DNV takes course certification one step further

2 June 2009

For the first time a complete training programme has been certified by DNV through DNV SeaSkill™, as opposed to the normal certification of single course units. DNV SeaSkill™ has now undertaken certification of Kongsberg Maritime’s navigation and propulsion suites of modular course units.

Says Thomas Jacobsen, DNV SeaSkill`s project manager; "For high-end manufacturers like Kongberg Maritime it is important to have well qualified operators of their equipment, hence the training of future operators of Kongsberg Maritime components become essential. The certification process at Kongsberg Maritime has lasted for almost one year, and has been enlightening for both parties. For the first time DNV SeaSkill™ has certified individual courses (for a single component) as well as combinations of these courses."

"To us this has been a new experience," says David Wendel, head of DNV SeaSkill™. "Our regular certification process is extensive, but this is the first time we also had to consider the complexity involving combinations of course."

Kongsberg Maritime is a well established and experienced course provider serving around five thousand course participants each year. The certification process has nevertheless revealed some challenges.

"Assessments are a bit controversial," says Thomas Jacobsen. "Still, it is crucial that ship owners know that their crews actually have the ability to operate the equipment in a competent manner. Unless assessed training loses much of its meaning."

"An important part of this process has been to take teaching skills more seriously in our organisation," says Business Manager for training in Kongsberg Maritime, Anne Toril Kasin, in a Kongsberg web article. "All course instructors must now attend a teaching course in order to learn how to convey their knowledge in a comprehensible manner."

Kongsberg Maritime regards the co-operation with DNV SeaSkill™ as more than a marketing exercise. "Accrediting courses is not mandatory, though something we chose to do. By having an experienced external party correcting us we gain a reassurance of our performance. DNV SeaSkill™ provides a good standard for accreditation and our cooperation with them has certainly proved very useful," concludes Kongsberg Maritime’s Anne Toril Kasin.

DNV