Bridge resource management course
| Course requirement | STCW recommended |
| Duration hours | 3/24 |
| STCW references | A-VIII/2 3-1, B-I/12, B-VIII/2-3.1 |
The work of planning, executing and reviewing simulated transits is designed to heighten the awareness of the participants to the job of safe navigation and to the hazards presented to the ship and its crew during those times of increased workload. This "Heightened awareness" will reduce the potential for human error. The training comprises discussion and practicing the skills and knowledge which a ship's Bridge Team must possess to ensure a safe and efficient transit into or out of a port, or through a traffic choke point.
The course is designated for Masters, Chief Officers, other officers and future officers who are in charge of navigation and watchkeeping, such as pilots.
- understand and be able to explain the value of bridge teamwork, sharing workload, and how to build good teamwork with or without a pilot aboard, enhancing safety and efficiency
- have a good situation awareness and anticipate potential problems
- be able to make and monitor a comprehensive Passage Plan for port arrival/departure and traffic choke point transits, obtaining early relevant information using all available equipment and resources
- be able to handle unexpected and emergency situations, and make decisions that are realistic and sensitive to constraints
- understand and be able to explain the value and practical use of the Operating Procedures specified by the Company Using caution, safe strategies and keeping options open as long as possible
Those wishing to enter this course should have experience in performing passage planning and should be able to practice all usual tasks concerning standard navigational procedures and equipment. They should be familiar with the functions and limitations of navigational equipment such as Radar/ARPA and ECDIS. They should preferably be familiar with standard computer multimedia devices, including elements such as windows, menus, trackball, etc.
- Allocation, assignment and prioritization of resources
- Effective communication
- Assertiveness and leadership
- Obtaining and maintaining situational awareness
- Consideration of team experience