Marine Training Policy

Appropriate and effective training and the associated knowledge and skill of marine personnel are essential elements that enable the facilitation and management of navigational safety.  To that end, and in compliance with the requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC), the Port of London Authority (PLA) shall:

• Adopt the levels of knowledge and skill for marine personnel associated with the international, national and local standards in support of the PMSC or demonstrate and document that any standards adopted are fully equivalent;
• Ensure that adequate resources are made available to maintain the established standards of knowledge and skill required by marine personnel;
• Assess the suitability of all persons appointed to positions with responsibility for safety of navigation to ensure the required standards of knowledge and skill are met;
• Ensure that all marine personnel are competent to perform the duties allocated to them and are encouraged to develop their skills and expertise beyond that immediately necessary to perform their primary functions so that they are well equipped and prepared for further advancement and career development;
• Establish and maintain an appropriate and effective ongoing schedule of marine training for PLA staff;
• Promote the involvement of port users, allied services and other stakeholders in the PLA training programme as necessary;
• Facilitate and encourage exchange training and familiarisation between different marine disciplines as required;
• Establish and maintain an effective ongoing schedule of emergency management and response training and exercises;
• Establish a regular review and assessment programme of all PLA marine training to ensure that standards are maintained, and that training is appropriate, relevant and cost effective;
• Establish appropriate mechanisms and procedures for the assessment of marine personnel and establish an associated assessment appeals process;
• Ensure that personnel involved in the design and facilitation of training and assessment are appropriately qualified;
• Ensure that appropriate training records are maintained.

1st May 2011