Example syllabus on

Marine Environment Awareness Course

Index

Page

1. Foreword 2
2. Introduction 2
3. Aims and objective 3
4. Targets 3
5. Entry standards 4
6. Course content and characteristics 4
7. Course duration and timetable 11
8. Teaching facilities and equipment 12
9. Evaluation 13
10. Course outline 13
11. Learning outcomes summary 17
12. Specific tasks 19
13. Appendix – ECVET additional requirements 23
 Foreword
Vocational education and training in the maritime field is regulated by the International Maritime
Organization’s (IMO) International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). The Convention aims to provide universal regulations for
maritime education, qualifications and watchkeeping – or at least set the minimum requirements.
However, despite the STCW Convention, there are major differences between countries - and VET
institutions - in the content and structure of maritime education and training (MET). Furthermore,
since at the moment (January 2016) the STCW Convention doesn't require mandatory courses on
marine environment pollution prevention, this document provides a course outline as an instrument
to implement a course on environment awareness, taking into account all maritime environment
legislation.

The course provided has been developed following the principles of the European Union’s ECVET
(European Credit System for Vocational Education and Training) Recommendations in order to
facilitate the transfer, recognition and accumulation of assessed learning outcomes achieved in
formal, non-formal and informal contexts by individuals who are aiming to achieve a qualification.
The Marine Environment Awareness Course outline has been created by a consortium of
universities, vocational training institutes and MET sectors from Finland, Germany, Italy, Malta and
the UK as part of a MariePRO - Promoting Maritime ECVET Actions - project. The partners involved in
the project include Centre for Factories of the Future (UK), ITTL Nautico San Giorgio (IT),
Mediterranean Maritime Research and Training Centre (MT), University of Bremen, Institute
Technology and Education (DE), and University of Turku, Centre for Maritime Studies (FI). The
MariePRO project is co-funded by Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. In Finland CIMO,
the national agency for the European Union’s education and youth programmes, administers and is
responsible for implementing the Erasmus+ programme. The European Commission accepts no
responsibility for the contents of this publication.

Introduction
At this moment (March 2016) the STCW Convention doesn't require mandatory courses about
marine environment pollution prevention; only an optional model course is provided - IMO Model
course 1.38, Marine environment awareness course.

This clashes to some extent with the multiplication of the environment related provisions, involving
both amendments to the existing Conventions - MARPOL,, and new regulations that are expected
entering into force in the future, for example the BWM (Ballast Water Management) Convention and
the Hong Kong Convention.

This shows that there is an increasing need of competence in the field of the marine environment
issues management, both for the seafarers and the shore based personnel.
 Aims and objective
The aim of this document is to provide an effective instrument to carry out a course on environment
awareness, taking into account all maritime environment legislation, with particular regard to the
measures to prevent pollution.

The aim of the course is to ensure the learner achieves the necessary theoretical knowledge and
leader’s abilities to implement and maintain the required documents and procedures for all activities
to preserve surrounding environments from the garbage produced on board. As well as to provide
high quality information and knowledge on the marine environment to marine professionals based
to IMO Model Course 1.38, and the requirements of Sections A-ll/1 of Chapter II, A-lll/1 and A-lll/6 of
Chapter III of the STCW 78 as amended in 2010.

The course content emphasises concise communications, interpretation of documents and analysis
of complex managerial issues in the maritime sector dealing with various high-ranking officials

This course is useful to support maritime institutions to provide a non-mandatory, ECVET compliant
maritime environment awareness course of great relevance for the seafarers and shore based
personnel who can benefit from acquiring concrete competences in the care of marine environment.

The objective should be always an increasing awareness of the problems linked to maritime
pollution among the "people of shipping".

The imminent entering into force of the BWM Convention will expose the need for a good
understanding of its provisions among seafarers; the same problem relates to the recent MARPOL
amendments in the Annexes III, IV, V and VI. This course offers knowledge and abilities for the
implementation of the new or updated documentation required for maritime environmental
awareness and protection as well as covering the managing of the pollution prevention plan, the
environment-related inspections on board and actions in case of the emergencies

Targets
The targets of this course are very diversified, and minor changes are deemed necessary to adapt
the teaching techniques and the content to different category of trainees.

Given the importance of the topic is desirable that this course could form part of the basic MET
programmes carried out in the EQF 4/5 institutions, but it should also be provided at the EQF 6 level
and for Officers in service, in order to clarify how to make on-board procedures more effective and
keep the crew always updated with the continually changing legislation.

The course has been developed for, and will be useful to, international marine professionals both
deck officers and engineers including electrical engineers, ship owners, shipping management staff
(aboard the ship or onshore), ISM designated persons (DPAs) and maritime inspectors.

The major impulse that drives the decision of a Company to provide this kind of course to on-board
crew and shore based personnel is the lifelong learning concept.
Entry standards
Applicants for this course should have been on recognized ship officer programme of study and
deemed to have the necessary prerequisite knowledge, Skills/competence which also included
subjects such as in physics, chemistry and ship science and technology; a general knowledge on the
role, the function and the structure of the relevant IMO Conventions, later
recommendations/adoptions and emendation is also required

More experienced seafarers who have completed an IMO Model Course 1.38, Marine Environment
Awareness course, and/or completed training in any of the related IMO conventions concerning safety
of life at sea, security and protection of the marine environment may take advantage of Accreditation of
Prior Learning (APL), if agreed by training provider/institution, and seek credit for their prior learning
by demonstrating competence.

Course content and characteristics

The course can be provided as a stand-alone training/refreshment action or it can be embedded
within the EQF 4 to 6 MET programmes.

The course should incorporate the following STCW competences as a minimum (Operational and
Management level).

Section AII/1 & AII/2 of chapter II (Master and Deck Officers) &A-II/5 – support level

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/1, page 108
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Ensure Prevention of pollution of the Examination and assessment of Procedures for monitoring
compliance marine environment and anti- evidence obtained from one or shipboard operations and
with pollution procedures more of the following: ensuring compliance with
pollution- 1. approved in-service MARPOL requirements are
prevention Knowledge of the precautions to be experience fully observed
requirements taken to prevent pollution of the 2. approved training ship
marine environment experience Actions to ensure that a
3. approved training positive environmental
Anti-pollution procedures and all reputation is maintained
associated equipment

Importance of proactive measures

to protect the marine environment

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/1, page 109
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Monitor Basic working knowledge of the Assessment of evidence Legislative requirements
compliance relevant IMO conventions obtained from examination or relating to safety of life at
with concerning safety of life at sea, approved training sea, security and protection
legislative security and protection of the of the marine environment
requirements marine environment and correctly identified

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/2, page 118
Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the management level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Plan and Ability to establish procedures for Examination and assessment of The frequency and extent of
ensure safe safe cargo handling in accordance evidence obtained from one or cargo condition monitoring is
loading, with the provisions of the relevant more of the following: appropriate to its nature and
stowage, instruments such as IMDG Code, 1. approved in-service prevailing conditions
securing, IMSBC Code, MARPOL 73/78 experience
care during Annexes III and V and other relevant 2. approved simulator Unacceptable or unforeseen
the voyage information training, where variations in the condition or
and appropriate specification of the cargo are
unloading of promptly recognized and
cargoes remedial action is
immediately taken and
designed to safeguard the
safety of the ship and those
on board

Cargo operations are planned

and executed in accordance
with established procedures
and legislative requirements

Stowage and securing of

cargoes ensures that stability
and stress conditions remain
within safe limits at all times
during the voyage

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/2, page 120
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Monitor and Knowledge of international Examination and assessment Procedures for
control maritime law embodied in of evidence obtained from monitoring operations
compliance international agreements and one or more of the following: and maintenance
with conventions 1. approved in-service comply with legislative
legislative experience requirements
requirements Regard shall be paid especially to 2. approved training
and the following subjects: ship experience Potential non-
measures to 1. certificates and other 3. approved simulator compliance is
ensure safety documents required to be training, where promptly and fully
of life at sea, carried on board ships by appropriate identified
security and international conventions,
the how they may be obtained Planned renewal and
protection of and their period of validity extension of
the marine 2. responsibilities under the certificates ensures
environment relevant requirements of continued validity of
the International surveyed items and
Convention on Load Lines, equipment
1966, as amended
3. responsibilities under the
relevant requirements of
the International
Convention for the Safety
of Life at Sea, 1974, as
amended
4. responsibilities under the
International Convention
for Prevention of Pollution
from Ships, as amended
5. maritime declarations of
health and the
requirements of the
International Health
Regulations
6. responsibilities under
international instruments
affecting the safety of the
ship, passengers, crew and
cargo
7. methods and aids to
prevent pollution of the
marine environment by
ships
8. national legislation for
implementing international
agreements and
conventions

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/3, page 130
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Ensure Prevention of pollution of the Examination and assessment Procedures for
compliance marine environment and anti- of evidence obtained from monitoring shipboard
with pollution procedures one or more of the following: operations and
pollution- 1. approved in-service ensuring compliance
prevention Knowledge of the precautions to experience with MARPOL
requirements be taken to prevent pollution of 2. approved training requirements are fully
the marine environment ship experience observed

Anti-pollution procedures and all

associated equipment

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/3, page 131
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Monitor Basic working knowledge of the Assessment of evidence Legislative
compliance relevant IMO conventions obtained from examination requirements relating
with concerning safety of life at sea, or approved training to safety of life at sea,
legislative security and protection of the security and protection
requirements marine environment of the marine
environment are
correctly identified

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter II – Master and deck department

Table A-II/5, page 138
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the support level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Apply Knowledge of the precautions to Assessment of evidence Procedures designated
precautions be taken to prevent pollution of obtained from one or more of to safeguard the
and the marine environment the following: marine environment
contribute 1. approved in- are observed at all
to the Knowledge of the use and service experience times
prevention operation of anti-pollution 2. practical training
of pollution equipment 3. examination
of the 4. approved training
marine Knowledge of the approved ship experience
environment methods for disposal of marine
pollutants
Section AIII/1 & AIII/2 (Engineers) & A-III/5- support level

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department

Table A-III/1, page 149
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Ensure Prevention of pollution of the Examination and assessment Procedures for
compliance marine environment of evidence obtained from monitoring shipboard
with one or more of the following: operations and
pollution- Knowledge of the precautions to 3. approved in-service ensuring compliance
prevention be taken to prevent pollution of experience with MARPOL
requirements the marine environment 4. approved training requirements are fully
ship experience observed
Anti-pollution procedures and all 5. approved training
associated equipment Actions to ensure that a
positive environmental
Importance of proactive measures reputation is
to protect the marine maintained
environment

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department

Table A-III/1, page 150
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Monitor Basic working knowledge of the Assessment of evidence Legislative
compliance relevant IMO conventions obtained from examination requirements relating
with concerning safety of life at sea, or approved training to safety of life at sea,
legislative security and protection of the security and protection
requirements marine environment of the marine
environment are
correctly identified

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department

Table A-III/1, page 158
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Monitor and Knowledge of relevant international Examination and assessment Stability and stress
control maritime law embodied in of evidence obtained from conditions are
compliance international agreements and one or more of the following: maintained within
with conventions 4. approved in-service safety limits at all
legislative experience times
requirements Regard shall be paid especially to 5. approved training
and the following subjects: ship experience
measures to 9. certificates and other 6. approved simulator
ensure safety documents required to be training, where
of life at sea, carried on board ships by appropriate
security and international conventions,
the how they may be obtained
protection of and the period of their
the marine legal validity
environment 10. responsibilities under the
relevant requirements of
the International
Convention on Load Lines,
1966, as amended
11. responsibilities under the
relevant requirements of
the International
Convention for the Safety
of Life at Sea, 1974, as
amended
12. responsibilities under the
International Convention
for the Prevention of
Pollution from Ships, as
amended
13. maritime declarations of
health and the
requirements of the
International Health
Regulations
14. responsibilities under
international instruments
affecting the safety of the
ships, passengers, crew or
cargo
15. methods and aids to
prevent pollution of the
environment by ships
16. knowledge of national
legislation for
implementing international
agreements and
conventions
STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department
Table A-III/5, page 168
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the support level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Apply Knowledge of the precautions to Assessment of evidence Procedures designated
precautions be taken to prevent pollution of obtained from one or more of to safeguard the
and the marine environment the following: marine environment
contribute 5. approved in-service are observed at all
to the Knowledge of the use and experience times
prevention operation of anti-pollution 6. practical training
of pollution equipment 7. examination
of the 8. approved training
marine Knowledge of the approved ship experience
environment methods for disposal of marine
pollutants

Section AIII/6 of Chapter III (Electrician)

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department

Table A-III/6, page 176
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Ensure Prevention of pollution of the Examination and assessment Procedures for
compliance marine environment of evidence obtained from monitoring shipboard
with one or more of the following: operations and
pollution- Knowledge of the precautions to 6. approved in-service ensuring compliance
prevention be taken to prevent pollution of experience with pollution-
requirements the marine environment 7. approved training prevention
ship experience requirements are fully
Anti-pollution procedures and all 8. approved training observed
associated equipment
Actions to ensure that a
Importance of proactive measures positive environmental
to protect the marine reputation is
environment maintained

STCW Code, as amended: Part A, Chapter III – Engine department

Table A-III/7, page 182
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the support level
Competence Knowledge, understanding and Methods for demonstrating Criteria for evaluating
proficiency competence competence
Apply Knowledge of the precautions to Assessment of evidence Procedures designated
precautions be taken to prevent pollution of obtained from one or more of to safeguard the
and the marine environment the following: marine environment
contribute 9. approved in-service are observed at all
to the Knowledge of the use and experience times
prevention operation of anti-pollution 10. practical training
of pollution equipment/agents 11. examination
of the 12. approved training
marine Knowledge of the approved ship experience
environment methods for disposal of marine
pollutants

The course content revolves around current environment prevention legislation guidances in
emergency situations are also included.

Maritime pollution has always been an issue that evokes diverse opinions and also involves the non-
maritime community: news about pollution incidents always bounces across TV screens and
newspapers around the world and effective media management should be carefully looked into and
planned for by maritime actors.

Specific pedagogical instruments such as group work, simulation and role playing game are included
to develop a brand new type of course where traditional lectures are reduced to a minimum, leaving
room for active participation by the trainees: the topic is such that it would be easy to fall into the
extremism of the pure theoretical approach which is boring for learners and not competence-
oriented, so a more active inclusion of the learners was decided.

The course should preferably be held in English, in order to produce the minimum deviation from
the original text of the legislation.

The active approach fits well with the CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning)
methodology, using English as second language; this would be particularly useful for the youngest
trainees or in each case where there is a need of a growth in the language competences. CLIL
(Content and Language Integrated Learning) is a teaching methodology well established all over
Europe, in which students learn a certain subject by means of a foreign language: it has a dual-
focused purpose, namely the learning of the content and the simultaneous learning of a foreign
language. CLILs main characteristics are the particular attention paid to the use of active learning
strategies (such as group work, simulation, etc.). The use of authentic teaching materials and the use
of Information and Communication Technologies are also often encouraged.

Course duration and timetable

The course can be provided with different lengths, in order to fit with the various trainee categories:

 refreshment version: requires 2 days (16 hours) teaching time, intended for Navigation
Officers/Engineer Officers and shore based personnel (experts)

 extended version: requires 5 days (40 hours) teaching time, intended for cadets and shore
based personnel (other than experts)

The extended version covers all the relevant aspect of the legislation, with sufficient time left for the
execution of the in class tasks to prove that learning is taking place; a suggested timetable for the
course is as follows:
 Extended version
Days of course Morning Afternoon
8:00 – 12:00 13:00 – 17:00
Day 1 Describe the types of pollution and Recognize the main sources of law in the
intervention techniques marine environment field (with TASK)

Day 2 Apply the BWM Convention technical Apply the BWM Convention technical
content content (TASKS)
Day 3 Apply the MARPOL Convention Apply the MARPOL Convention technical
technical content content (TASKS)

Day 4 Apply the MARPOL Convention Apply the MARPOL Convention technical
technical content content (TASKS)

Day 5 Deal with a pollution incident Deal with a pollution incident (TASK)
+
final written test

The refreshment version is largely oriented towards new issues and the latest amendments to the
Conventions dealing with marine pollution; a suggested timetable for the course is as follows:

Refreshment version
Days of course Morning Afternoon
8:00 – 12:00 13:00 – 17:00
Day 1 New MARPOL amendments and the Apply the new MARPOL amendments
BWM Convention technical content and the BWM Convention technical
content (TASKS)
Day 2 Further studies on new issues about Deal with a pollution incident (TASK)
marine environment protection +
(Energy efficiency, noise reduction,
final written test
Polar Code etc.)

Teaching facilities and equipment

The course requires a flipchart, video projectors or any arrangements to show slide presentations,
computers (3 to 5 as a minimum) to be left available for trainees, with internet access, nautical
charts including relevant MARPOL special area zones, videos as deemed necessary, an up-to-date
copy of each Convention that is topic of the course or, at least the MARPOL and BWM Convention
(electronic formats are allowed and desirable).
For the execution of the active tasks facsimile certificates and real-life formats of the record books
are also needed; sample certificates have to be compiled in such a way that seems to be authentic,
but some of them should be expired.

Certificates:
 International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate
 International Pollution Prevention Certificate for the Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances in
Bulk
 International Sewage Pollution Prevention (ISPP) Certificate
 International Air Pollution Prevention (IAPP) Certificate
 Engine International Air Pollution Prevention (EIAPP) Certificate
 International Energy Efficiency (IEE) Certificate

Plans and books:

 Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan
 Oil Record Book, parts I and II
 Shipboard Marine pollution emergency plan for Noxious Liquid Substances
 Procedures and Arrangements Manual (chemical tankers)
 Cargo Record Book
 Garbage Management Plan
 Garbage Record Book
 Bunker delivery notes

Note: traditional lectures by PowerPoint presentations should be kept to a minimum, but for this
purpose relevant presentations should be prepared by the trainer with no particular requirements
other than the adequacy to the course, as evaluated on the basis of his professional judgement
skills.

Evaluation
The final assessment at the end of the course should follow a dual mechanism:

1. Theoretical evaluation: final written/oral test (pass/fail) – weight 40%

2. Competence oriented evaluation: results from observations during simulation activity, to be

followed by a debriefing that allows the assessment to be interactive. - weight 60%

It should be noted what is stated in this course is guideline content and a training strategy and method.
The trainer is advised to adapt the course including its assessment content/method to the needs of the
participants/trainees; taking into account of any prior learning or assessment.

Section 11 of this document provides some guidelines about the most suitable type of assessment
for each topic included in the course.

It should be noted that the adequateness of the dialogues during simulation and the behaviour of
the learner during eventual remarks within the debriefing are elements of evaluation.
 Course outline

Lecture Tasks
Knowledge understanding and proficiency
hours hours

1. Describe the types of pollution and intervention techniques

1.1. General causes and effects of marine pollution 1,0
1.1.1. Difference between organic and non-organic substances
1.1.2. Eutrophication
1.1.3. Effect on plankton
1.2. Systems to counteract an oil pollution incident 3,0
1.1.4. Use of booms
1.1.5. Skimmers
1.1.6. Sorbers
1.1.7. Disperdants
1.1.8. Procedures for biological action and in situ burning
1.1.9. Case studies
4,0
2. Recognize the main sources of law in the marine environment field
2.1. Brief history of the marine environment legislation 0,25
2.2. General legislation about maritime pollution 1,0
2.2.1. UNCLOS (Montego Bay)
2.2.2. Local legislation (where applicable)
NB: countries that must comply with the EU legislation, it has to be
analysed (ex. directive 2009/123/CE)
2.3. Brief analysis of the main IMO instruments about environment 1,75
protection and pollution prevention:
2.3.1. PSSAs concept
2.3.2. Anti-fouling (AFS Convention and Biofouling Guidelines)
2.3.3. Ship recycling (Hong Kong Convention)
2.3.4. BWM Convention
2.3.5. MARPOL Convention (history from OILPOL until today)
2.3.6. MEPC resolutions systems
2.3.7. Polar code
Task 1 1,5
Debriefing of Task 0,5
2,0 2,0
3. Apply the BWM Convention technical content
3.1. Necessity of the ballast on board and associated risks for the 0,5
spreading of Aquatic Invasive Species
3.2. Application of the Convention 0,25
3.3. Ballast water management Documentation 0,5
 3.3.1. Ballast Water Record Book
3.3.2. International Ballast Water Management Certificate
3.4. Ballast water technical management 1,0
3.4.1. Ballast water exchange
3.4.2. Ballast water management system – BWMS
3.4.3. Special provisions in polar waters
3.5. Biologic pollution cases 0,5
3.5.1. Zebra Mussel
3.5.2. Golden mussel
3.5.3. North American Comb jelly
3.5.4. Cladoceran Water Flea
3.5.5. Mitten crab
3.5.6. Round Goby
3.5.7. North Pacific Seastar
3.5.8. Asian kelp
3.5.9. European Green Crab
3.6. Technologies for the ballast water treatment 1,25
3.6.1. Filtering
3.6.2. Disinfection by UV, ozone, oxidation, chlorination, etc.
3.6.3. Analysis of the main products on the market

Relevant IMO products:

 Resolution A.868(20)
 Resolution MEPC.124(53)
 Resolution MEPC.174(58)
 Resolution MEPC.127(53)
 Resolution MEPC.149(55)
 Resolution MEPC.150(55)
3,0
Task 1, Task 2, Task 4 1,0
Debriefing of Tasks 4,0
4,0
4. Apply the MARPOL Convention technical content
4.1. Pollution by oil (Annex I) 0,5
4.1.1. Generals
4.1.2. Special areas
4.1.3. Survey and certificates
4.2. Requirements for machinery spaces (Annex I) 1,5
4.2.1. Discharge of oily mixtures
4.2.2. Filling of the oil record book, part I
4.3. Requirements for the cargo area of oil tankers (Annex I) 2,0
4.3.1. SBTs
 4.3.2. Double hull and double bottom
4.3.3. Slop tank
4.3.4. Crude oil washing
4.3.5. Stability
4.3.6. Oil discharge monitoring and control system
4.3.7. Filling of the oil record book, part II
4.3.8. Special provisions in polar waters
4.4. Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan – SOPEP (Annex I) 1,0
4.5. Control of pollution by noxious liquid substances (Annex II) 1,0
4.5.1. Generals
4.5.2. Survey and certificates
4.5.3. Special area
4.5.4. Retain and discharge of residues
4.5.5. Procedures and Arrangements Manual
4.5.6. Cargo record book
4.6. Prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in 1,0
packaged form (Annex III)
4.6.1. Stowage
4.6.2. Marking and labelling
4.6.3. Documentation
4.6.4. Packing
4.7. Prevention of pollution by sewage from ships (Annex IV) 1,0
4.7.1. Risks from sewage
4.7.2. Survey and certificates
4.7.3. Special areas
4.7.4. Discharge of sewage
4.7.5. Special provisions in polar waters
4.8. Prevention of pollution by garbage from ships (Annex V) 2,0
4.8.1. Definition of garbage
4.8.2. Special areas
4.8.3. Discharge of garbage
4.8.4. Garbage management plan
4.8.5. Filling the garbage record book
4.8.6. Special provisions in polar waters
4.9. Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (Annex VI) 2,0
4.9.1. Survey and certificates
4.9.2. Special areas
4.9.3. Ozone-depleting substances (relation with Montreal P.)
4.9.4. Nitrogen oxides NOx
4.9.5. Sulphur oxides SOx and particulate matter
4.9.6. Volatile organic compounds – VOC
4.9.7. Shipboard incineration
 4.9.8. Reception facilities
4.9.9. Bunker delivery note
4.9.10. Greenhouse gas – GHG (relation with Kyoto P.)
4.9.11. Energy efficiency for ships and related technology
4.9.12. Noise reduction from ships

Relevant IMO products:

 Resolution A.446(XI), A.497(XII), A.897(21)
 Resolution A.496(XII)
 Resolution MEPC.193(61)
 Resolution MEPC.201(62)
 Resolution MEPC.202(62)
 Resolution MEPC.203(62)
 Resolution MEPC.245(66)
 Resolution MEPC.251(66)
7,0
Task 1, Task 2, Task 3, Task 4, Task 5 1,0
Debriefing of Tasks 8,0 8,0

5. Deal with a pollution incident

5.1. Manage the emergency 1,0
5.2. Contact competent authorities 0,5
5.3. Dealing with media 1,0
5.4. Case studies 1,5

Task 6 2,0
Debriefing of Tasks 1,0
4,0 3,0
Final written test 1,0

TOTAL 22,0 18,0

Note: Lecture hours and tasks hours are for guidance only

Learning outcomes summary

The following table provides a summary of the learning outcomes to be demonstrated at the end of
the course. The reference numbers refer to the content groups specified in the Course Outline
(Section 10).

Nominal
Reference Learning Assessment
Competence Knowledge Skills Hours
number Outcomes Suggested
Suggested
1 Applies Basis of the Implement Able to apply Written/Oral 4h
different applicable correctly and intervention Ongoing
types of marine ecology on time all techniques in assessment is
pollution also to be
techniques different
and Biofouling performed
and means types of
intervention procedures for for marine pollution at
techniques produced environment sea scenarios
protections
Ships and Properly
company Motivate all handle a
procedures for crew to pollution
environment safeguard the incident
preserving sea
environment

2 Identifies Basic Identifies Written/Oral 4h

the main international different
sources of requirements sources of
law in the law about
and local rules
marine specific type
and marine of pollution
environment
regulatory at sea
field
framework

IMO products
implementation
status and
feedback

3 Apply the Ship’s ballast Initiate Handle the Written/Oral/ 8h

BWM plan correct ballast water Simulation
Convention actions in system
technical Ballast system order to
content and respective prevent any Monitor the
controlling pollution into adequateness
equipment the sea of the
relevant
Operate with documents
the ballast and log book
and over
board
discharge
systems

Maintain and
correctly
record
relevant
entries in the
ships log
book for solid
 waste and
ballast
operations

4 Apply the Principles and Initiate Handle oil, Written/Oral/ 16h

MARPOL safe methods of correct chemical
Convention arranging for actions in products, Simulation
technical the proper order to harmful
content loading, prevent any substances in
stowage and pollution into packaged
carriage of oil, the sea form, sewage
gas and and garbage
chemical Operate
cargoes relevant Properly
discharge manage
Garbage controlling discharges at
handling on apparatus sea
board
Maintain and Monitor the
Vessel’s plan for correctly adequateness
solid waste record of the
handling relevant relevant
entries in the documents
Sewage ships log and log book
handling and book for solid
discharge waste and
ballast
Controlling
operations
machinery
providing
emission
content
information

5 Deal Emergency Correctly Execute the Simulation/Oral 7h

effectively procedures communicate right
with a in case of procedures in
pollution the case of an
actual marine
incident emergency
pollution

Specific tasks
The following are examples of active tasks designed to offer a competence based approach and to
facilitate the final course assessment.
TASK 1 – Searching for legislative information other than IMO prescription (group work)

Phase 1: the trainer should create a situation requiring a need of information about the laws
adopted by certain Country that use different or more stringent requirements in respect to
the IMO prescriptions dealt with during the formal lessons;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into groups (from 2 to 5 persons), each group should
be provided with internet access;

Phase 3: the trainer should assign a subject to the groups, clearly specifying the information
to be found on the web, involving local regulations (for example EU regulations, directives
and recommendations);

Phase 4: enough time should be left to the trainees to find information on the web and
produce a brief report;

Phase 5: each group should present what has been found to the other trainees and to the
trainer, in order to create a peer-to-peer teaching experience; the content, the use of
appropriate terms and the exposition/dialectic performance of each learner are included as
elements of assessment.

The task can involve different subjects for different groups or the same subject for each
group, in order to make comparison between different performances.

TASK 2 - Searching for IMO technical information (group work)

Phase 1: the trainer should create a situation which requires a need for more detailed
information about the topics dealt with during the frontal lessons, to be found on specific
resolutions;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into groups (from 2 to 5 persons), each group should
be provided with internet access;

Phase 3: the trainer should assign a subject to the groups, clearly specifying the information
to be found on the web, mainly involving IMO resolutions called back from the conventions;

Phase 4: enough time should be left to the trainees to find information on the web and
produce a brief report;

Phase 5: each group should present what has been found to the other trainees and to the
trainer, in order to create a peer-to-peer teaching experience; the content, the use of
appropriate terms and the exposition/dialectic performance of each learner are included as
elements of assessment.

The task can involve different subjects for different groups or the same subject for each
group, in order to make comparison between different performances.
TASK 3 - Navigation involving special areas (group work)

Phase 1: the trainer should create a certain number of passage planning sheets involving
positions with different distance from the coast and different placing in respect to the
MARPOL special areas, and in addiction she/he can prepare a scenario involving special
coastal advice in form of a NAVTEX warnings (for example involving areas not to be
considered adequate for the ballast intake) or special needs of the ship;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into groups (from 2 to 5 persons), and each group
should be asked to prepare a plan for the discharge of MARPOL products or the intake of
ballast, taking into account the information provided;

Phase 4: enough time should be left to the trainees to find information, if needed, about the
boundaries of the special areas in order to prepare a list of actions that can be carried out
without contravening MARPOL prescriptions, for each leg/position of the voyage plan;

Phase 5: each group should than present the conclusions to the class; the content, the use of
appropriate terms and the exposition/dialectic performance of each learner are inclded as
elements of assessment...

TASK 4 - Technical arrangements and ship documentation (project work/group work)

Phase 1: the trainer should create different ship's data sheets including, but not limited to,
type, date of keel laying, GT, NT, dimensions;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into groups (from 2 to 5 persons), and each group
should be asked to prepare a list of all the requirements that the assigned ship should
respect to be in compliance with MARPOL and BWM Conventions, both from the technical
and administrative point of view (plants, arrangements, certificates, registers, books, etc.);

Phase 5: each group should then present the conclusions to the class; the content, the use of
appropriate terms and the exposition/dialectic performance of each learner are included as
elements of assessment...

TASK 5 - PSC inspection simulation (role playing game)

Phase 1: the trainer should create a scenario providing information such as the type of ship
concerned (flag, GT, etc.) and the Country where the inspection takes place;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into two groups one expected to act like PSC Officers
and the other expected to act like the crew of the ship; this second group should be
provided with mock Certificates;

Phase 3: enough time should be left for the trainees to study the situation and prepare the
simulation; in this phase attention from the assessor should be paid to the crew because
they have to demonstrate the ability to select the correct documentation for their ship, mind
 the validity of the certificate and simulate the correct filling of at least one page of the
record books;

Phase 4: the simulation takes place and all the events are up to the trainees; in this phase
attention from the assessor should be paid to the PSCO because they have to demonstrate
the ability to check the correctness and validity of the documentation presented and the
adequate filling of the proper record books. For both groups the completion of an
appropriate conversation and the behaviour during the assessor eventual remarks of each
learner are included as elements of assessment...

TASK 6 - Simulation of pollution accident (role playing game)

Phase 1: the trainer should create a scenario providing information such as the type of ship
concerned (flag, GT, etc.) and the waters/port where the casualty takes place;

Phase 2: the trainees should be divided into the following groups), each expected to act as
required by their own role:

 Group 1: Ship’s crew (from 3 to 8 persons), that means Master, Officers,

Environmental Officer where applicable, Safety Officers etc.
 Group 2: Company (from 3 to 8 persons), that means DPA, media referent, crisis
unit, managers, etc.
 Group 3: Coastal State Authorities and rescue crew (from 1 to 4 persons), that
means harbour master, SAR units etc.
 Group 4: Media (from 1 to 3 persons), that means local and global media (TV and
newspaper journalists etc.)
 Group 5 (optional): ship’s classification societies and flag Authorities
 Group 6 (optional): other ships’ crew
 Group 7 (optional): salvage crew
 Group 8 (optional): P&I clubs or other insurance companies
Phase 3: groups will be placed in different rooms, if possible, allowing them to communicate
each other using VHF W/T or interphone where applicable; enough time should be left for
the trainees to study the situation and prepare the simulation, but no information should be
submitted about the type of emergency because it should be unexpected;

Phase 4: the simulation takes place when the trainer will inform the group acting like the crew of the
ship about the type of emergency; the trainer has to provide groups with sheets containing
information Coherent with their own role (press releases, ship’s plan etc.), but events are up to the
trainees. For both groups the completion of an appropriate conversations, documents and actions as
well as the Behaviour during eventual assessor remarks of each learner are included as elements of
assessment...

Appendix –ECVET Additional Requirements

The MariePRO Maritime Environment Awareness course included Learning outcomes, which are
statements of knowledge, skills, and competence that can be achieved in a variety of contexts and
acknowledges that Units of learning outcomes are components of qualifications. Units can be
assessed, validated and recognized. The course also is in line with the following requirements.

ECVET points give additional information about learning outcomes and qualification in a numerical
form. Credit will be given for assessed and documented learning of a learning outcome of a learner
and that Credit will be considered to be transferred to other contexts and accumulated to achieve a
qualification on the basis of the qualification standards and regulations existing in the participating
countries.

Mutual Trust and partnership among participating organisations will be expressed in Memoranda
of Understanding and Learning Agreements that is to say that organisations involved are fully aware
of the requirements for the agreement as outlined below. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
is expected to form the framework for cooperation between the competent institutions with the aim
of establishing first the mutual trust between the partners involved. In this MoU partner
organisations have mutually accepted their respective criteria and procedures for quality assurance,
validation and recognition of knowledge, skill and competence for the purpose of transferring
Credit. There should also be a provision for Agreements set up by sector based organisations (e. g.
by Chambers, regional and national authorities). There will be a list of organisations such as VET
providers, companies, etc., who are able to operate in the framework set up by the MoU.

In order to recognise Credit, the competent institution in charge should be confident that the
required learning outcomes have been assessed in a reliable and valid manner. It should trust that
the learner’s credit does concern the learning outcomes expected and these are at the appropriate
level.

On the basis of the assessed outcomes, the credit should be validated and recognised by another
competent institution. The transfer process should include three distinct stages:

The hosting institution should assess the learning outcomes achieved and award credit to the
learner. The learning outcomes achieved and corresponding ECVET points should be recorded in a
learner’s personal transcript. The sending institution then should recognise learning outcomes that
have been acquired; this recognition gives rise to the award of the units/learning outcomes and their
corresponding ECVET points, according to the rules of the home system.

Credit accumulation is a process through which learners can acquire qualifications progressively by
successive assessment and validation of learning outcomes. Accumulation of credit will be decided
by the competent institution responsible for the award of the qualification. When the learner has
accumulated the credit required and when all conditions for the award of the qualification are
fulfilled, the learner should be awarded the qualification.

NB: The institutions which are interested in using the MariePRO Maritime Environment Awareness
Course could make references to some existing ECVET projects for sample MoUs or Agreements or
as to how ECVET requirements were implemented. A useful example is http://www.ecvet-
projects.eu/Documents/MOTO_MoU.pdf and for more example please refer to http://www.ecvet-
projects.eu/Toolbox/Methodologies.aspx