Collision between a container ship and a linkspan

The report observes that the generic training undertaken by marine engineers during courses leading to professional qualifications, may be insufficient on its own to equip engineers to operate, maintain and successfully diagnose and repair faults on fully integrated, complex engine systems. It recommends that ship owners ensure that, where appropriate, their Safety Management Systems include the need for additional measures, such as effective type-specific training for engineers, and a longer period of supervision by guarantee engineers.

It recommends a review of the training requirements for marine engineers within STCW – to take account of continuing developments in propulsion technology, particularly where main propulsion systems employ integrated combinations of mechanical, electrical, electronic and hydraulic systems essential to the proper and continued functioning of the overall system.