Basic Safety Training
STCW
The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is a maritime convention adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1978. Its main purpose is to establish minimum standards for training, certification, and watchkeeping for seafarers to ensure safe and efficient operation of ships.
Basic Modular Courses
BST - Basic Safety Training
Duration - 12 Working Days (may vary based on institute schedule)
Mode: Classroom theory, practical training, and drills
Certificate: STCW-compliant Basic Safety Training Certificate (combined for all four modules)
Approved By: Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India
Course Eligibility
The BST course includes the following modules:
| Survival at sea in case of abandonment |
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| Use of life-saving appliances |
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| Practical life raft and survival drills |
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| Principles of fire prevention) |
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| Fire detection and firefighting techniques) |
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| Use of portable and fixed firefighting equipment |
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| Practical firefighting drills |
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| Basic first aid principles |
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| CPR and resuscitation techniques |
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| Treatment of injuries, bleeding, burns, and shock |
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| Safe working practices onboard |
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| Prevention of marine pollution |
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| Understanding emergency procedures |
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| Rights, responsibilities, and teamwork at sea |
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Amendment Details and Circular References:
DGS Training Circular No. 6 of 2018 (dated 21 March 2018)
Introduced the single combined certificate for BST, replacing individual module certificates. Also mandated refresher training every 5 years for BST components, including FPFF and PST.
DGS Order No. 11 of 2022 (dated 22 March 2022)
Discontinued the issuance of Part-A/Part-B certificates implemented during COVID-19. As of 21 March 2022, seafarers receive a single combined Basic Safety Training certificate, valid for 5 years.
STCW CONVENTION 1978 AS AMENDED
Updated BST course structure to include enhanced safety competencies, refresher training, and tanker firefighting elements under FPFF where applicable.
Summary table
| Circular / Amendment | Date | Key Update |
| November 1DGS Circular 6/2018 | 21 Mar 2018 | BST issued as a single certificate, 5-year validity, refresher training required |
| DGS Order 11/2022 | 22 Mar 2022 | Reverted to single BST certificate, removed Part-A/Part-B format from COVID period |
| STCW 1978 Amendments | Effective globally | Enhanced BST content, including mandatory refresher requirements |
Note
Refresher training must be completed every 5 years to maintain validity of the BST certificate in compliance with STCW and DGS regulations.
