More than 18 untrained boat crews (seafarers) have undergone a training on basic marine safety over the weekend at Ranadi Industrial site, East Honiara.
The training was an initiative program facilitated by Sol Safety Consultancy and Training Services (SSCTS) through marine authority to provide skills to untrained boat crews on basic Marine safety.
Facilitating the training was the former marine lecture captain Elijah Mouku.
The training covered areas of fire-fighting, elementary first aid, personal survival techniques, personal safety and social responsibility.
Captain Mouku said, the training was intended to ensure that seafarers are aware of the hazards while working on vessel and can respond appropriately in emergency times.
“The training is important because more than 90 percent of seafarers in the country were untrained.
“All marine crews whether in small or big boats must be trained to ensure that safety of passengers travelling in the boat safe.”
Sol Safety Consultancy and Training Services is the first local institute besides the marine school to see the importance of training the untrained seafarer and the safety of passengers when travelling in the sea.
“By completing the basic safety training, it is best for participant to go back and teach their family members on what they have learnt.
“Therefore all shipping company owners must stand out provide such training for their seafarers.”
Captain Mouku said, the training is a similar to one that is being offered at the school of marine.
“But the difference is all trainees have the chance to test and feel the reality of becoming a seafarer through demonstration excises.”
He urged all ship owners to prioritise marine safety to save the lives of people travelling in the boats.
“When you board a ship it is your home till you reach your destiny. So every seaman must be aware they have a responsibility to ensure everyone travels safely,” Captain Mouku said.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
