Maritime English Language Testing ISF Marlins English Language Test for Seafarers Specifically designed for the shipping industry, this internationally renowned test is endorsed by the International Shipping Federation (ISF) as a language assessment tool for seafarers of all levels and departments.
The test is also approved by a number of flag states, including the UK MCA, who require testing to be conducted at a Marlins Approved Test Centre, prior to the issue of a CEC. A number of companies, including cruise lines and oil majors, have also adopted this formal standard for new applicants.
Marlins English Language Test for Cruise Ship Staff This version of the test is for use within the cruise sector, with a particular emphasis on guest interaction and customer service. It is used by cruise lines and recruitment agencies worldwide as a consistent means of screening applicants’ English levels prior to employment / promotion, or for training needs analysis.
Marlins English tests can be used for a variety of purposes, including recruitment, selection for promotion and grouping for subsequent training. Our unique test product gives employers the assurance of a standardised assessment system with results provided immediately. Test results are stored online in a secure database, making them accessible worldwide, 24/7, for review, reporting and validation. Testing is normally carried out online, however we do offer an offline option, if required.
Marlins English Language Test for Offshore Workers Set in the context of the offshore oil and gas industry, this test is designed for non-marine workers on rigs and other offshore installations. It focuses on the candidate’s ability to understand English in a safety context, rather than assessing any specialist technical skills. The test is suitable for all nationalities and positions.
For more information about our testing, including policy guidance and implementation, please contact info@marlins.co.uk. To begin using tests today, please visit the Marlins Online Test Platform at www.marlinstests.com
Test of Spoken English (TOSE) & Training Workshop The Marlins Test of Spoken English (TOSE) supplements Marlins online English testing. TOSE is used to evaluate a crew member’s ability to communicate effectively, by assessing listening and speaking skills in a one-to-one interview situation. The assessment is conducted by your own trained staff during the recruitment process, with grading carried out immediately on completion. Using a detailed set of descriptors for Spoken Fluency, Spoken Accuracy and Listening Comprehension, combined with Marlins’ assessment methodology, the interviewer is able to evaluate each candidate’s performance. TOSE results complement the online test results and also underline specific areas that would benefit from further training.
ISF Marlins Test of Spoken English for Seafarers
Marlins Test of Spoken English for Cruise Ship Staff
Marlins Test of Spoken English for Offshore Workers
This spoken test is designed to test language communication skills within a maritime safety context. UK MCA and other flag state authorities have endorsed TOSE as evidence of demonstrating spoken English language competence in application for CECs.
This has been designed to test the practical communication skills of marine hotel staff. Contexts and situations are based on the range of positions on board. Questions focus on the language required in customer service contexts, e.g. in the restaurant, the reception, room service, the spa, etc.
This test is set within the context of the offshore oil and gas industry. It focuses on the ability to understand English in a safety context as opposed to testing specialist technical skills. It is suitable for all nationalities and positions.
Marlins provides training for assessors and helps with implementing TOSE. This is essential to ensure standardisation with Marlins and UK MCA requirements and to provide consistency between organisations. TOSE training is a one-day, practical workshop delivered at the client’s premises or recruitment centre(s) for up to four participants per day. Each participant practises ‘live’ interviews and receives individual feedback.
Approved Test Centre (ATC) Inspection Marlins has a network of over 180 Approved Test Centres (ATCs) across 40 countries worldwide. These ATCs include shipping companies, academies and manning agents who have agreed to maintain minimum testing standards as set by Marlins and the UK MCA. If your company would like to join the Marlins ATC network, a Marlins representative will visit your office to carry out a half-day inspection. We will review your testing facilities and record keeping, as well as ensuring that testing administrators are fully appraised of our requirements. For a full list of members of our Approved Test Centre network, please visit www.marlins.co.uk
What is the difference between an approved and a standard Marlins certificate? Since May 2013, Marlins has issued two distinctly different certificate formats, to provide quality assurance to companies and flag states. This also allows individuals and other companies to continue using the test for practice, training or internal purposes. Any individual or company, anywhere in the world, can purchase and take a test, and then print a standard certificate. Since there is no guarantee of testing standards, flag states will not accept this format. Only candidates who attend Approved Test Centres will receive the approved certificate format, which is strictly required by flag states and a number of cruise lines and oil majors.
Approved Format
Standard Format
Maritime English Language Training The Marlins Study Packs offer a practical solution to companies, maritime training centres and individuals who are required to meet the English Language Training standards of STCW and the ISM Code. Both Study Packs are authored by the original contributors to the IMO Module Course 3.17. They are comprehensive, stand-alone courses that promote the practical use of English for realistic communication. They can be adapted for classroom-based training or used for independent study at sea or on shore. Both Study Packs are flexible language training tools that reflect the competencies for English communication skills set out in STCW.
Study Pack 1
Study Pack 2
Marlins Study Pack 1 is a complete self-study package designed for seafarers who have already attained an elementary understanding of English. Study Pack 1 incorporates 21 units of text and tasks. The accompanying audio CD includes recordings featuring a wide range of international accents.
Marlins Study Pack 2 is suitable for seafarers at lower intermediate language level and above. This is a complete and comprehensive self-study package which can be used independently or as a continuation of Marlins Study Pack 1. Detailed learning support and self-assessment tasks are included, designed to support the independent learner.
Teacher’s Notes for Study Pack 1 Teacher’s Notes are available to accompany Study Pack 1. These comprehensive notes give detailed guidance for optimising the Study Pack in the classroom, with valuable information and helpful, practical ideas for the teacher.
Study Pack 1 Progress Test The Marlins Study Pack 1 Progress Test allows seafarers to monitor and record their own progress and permits employers to verify the overall language progress of their crew.
Study Pack 2 includes two audio CDs: recordings of a wide range of international accents help to develop pronunciation practice as well as listening skills.
eLearning Suite for Seafarers The Marlins eLearning Suite for Seafarers is a series of training courses focused on the continuous professional development of seagoing personnel, covering key technical, safety and regulatory topics. It is maintained in consultation with a variety of industry stakeholders, including vessel compliance departments, flag state authorities, P&I clubs, NGOs and partners, such as International Paint, Martek Marine and SeaTec Safety. All courses in the suite have been developed as interactive elearning with the aim of engaging the
learner and allowing them to study at their own pace. With over 120+ hours of material across 50+ titles, the subject matter is regularly reviewed and updated, ensuring the latest policies and rules are explained accurately and clearly. Courses can be provided to your crew via a number of means, including our online/offline Learning Management System (LMS); using PC/Mac/ tablet; your own company LMS; or a vessel server installation.
Approved STCW Courses
Inspection & Maintenance
Energy & Fuel
• Security Awareness • Security Duties • Crowd Management • Crisis Management
• Roles & Responsibilities of the Safety Officer • Painting & Surfaces • Masters’ Weekly Checks • Pipeline Inspection & Maintenance • Fire Fighting Equipment & Maintenance • Port State Control
• Fuel Management • Low Sulphur Fuel • Safe Bunkering • Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP)
Deck & Navigation • Secure Anchoring & Effective Inspection • Navigation Standards • ECDIS Company Specific • Safe Mooring
Safety Series • Risk Assessment • Toolbox Talks • Accident Investigation • Behavioural Safety • Slips, Trips and Falls • Enclosed Spaces • Gas Detectors • Isolation Control
Hotel Services • Catering for Galley Staff • Hygiene for Galley Staff
Cargo Handling • IMDG Code for Bulk Carriers • Venting Systems on Oil Tankers • Venting Systems on Chemical Tankers • Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) • Tank Cleaning for Oil Tankers
Environmental Matters • Environmental Awareness • Oily Water Separators • Environmental Record Keeping • Vessel General Permit (VGP) 2013 • VOC Emission Control
Course demonstrations are available on request – please contact info@marlins.co.uk
Emergency Response • SOPEP/SMPEP Response • Lifeboat Training • Search and Rescue (SAR) • Humanitarian Response • Piracy
Crew Wellbeing • Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) • Cold Weather Operations • Crew Health & Welfare in Tropical Climates • Hours of Work & Rest • Fatigue Management • Diversity & Inclusion at Sea
Business Conduct • Business Ethics for Seafarers • Cyber Security
Humanitarian Response
ARE YOUR CREW PREPARED? In recent years, we have seen a large increase in the number of refugees and migrants taking to small boats. They do this as a means of escaping to what they see as a better life for themselves and their families or as a result of persecution in their home country. This has been particularly true in the Mediterranean and Andaman Seas where thousands of refugees and migrants have had to be rescued. Unfortunately, thousands have also died.
+44 (0)141 305 1370
As mariners, we are obligated both legally and morally to assist others at sea who are in distress. Are we as prepared as we could be to provide the assistance that is required, particularly if those who need assistance are not seafarers? This course has been developed in partnership with Human Rights at Sea and will help you to understand the demands that will be placed on you and your crew members if you are ever called on to assist in a mass rescue operation.
info@marlins.co.uk
www.marlins.co.uk
Deck, Navigation & Security Secure Anchoring and Inspection Course Duration: 2 hrs
Anchoring operations are one of the more frequent major shipboard operations, but still result in a significant number of incidents, many of which are avoidable. This course covers anchor watches, maintenance routines and how to anchor efficiently and safely in order to prevent anchor loss. Effective inspection is explored in detail, as this is key to the early identification of anchoring system problems.
Safe Mooring
Course Duration: 2.5 hrs
Mooring a vessel is one of the most safety-critical shipboard operations. In recent years, although only 5% of MAIB investigations have related to mooring operations, all of these incidents have resulted in one or more fatalities or serious injuries. Safe Mooring explains the potential hazards associated with mooring operations and outlines best practice to minimise the risks involved.
Security Awareness Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Security Awareness is intended for seafarers and crew who do not have designated security duties, including all support and concession staff. This course provides the learner with the knowledge to enhance maritime security awareness by recognising security threats and methods of maintaining vigilance. The Security Awareness course is flag approved by the UK MCA, Isle of Man and LISCR in accordance with STCW section A-VI/6 paragraph 4.
Security Duties
Course Duration: 2 hrs
With the new Manila amendments to STCW, all crew members with designated security duties are required to have undertaken a course in security duties. This course provides the learner with the knowledge to recognise security threats, understand the need for and methods of maintaining vigilance. This course is flag approved by the UK MCA, Isle of Man and LISCR in accordance with STCW section A-VI/6 paragraphs 6-8.
Cargo Handling Carriage of Dangerous Cargoes in Bulk Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
The SOLAS Convention deals with the mandatory provisions for the bulk carriage of dangerous goods, with provisions contained in the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC Code). This course introduces the learner to hazards associated with bulk cargoes and provides an overview of the SOLAS requirements, documentation and procedures involving dangerous cargoes in bulk.
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Hazardous Materials covers the handling of dangerous goods in containers, taking the learner through the legal aspects of handling such goods, from container construction through to use of the IMDG Code. Other topics include the safe handling and stowage of dangerous goods, loading plans including classification and segregation, and emergency procedures, such as fires and medical emergencies.
Venting Systems on Oil Tankers Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Venting of tanks during cargo-related operations must be carried out in accordance with applicable international, national and port regulations. This course has been developed for deck officers serving on oil tankers to give a clear understanding of the loading and unloading operations, associated safety precautions, the importance of maintenance and inspections, and the purpose of both primary and secondary venting systems.
Venting Systems on Chemical Tankers Course Duration: 1 hr
Venting of tanks during cargo-related operations must be carried out in accordance with applicable international, national and port regulations. This course has been developed for deck officers serving on chemical tankers to give a clear understanding of the loading and unloading operations, associated safety precautions, the importance of maintenance and inspections, and the purpose of both primary and secondary venting systems.
Tank Cleaning for Oil Tankers Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Tank cleaning is an essential activity on oil tankers that can carry significant risk if procedures are not followed correctly. This course provides an understanding of the science behind tank atmospheres as well as explaining the tank cleaning process. Topics include principles of electrostatics, safety hazards, possible undesired reactions and correct tank cleaning procedures.
Energy and Fuel Safe Bunkering
Course Duration: 2 hrs
Bunkering is a routine operation, but demands careful consideration, planning and oversight. This course contains three modules which cover all stages of planning, preparation, loading, sampling and securing. The course also introduces learners to malpractices such as bunker fraud and advises how to prevent this.
Low Sulphur Fuel Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Low sulphur fuel is required by MARPOL Annex VI, European Union Directives, North American ECAs (covering Canada & US Caribbean Sea areas) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). All equipment must run on fuel with sulphur content less than 0.1%, requiring low viscosity distillates such as DMA. This course covers the requirements for low sulphur fuel and how it affects shipboard staff.
Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) Course Duration: 2 hrs
SEEMP became a mandatory tool in 2013 and training is an essential part of the requirement. This course guides seafarers and vessel operators on how to reduce energy consumption on board and implement a SEEMP, covering the purpose of SEEMP, the main energy efficiencies that will be recorded and monitored and how to reduce them, optimising energy use and improving efficiency.
Fuel Management Course Duration: 2 hrs
Fuel management is the handling of fuel from the moment it crosses the bulwark until it is burned. Getting it right is essential for the safe and efficient operation of the ship. This course covers why fuel management is required, the fuel system, the quality and types of fuel (ISO 8217), bunkering, sampling and storage, purifying fuel, filters and supply.
Inspection and Maintenance Painting and Surfaces Course Duration: 1 hr
Developed in partnership with International Paint, this course covers all aspects of how to effectively implement an onboard maintenance programme. Topics include the importance of maintaining all surfaces on board, the practicalities of painting, and recognising that good husbandry will not only maintain the cosmetic appearance of a ship, but will also minimise corrosion and hence reduce the work required during dry-dock.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Safety Officer Course Duration: 2.5 hrs
Many countries have a specific requirement for the Safety Officer to have training in their role, but even where this is not legislated, it should form an important part of the training matrix for a company aiming to prioritise safety. This course explores the main responsibilities of the Safety Officer, providing practical advice for effective performance in their role.
Master’s Weekly Checks Course Duration: 1.75 hrs
A weekly inspection is the chance for the Master to inspect their vessel on a regular basis, with the main aim being to maintain health, welfare and safety standards for crew, ensuring the ship is MLC compliant. This course covers the importance of the weekly inspection, giving practical advice on what needs to be inspected, identifying deficiencies and suggesting how to best rectify any problems.
Pipeline Inspection and Maintenance Course Duration: 1.25 hr
Pipelines have a number of functions on board the vessel and when one fails, the impact can be severe. Due to its location, pipework can often be neglected, causing major disruption and costly repairs should it fail. This course, produced in partnership with Tthe Standard Club, offers a practical guide of the types of pipework that can be found on board as well as common areas of failure.
Fire Fighting Equipment and Maintenance Course Duration: 2 hrs
Developed in partnership with Fire-Aid International, this course provides learners with detailed information about the fire fighting equipment typically found on board. It provides the learner with the information required to carry out basic checks and maintenance, helping to ensure that the same equipment is ready for use without delay, should it be required in an emergency.
Emergency Response SOPEP/SMPEP Response Course Duration: 2 hrs
Being properly prepared for an oil spill or incident can make the difference between a minor, correctly-handled event and a major international news story. This course gives learners an understanding of the purpose and function of the Shipboard Oil and Pollution Emergency Plan, identifying regulatory requirements and familiarising with sections of the plan. The course includes a scenario-based exercise to put the plan into action.
Search and Rescue (SAR) Course Duration:1.5 hrs
There are a daily average of two major incidents of fire, flood, grounding or collision at sea, with the assistance of fellow seafarers potentially making the difference between life and death. This course provides an overview of search and rescue (SAR) requirements and techniques, including MRCC and inter-ship liaison, search patterns and general procedures.
Humanitarian Response Course Duration: 2 hrs
Developed in conjunction with independent charity, Human Rights At Sea, this course explains reasons why migrants and refugees choose a sea route. Based on practical experience and leading industry advice, this course provides guidance on planning and preparing vessel and crew for potential involvement in large scale rescue operations, as well as providing suggestions for crew directly involved in the rescue of large numbers of migrants or refugees at sea.
Lifeboat Training Course Duration: 4 hrs
Lifeboat equipment is designed to save lives, but has in fact caused fatalities due to poor maintenance and lack of understanding of its correct operation. This course covers typical arrangements and equipment on board, including use of Fall Prevention Devices (FPDs), safe operation of lifeboats, and inspection, maintenance and certification requirements.
Safety Matters Slips, Trips and Falls Course Duration: 1 hr
Slips, trips and falls are the most common type of accident on board. This course provides an overview of typical hazards and describes the means for their prevention and management, including how good housekeeping, correct footwear and practical ship design can all help to prevent slips, trips and falls.
Enclosed Spaces
Course Duration: 2 hrs
It is not known exactly how many seafarers, surveyors and stevedores have died in enclosed spaces on board, but the estimate is dozens of fatalities every year. This course examines what an enclosed space is and how to recognise one, the procedures for entering an enclosed space, and the procedures for conducting an enclosed space rescue.
Gas Detectors
Course Duration: 1 hr
Using and maintaining the correct type of gas detector is a key tool in the prevention of enclosed space incidents. Developed in partnership with Martek Marine, this course covers the safety features and correct use of various types of detectors, including where and when each type of detector should be used.
Toolbox Talks
Course Duration: 45 mins
The lack of a toolbox talk is commonly cited as the root cause of many accidents on board. This course helps supervisors and team members to understand the principle of a toolbox talk and how it should be conducted, in order to ensure crew members are fully briefed and to allow for any questions to be asked before beginning a task.
Accident Investigation Course Duration: 2 hrs
Accident investigation and reporting are vital components of a safety management system, and a detailed, well-run investigation will prevent recurrences, reduce financial losses and help to save lives. This course covers the nature of accidents and how they occur, interview techniques and a provides a step-by-step guide for carrying out an effective investigation.
Risk Assessment Series Course Duration: 2 hrs
Risk assessment, combined with a good permit-to-work system, allows organisations to reduce the likelihood or impact of an accident. This course, aimed at support level crew, examines the aims and benefits of conducting a risk assessment, outlines the key stages in carrying out effective risk assessment and provides a guide to completing a risk assessment.
Crew Preparation & Hotel Services Cold Weather Operations Course Duration: 3.5 hrs
Operating vessels in cold weather environments brings a number of challenges and additional considerations. This course covers the safe operation of the deck and engine departments in cold weather; how to handle an emergency situation; and vessel-specific requirements when operating in cold weather.
Crew Health and Welfare in Tropical Climates Course Duration: 1.75 hrs
When travelling through tropical regions, it is important for crew members to be aware of the significant health risks typically associated with the hot climate. This course covers such health risks, describing the different types of illnesses and tropical diseases, their signs and symptoms, how they are transmitted and how best to treat, report and prevent them.
Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
MLC brought together all existing maritime labour conventions with the fundamental principles found in various international labour conventions. This course provides an outline of MLC and its application to crew processes, assisting Masters and Senior Officers in the interpretation of the Convention and providing practical guidance on its implementation.
Business Ethics for Seafarers Course Duration: 2 hrs
International legislation such as the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and UK Bribery Act requires companies to demonstrate that adequate procedures are in place to minimise the opportunities for bribery by employees and agents. This course provides the learner with an explanation of bribery legislation through real-life examples and practical scenarios.
Catering for Galley Staff Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
It is the Chief Cook’s responsibility to ensure that all food that is served is nutrutionally balanced, suited to the crew’s needs and provides value for money for the shipping company. This course looks at the various different preparation and cooking methods. Included within the course are 16 cooking videos and 140 recipes.
Hygiene for Galley Staff Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Food handlers have an ethical responsibility to safeguard food so that it does not cause illness or harm. Galley workers are directly responsible for ensuring that the food served on board not only tastes good but is also safe. This course looks at the hygiene requirements that are associated with the handling and preparation of food on board.
Shore-based Staff Training Marine Safety for Non-Seafarers Course Duration: 2 hrs
The marine environment is dangerous enough for an experienced seafarer, but consider how confusing it is for an uninitiated colleague. This course has been developed for shore-based staff and contractors, usually with little or no seagoing experience, who may need to visit a vessel for some reason. It includes vessel familiarisation, common hazards, risk management and PPE. A classroom workshop and handbook are also available.
Business Ethics Course Duration: 2 hrs
International legislation such as the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and UK Bribery Act requires companies to demonstrate that adequate procedures are in place to minimise the opportunities for bribery by employees and agents. This course provides the learner with an explanation of bribery legislation through reallife examples and practical scenarios. As with all our courses, Business Ethics can be customised, e.g. by incorporating your company’s anti-corruption policies and procedures.
Introduction to Shipping Industry Course Duration: 2.5 hrs
Port or starboard? Officer or rating? Bulker or tanker? For new members of shore staff with no seagoing experience, the world of shipping is a confusing web of jargon, acronyms and unfamiliar concepts. This course provides the learner with a basic understanding of the industry they will be working in and the role that how shipping plays in the global economy. It also explains the life of a seafarer on board, including their day-to-day duties and operations and offers an introduction to some of the international regulations and rules of shipping.
Environmental Matters Environmental Awareness Course Duration: 2.5 hrs
As with most forms of transportation, shipping is a contributor to global pollution and can have a number of effects on the environment, which pose a long-term threat to the planet. This course highlights international rules and regulations to prevent or reduce pollution, as well as covering types and sources of pollution and highlighting good practice to reduce environmental impact.
Oily Water Separators (OWS)
Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
The improper use or deliberate bypass of oily water separators means significant fines for owners and operators. This course explores environmental problems caused by oil pollution, common issues with oily water separators and how they and oil content monitors work - raising awareness of all aspects of this important piece of equipment.
Environmental Record Keeping Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Failure to accurately complete records such as the Oil Record Book, Deck and Sounding Logs and Garbage Record Books can result in PSC detentions, fines and imprisonment; in fact, over $133m in fines have been issued to date for incorrect or fraudulent completion of such documents. This course highlights the importance of accurate record keeping, together with case studies of high profile incidents and criminal cases.
Vessel General Permit (VGP) 2013 Course Duration: 2 hrs
The US Environmental Protection Agency’s Vessel General Permit (VGP) imposes stringent requirements for the control of waste from ships in US waters together with fines and criminal prosecutions for non-compliance. Aimed at both sea and shore staff, this course covers the documentation, training and inspection requirements, as well as ship and company-specific operations such as bunkering and ballast operations.
VOC Emission Control Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Every tanker carrying crude oil products must implement a vessel-specific plan, concerning the emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) under MARPOL Revised Annex VI. This course covers the definition of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), a summary of the legislation regarding VOC minimisation, the options and best practice for VOC emission control, and the use of the VOC calculation form.
Bespoke eLearning Bespoke design Can’t find what you want off the shelf? Marlins offers tailor-made eLearning, video and testing modules to meet your company’s needs for both sea and shore staff. We also work closely with our sister company SeaTec Safety (www.seatec-services.com/operational-safety) to create specific technical training on request.
Company Induction for Seafarers Course Duration: 2 hrs
As well as the ISM requirement for all companies to have an SMS detailing their operating procedures, Chapter 6 of the ISM Code requires all crew to be fully conversant with the SMS and their duties. This course topic is fully customisable, allowing companies to train their crew members in the specifics of their SMS and company policies. Once implemented, the course can also be used to support ISO:9001 accreditation.
ECDIS Company-Specific Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
The timetable for mandatory carriage of ECDIS is progressing and the requirement for comprehensive training cannot be understated. This course has been designed to complement both the generic IMO Model Course 1.27 (“The Operational use of ECDIS”) and type-specific ECDIS system training, consolidating lessons learnt and outlining company-specific rules and procedures.
Navigation Standards Course Duration: 1.5 hrs
Maintaining high standards of navigation is at the core of any shipping company’s business, since the cost of collision or grounding could be catastrophic. This course refreshes navigation principles and COLREGs application, as well as reinforcing the importance of non-technical skills such as leadership, attitude and motivation. Customisations include highlighting company-specific standards, procedures and the use of checklists.