The changes adopted during the diplomatic conference may have an impact on mariners wishing to pass the Coast Guard tests and deck exam. The amendments, known as the “Manila Amendments to the STCW (http://www.stcwonline.com/
New Regulations for Administering Coast Guard Tests
If you’re seeking STCW-95 certification for work with the U.S. Coast Guard, you’ll need to pass the Coast Guard tests and deck exam during the courses. The 2012 STCW code revision improved measures to prevent fraud in the administration of these tests and certification for compliance.
There were also new requirements made necessary for able seafarers, including training requirements related to technological advances, environmental awareness, and leadership and teamwork skills. Specific professions may also have new requirements beyond deck exams, such as electro-technical officers.
Most of the new requirements and changes are due to advances in technology, updates to specific industries or professions, and recent developments in maritime safety concerns, such as the rise in piracy.
Resolutions that May Affect Your STCW-95 Certification Deck Exam
There were many resolutions passed at the conference, 2 of which adopted the numerous amendments to the current STCW code. Additional amendments were also passed that may impact the Coast Guard tests (http://www.stcwonline.com/
For masters and officers of ships operating in polar waters, there was an amendment to develop measures to ensure competency in safety and procedures. There were also amendments to address promotion of women in the maritime industry and accommodations for trainees.
The latter 2 amendments could be important to new mariners seeking employment within the U.S. Coast Guard because it potentially can create new structure for the exams.
Other amendment highlights include promoting the role of the World Maritime University and International Maritime Organization International Maritime Law Institute in enhancing maritime standards for safety, security and the environment.
Preparing for Your Coast Guard Tests and Deck Exam
All in all, the major thing to understand about the recent changes to the code is that the International Maritime Organization is putting a greater emphasis on bringing the maritime industry into the 21st century. Many of the amendments to the code and resolutions focused on continued integration and support of developing technology within the maritime industry.
Both tests may change over time to incorporate more technologically based knowledge, regardless of your profession. Some form of technology is nearly always present in any maritime job position, so even the basic exam may see changes in the latest tests and courses.
It’s important to keep informed of the latest changes to the tests and exams when you’re preparing to become STCW-95 certified. One of the best ways to get prepared is to take practice tests that are up-to-date with the latest focuses and changes in certification.
The Coast Guard exams can be difficult, especially if you haven’t taken written exams in quite a few years. There are many online resources available to mariners to help prepare them for any new exams that may be required for technology-dependent professions.
Prepare for Your Deck Exam and Coast Guard Tests
Receiving a STCW certification could be your ticket to a better maritime profession – but only if you pass the STCW-95 courses! The exams can be frustrating ordeals, especially if you haven’t been in an academic setting for quite some time.
At STCW Online, we offer practice tests to help prepare U.S. mariners for their certification. If you want to improve your chances of passing the written portions of these exams, visit our website to sign up for your FREE membership. We offer you access to practice tests, study aids, classroom instruction and test locations, our online forum, and maritime job opportunities.
Sign up for Free memebreshiop at: http://www.stcwonline.com/#
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Maritime accidents are an unfortunate part of working at a harbor or shipyard, or on a tug boat/barge or oil rig. When your job places you near the water where you are employed in a maritime trade you’re covered by the Jones Act Law
