Innovative Training for Polar Marine Crews

Captain George McShea, VP operations; and training director Frank Lee have announced that Polar Marine is sending its AB’s to MarineSafety International (MSI) San Diego to become proficient as Radar Observers and ARPA operators. This new and unique approach was developed by Polar Marine to enable their Able Bodied (AB) seamen to better participate as watchstanders on their Millennium tankers. The Polar Endeavor Class vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art Integrated Bridge Systems (IBS). The well-trained ABs will assure optimum utilization of the IBS and further increase the safety of ship operations. When underway, the ABs’ stand a lookout watch day and night on the ship’s Bridge. Due to severe weather conditions in many operational areas, the bridges are fully enclosed from wing to wing. Although they do not relieve the Watch Officer of responsibility, a better-trained Lookout will be better able to assist the Watch Officer in identifying contacts and assessing threats. MarineSafety International will conduct the 9-day combined Radar Observer and ARPA course at its San Diego Simulator Center. MSI instructors, certified by the USCG under STCW guidelines, will train students in the theory of radar operation, Rules of the Road, rapid radar plotting and relative motion as part of the Radar Observer Course. An examination will be given at the end of the course. ARPA training will include theory and systems practical exercises and a USCG approved comprehensive final examination. Graduation from the 9-day course will culminate with the awarding of Radar Observer and ARPA certificates recognized by the USCG.