The STCW Basic Safety Training is the foundational course for anyone pursuing a career at sea. Whether you’re aiming to work on commercial vessels, cruise ships, superyachts, or offshore installations, this training is an essential requirement to ensure you’re fully prepared for life at sea.

At Seascope Maritime Training, we pride ourselves on delivering MCA-approved STCW courses that equip seafarers with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle emergencies, work safely, and protect both themselves and their crewmates.

If you’re considering enrolling in the STCW Basic Safety Training but are unsure what it entails, this guide breaks down each module and what you can expect during your training.

What Is the STCW Basic Safety Training?

The Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is an international convention that sets the minimum qualification standards for crew members on commercial seagoing vessels.

The STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), also known as the STCW 95/2010, is a five-module course designed to provide the essential safety skills and knowledge that every seafarer must have before heading out to sea.

Course Duration: Typically completed over 5 days
Who Needs It? All seafarers, including those working on cruise ships, commercial vessels, and superyachts

The 5 Key Modules of STCW Basic Safety Training

1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

Objective: To teach trainees survival skills in case of ship abandonment or emergencies at sea.

Key Learning Areas:

. Understanding life-saving appliances and equipment

. Donning lifejackets and immersion suits correctly

. Techniques for abandoning ship safely

. Survival techniques in the water

. Righting an overturned life raft

. Managing hypothermia and exposure risks

Practical Element:
Trainees will participate in pool-based drills, including life raft boarding, swimming in survival suits, and practicing rescue techniques. This hands-on experience is essential for building confidence in real-life situations.

2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)

Objective: To develop the skills needed to prevent fires on board and respond effectively in case of an outbreak.

Key Learning Areas:

Fire theory: Understanding how fires start, spread, and can be extinguished

. Types of firefighting equipment and their uses

. Fire prevention techniques

. Firefighting tactics in enclosed spaces

. The importance of teamwork during fire emergencies

Practical Element:
Participants will engage in live fire scenarios, don breathing apparatus, and practice extinguishing fires using hoses and extinguishers. The hands-on training takes place in controlled environments to ensure safety while replicating real conditions.

3. Elementary First Aid (EFA)

Objective: To equip seafarers with the knowledge and skills to provide basic first aid in emergencies.

Key Learning Areas:

. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) techniques

. Managing bleeding, burns, and shock

. Dealing with fractures, sprains, and head injuries

. How to handle unconscious casualties

. Safe use of bandages, slings, and other medical equipment

Practical Element:
Students will practice essential first aid skills, including CPR on manikins, bandaging techniques, and how to place casualties in the recovery position. The training ensures that all participants are prepared to handle medical emergencies until professional help arrives.

4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)

Objective: To raise awareness of safety protocols and the importance of teamwork and social responsibility on board.

Key Learning Areas:

. Understanding shipboard hierarchies and roles

. Following safe working practices to reduce risks

. Effective communication and teamwork during emergencies

. Awareness of pollution prevention and environmental responsibilities

. Handling conflicts and maintaining positive working relationships at sea

This module focuses on the behavioural and social aspects of life at sea, helping trainees understand their role in maintaining a safe and harmonious shipboard environment.

5. Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA)

Objective: To ensure seafarers are aware of potential security threats and how to respond appropriately.

Key Learning Areas:

. Recognising security risks, including piracy and terrorism

. Understanding maritime security protocols (ISPS Code)

. Roles and responsibilities during security-related incident

. Identifying suspicious behaviours and handling security breaches

For those assigned specific security duties on board, the Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) is an additional certification required beyond PSA.

Why Choose Seascope Maritime Training for STCW Courses?

. MCA-Approved Training: All STCW courses meet international standards and are widely recognised in the maritime industry.

. Experienced Instructors: Our trainers are seasoned maritime professionals who provide both theoretical knowledge and practical insights.

. Hands-On Training: From fire drills to survival techniques, our courses ensure real-world preparation.

. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our Liverpool and Palma training centres offer top-tier equipment, including heated pools for survival exercises.

. Supportive Environment: Our small class sizes ensure personalised attention and a supportive learning atmosphere.

Ready to Start Your Maritime Career?

Whether you’re taking your first steps toward working on a superyacht or renewing your STCW certification, Seascope Maritime Training provides comprehensive and affordable courses to help you succeed. Book your STCW Basic Safety Training today at our Liverpool or Palma de Mallorca centres and prepare yourself for a safe and successful career at sea.