Course catalogue

The VIRSEC Maritime English Test for Senior Deck Officers is designed to assist ship operators and employers make recruiting decisions by assessing the English language competency of Seafarers at a Senior Officer position working on board any vessel.

The Test is designed around the approved guidelines for Maritime English developed by the IMO. These guidelines are combined with internationally recognised methods for English language testing to form a rigorous and accurate testing system.

Regulations:

The English Tests are designed from the ground up using approved guidelines from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO Model English course 3.17); IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCPs); and consistent with the framework set out by the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping.

Why Take This Test With VIRSEC:

What makes VIRSEC different from the others? Below are some of the benefits of taking this online Test with VIRSEC:

• CPD Accreditated Online Test
• Randomised Questioning
• Adheres to International Standards
• Position-Focused Questions
• Assesses 5 Primary Language Skills

Test Duration:

The user must attempt the Test in 90 minutes, and in one sitting. If a candidate does not complete the exam within the duration, they will fail any unanswered questions.

Who is this course for?
Process Operators

Is previous experience required?
You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role

How will this course benefit me?
This course aims to provide awareness of how gas hydrates may be formed and the effects that they can have on pipeline flow assurance. The course examines what hydrates are, how they are formed and their molecular structure. It discusses flow assurance, details the risks of pipeline plugging by hydrates, and outlines the various methods of controlling hydrate formation.

How will this course benefit my company?
By ensuring you are aware of how gas hydrates may be formed and the effects that they can have on pipeline flow assurance.

What standards are referred to in this course?
N/A

Is there an assessment?
Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is this course for?
Process Operators and Lab Technicians

Is previous experience required?
You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role

How will this course benefit me?
This course aims to provide an overview of the various types of process chemicals, their use and how they work.

Section 1: Basic Introduction to Chemistry
Section 2: Process Chemicals in the Oil and Gas Industry
Section 3: Identifying the Risks in the Use of Process Chemicals
Section 4: Managing Chemical usage

How will this course benefit my company?
By ensuring you have an overview of the various types of process chemicals, their use and how they work.

What standards are referred to in this course?
N/A

Is there an assessment?
Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is this course for?

Personnel requiring an awareness or understanding of US fire extinguishers.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to ensure that relevant personnel in the US have a common and consistent understanding of portable fire extinguishers.

How will this course benefit my company?

By ensuring you have a common and consistent approach to company and industry best practice in relation to US portable fire extinguishers.

What standards are referred to in this course?

This course does not refer to specific legislation or standards but is written according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is this course for?

This course is aimed at all personnel involved in operations involving the use of seals, particularly those who are expected to undertake related duties in the workplace.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to provide an overview of the role and application of seals and gaskets.

How will this course benefit my company?

To ensure you have an overview of the role and application of seals and gaskets.

What standards are referred to in this course?

The course is made according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is this course for?

Personnel who require knowledge or awareness of systems and equipment used for hydrocarbon processing.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to provide personnel with a broad overview of compressors, safety and controls systems, prime movers and ancillary systems.

How will this course benefit my company?

By ensuring you have an overview of common hydrocarbon processing systems and equipment and their associated hazards and controls.

What standards are referred to in this course?

There are no specific regulations referenced. The course is written according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is the course for?

Officers and Crew.

Is previous experience required?

No, but basic maritime engineering knowledge is recommended.

How will the course benefit me?

This course is designed to provide you an understanding of the operation and use of an exhaust gas cleaning system (Scrubbers).

How will the course benefit my company?

The course will provide the learners with basic knowledge about scrubbers and scrubber operations.

What standards are referenced in the course?

• MARPOL Annex VI

• OCIMF guide for Implementation of Sulphur Oxide Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 70%.

Who is this course for?
All engineering sub-disciplines connected with internal flow in production systems, including Base Management.

Is previous experience required?
You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role.

How will this course benefit me?
This course aims to provide an awareness of the how phase behaviour and multiphase flow regimes can impact on hydrocarbon delivery.

How will this course benefit my company?
By ensuring you are aware of the how phase behaviour and multiphase flow regimes can impact on hydrocarbon delivery.

What standards are referred to in this course?
N/A

Is there an assessment?
Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is the course for?

This course is aimed at individuals working in industrial sectors whose activities can impact the environment.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role.

How will the course benefit me?

This course will give you a basic understanding of environmental ‘aspects’ and ‘impacts’ and explain the purpose of an Environmental Management System (EMS).

The knowledge gained in this course will help you to stay in compliance with legislative requirements. It will also explain how you can play your part in improving environmental performance.

How will the course benefit my company?

By ensuring you are fully aware of the role of ISO 14001 in environmental management, you contribute to continual improvement in environmental performance, as well as ensuring that you operate in compliance with relevant regulations and legislation.

What standards are referenced in the course?

ISO 14001

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

The VIRSEC Maritime English Test for Senior Engine Officers is designed to assist ship operators and employers make recruiting decisions by assessing the English language competency of Seafarers at a Senior Officer position working on board any vessel.

The Test is designed around the approved guidelines for Maritime English developed by the IMO. These guidelines are combined with internationally recognised methods for English language testing to form a rigorous and accurate testing system.

Regulations:

The English Tests are designed from the ground up using approved guidelines from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO Model English course 3.17); IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCPs); and consistent with the framework set out by the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping.

Why Take This Test With VIRSEC:

What makes VIRSEC different from the others? Below are some of the benefits of taking this online Test with VIRSEC:

• CPD Accredited Online Test
• Randomised Questioning
• Adheres to International Standards
• Position-Focused Questions
• Assesses 5 Primary Language Skills

Test Duration:

The user must attempt the Test in 90 minutes, and in one sitting. If a candidate does not complete the exam within the duration, they will fail any unanswered questions.

Who is this course for?

Personnel requiring awareness or understanding of surface preparation methods.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to introduce learners to the requirements for maintaining surface preparation.

How will this course benefit my company?

By ensuring you are introduced to the requirements for maintaining surface preparation.

What standards are referred to in this course?

This course does not refer to specific legislation or standards but is written according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%. 

This option is more aimed at delegates with prior knowledge/experience in the workplace assessment, who are looking to consolidate their skills and knowledge to gain a formal certificate.

The e-learning material includes:

How to build a portfolio of evidence that meets the L&D9DI standard 

How to demonstrate knowledge of the above processes and a range of knowledge related to competence assessment in the workplace

What’s included in this course:

• SQA Registration Fee

• Online Induction

• Access to L&D9DI evidence requirements e-modules 

• Full explanation of evidence requirements and access to templates and evidence guides and examples 

• Virtual classroom on request - Introduction to SQA running weekly 

• Comprehensive support from an ITB Assessor to completion

• Assessment and Internal Verification of your submitted evidence

• SQA Certification Successful delegates will receive a certificate from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)

Virtual webinar sessions running weekly with an ITB Trainer for a Q&A session. Join as many virtual sessions as needed to support to completion of the full SQA qualification. 

Those who assess in the workplace using direct and indirect methods of assessment using examples: observation, questioning, work product, professional discussions, simulations, written evidence such as witness statements and candidate statements and RPL.

Assessment Requirements

Delegates will be required to submit a portfolio of evidence covering all of the Performance and Knowledge Criteria for the L&D9DI Unit. They must submit, as a minimum, assessment-related documentation that provides evidence for the elements listed below, for two candidates, covering two assessments per candidate: 

• Preparing to assess 

• Planning assessments 

• Assessing candidate’s performance and knowledge 

• Confirming progression and achievement

Delegates must use a range of assessment methods, including observation, questioning and work product. 

Delegates will also need to be observed carrying out part of the assessment process by an ITB (or NVQ-level) assessor and participate, with other assessors in their workplace, in standardisation practice.

Who is this course for?

All personnel who are involved in offshore drilling.

Is previous experience required?

No previous experience is required to complete this course. 

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to provide an overview of well control and the systems used in the process and is based upon the International Well Control Forum (IWCF) Level 1 Syllabus.

How will this course benefit my company?

This course will benefit companies by ensuring personnel have an understanding of well control and the relevant systems.

What standards are referred to in this course?

No standards or regulations are referenced in this course.

Is there an assessment?

Yes

Presentation

This training course provides a general overview of the SOLAS requirements concerning radio communications and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Objectives

On completion of the training, students will be able to:

Know the requirements concerning radio communication equipment on board ships and offshore units.

Understand the GMDSS functional requirements.

Understand the means required for GMDSS tests and drills on board.

Know the requirements for EPIRB, radio lifesaving appliances and sources of energy for radio communication equipment.

Program

Safety radio surveys and certification

GMDSS functional requirements

o Land and satellite communications

o Inmarsat

o Functional requirements while at sea

o Distress urgency and safety radio communications

o Sea areas

o Maintenance of radio installation

o Maintenance of satellite EPIRB

o Maritime safety information

GMDSS equipment

o Equipment to be provided on board

o Core installation

o Inmarsat EGC

o NAVTEX

o Satellite EPIRB and VHF EPIRB

o Search and Rescue Transponder (SART)

o Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

o Two-way VHF radio-telephone

Main, emergency and reserve sources of power

Automatic battery chargers

Uninterrupted power supply (UPS)

Certificate

On completion of the training program, the student will be awarded:

A Certificate of SOLAS Safety Radio, issued by Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore.

The Certificate of SOLAS Safety Radio is obtained after completion of the course and passing the online test.

Course goal: This course aims to give personnel the knowledge required to understand the hazards and controls associated with noise in the workplace.

Target Audience: All personnel who could potentially be exposed to noise in the workplace.

Learning Objectives:

LO1 Describe what noise-induced hearing loss is, and identify the early warning signs and symptoms to look out for

LO2 Explain the workings of the human ear, how noise exposure causes damage, and the effects of such damage

LO3 Explain the responsibilities and duties of employers and employees under current legislation

LO4 Explain how noise is measured and identify the noise levels above which employers should take action to reduce exposure

LO5 Explain the risk assessment requirements

LO6 Identify the control measures that should be taken to reduce exposure to noise

LO7 Explain the requirements for hearing protection; how to use the different methods of hearing protection and the importance of maintaining hearing protection

LO8 Explain the importance of healthsurveillance

Who is this course for?

Personnel requiring an awareness or understanding of the common safety methods when using scaffolding over the sea.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to give an overview of requirements for safe scaffolding operations over sea.

How will this course benefit my company?

By ensuring you have an overview of the requirements for the safe use of scaffolding over the sea.

What standards are referred to in this course?

This course does not refer to specific legislation or standards but is written according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Course goal: This course aims to increase learners’ awareness of the risks, and consequences, of slips, trips and falls in the workplace and the control measures and steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls, based on industry best practice.

Target Audience: All onshore and offshore personnel

Learning Objectives

LO1 Outline the extent of the problem of slips, trips and falls at work

LO2 Identify the causes of slips, trips and falls

LO3 Describe the importance of following regulatory requirements to help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls occurring

LO4 Explain the duties of employers in preventing slips, trips and falls in the workplace

LO5 Explain the hierarchy of controls in preventing, and reducing, the risk of slips

LO6 Explain the actions that can be taken to prevent and reduce the risk of trips

LO7 Explain the responsibilities of employees in preventing slips, trips and falls

Who is this course for?
Offshore Marine Technicians

Is previous experience required?
You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role

How will this course benefit me?
This course provides an introduction to radar systems and their use within the Oil and Gas Industry.

How will this course benefit my company?
By ensuring you are aware of the how phase behaviour and multiphase flow regimes can impact on hydrocarbon delivery.

What standards are referred to in this course?
N/A

Is there an assessment?
Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Who is this course for?

Trainee Refinery Technicians.

Is previous experience required?

You do not need prior knowledge or experience to complete this course and it is assumed that you are competent in your designated role.

How will this course benefit me?

This course aims to provide an overview of safe furnace operations.

How will this course benefit my company?

By ensuring you have an overview of safe furnace operations.

What standards are referred to in this course?

The course is made according to industry best practice.

Is there an assessment?

Once you have completed the course, you will be asked a series of questions to check your knowledge and understanding. These are based on the learning objectives for the course and have a pass mark of 80%.

Stress is our body's way of responding to physical, emotional, or mental demands. Although typically associated with negative circumstances, stress can be caused by both good and bad experiences. Our bodies react to stress by releasing chemicals into the blood to give us energy and strength to handle the situation. This evolutionary reaction can be a good thing when stress is caused by real physical danger; however, this survival response can wreak havoc if it builds up without a proper outlet. This interactive online course discusses signs and symptoms of stress, and explains the physical and emotional effects of built up stress, such as pain and anxiety. The course also describes stress management techniques, treatment options, and lifestyle changes to help alleviate stress.