, seafarers are issued an FPFF certificate renewal for five years, which is accepted by DG Shipping.
Career Advantages of Renewing FPFF Certification
Renewing your FPFF certification keeps you compliant with maritime safety requirements and improves your appeal as an employment option to offshore and shipping industries, with implied safety and emergency preparedness skills training updates. Here are the career advantages of renewing FPFF certification:
You effectively guarantee the continuing reassurance that your training, certifications, and credentials are up-to-date and valid, thus making you eligible to be deployed or assigned to international maritime operations in a work capacity.
This also indicates your dedication to the safety culture and the advancement of your profession.
Helps in promotion or return to onboard duty and improves your professional credibility and offshore employment preparedness.
Guarantees adherence to maritime safety legislation, further enhancing general career development.
Conclusion
The FPFF refreshment course is much more than just a baseline certification obligation. It is a measure that initiates actions intended to ensure that seafarers are trained, competent, and confident when it comes to dealing with fire situations onboard ships. Keeping up to date with refresher training leads to a safer marine environment, satisfying the international fire safety compliance and maritime firefighting readiness requirements.
We, at ATI ONGC, offer a FPFF refreshment course for fire personnel, designed to update them on the latest fire safety techniques, equipment handling, and emergency response protocols.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Refresher training for FPFF is required every 5 years for certificate renewal.
- ✓ Theory is blended with practical firefighting exercises in the course.
- ✓ Eligibility involves a valid existing FPFF certificate and medical fitness.
- ✓ Course duration is generally 1 or 2 days.
- ✓ Fees are different, but in India usually between ₹6,000 and ₹15,000.
- ✓ Re-certification of FPFF aids career development and safety compliance.
- ✓ The course enhances a strong culture of safety on board ships.
FAQs Regarding FPFF Refresher Course
What is the validity of the FPFF certificate?
The FPFF certificate is valid for a period of five years from the date of issue.
How often should a seafarer renew the FPFF course?
Seafarers are required to maintain their certification by validating the FPFF course every five years.
Is refresher training mandatory for every seafarer under the FPFF program?
All FPFF certificates are subject to renewal training in accordance with the STCW regulations and the DG Shipping directive.
How long is the FPFF refresher course?
This is a 1 to 2-day process depending on the actual training provider.
Is the FPFF refresher course available online?
Due to practical fire-fighting demonstrations in the refresher course, physical presence is encouraged.
What are the requirements for admission to a refresher course?
Previous FPFF certificate and medical fitness are mandatory.
How can I verify if an FPFF institute is DG Shipping approved?
Verify by visiting the official website of DG Shipping or approaching regional maritime authorities for lists of approved institutes.
What happens if I don’t renew my FPFF certification?
Your certificate will lapse, keeping you from serving onboard until you undergo refresher training.
Is the refresher course different from the initial FPFF training?
Yes, the refresher concentrates on refreshing the current skills and knowledge, and new safety procedures.
Does the FPFF refresher include practical firefighting drills?
Yes, the practical firefighting drills that come with the refresher are a mandatory aspect for practicing competency.
