Directions as to the Examination of Engineer Officers, Marine Engine Operators and Engine Room Watch Ratings under the Merchant Shipping Acts.

Directions as to the Examination of Engineer Officers, Marine Engine Operators and Engine Room Watch Ratings under the Merchant Shipping Acts. Effective from September 2010

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Preamble: Certain changes were made to the examination structure and issue of Marine Engineering certificates of competency (CoC) in order to comply with the requirements of the Seafarer s Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code as amended by the STCW Conference in 1995 (STCW 95). These changes took full effect on 1 February 2002 and from this date all engineer officer certificates of competency must be issued in accordance with STCW 95 to retain their validity. Engineer Officers holding certificates issued before this date which have not been issued in accordance with the 1995 amendments must surrender these certificates for revalidation if they wish their certificates to remain valid for sea service. 1.1 These directions, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007, made under Section 3 of the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Seamen) Act, 1979, specify the standards of competency and the conditions to be satisfied before Engineer Officer Certificates of Competency, Marine Engine Operator Licences and Engine Room Watch Rating Certificates are issued. ENGINEER OFFICER CERTIFICATES ISSUED UNDER THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION REGULATIONS ARE ISSUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS, 1978, AS AMENDED (STCW 95). THESE DIRECTIONS GIVE PARTICULARS OF - a) the conditions of entry to and the conduct of the examinations to be held by the Department of Transport for Certificates of Competency (CoC) and Marine Engine Operator Licences (MEOL) in an Engineering capacity for service in seagoing ships. b) the issue of Certificates of Equivalent Competency (CEC) issued by the Department of Transport which may be accepted as being equivalent to those Certificates of Competency granted by the Department of Transport for service on Irish seagoing ships. c) the issue of Engine Room Watch Rating Certificates.

1.2 1.2.1 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007 provide for the issue of Certificates of Competency (Marine Engineer Officer) as defined in STCW 95 as follows Capacity Propulsive Power Limitation STCW 95 Regulation OOW 750 kw or more III/1 Second Engineer 750 to 2999 kw III/3 3000 kw or more III/2 Chief Engineer 750 to 2999 kw III/3 3000 kw or more III/2 Notes CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY MAY CARRY LIMITATIONS RELATING TO THE SEA AREA IN WHICH THE HOLDER MAY SAIL IN ANY GIVEN CAPACITY. FURTHER LIMITATIONS MAY ALSO BE APPLIED AS THE MINISTER MAY REQUIRE. Certificates of Competency and Certificates of Equivalent Competency are issued in motor, steam or combined (motor and steam) Categories. Certificates of Competency or Certificates of Equivalent Competency for Marine Engineers will be issued with the following functions: Control and operation of the ship and care for persons on board. Marine Engineering Electrical, electronic and control engineering Maintenance and repair Certificates of Competency or Certificates of Equivalent Competency for Marine Engineers will be issued at the following levels: Management: Chief Engineer, Second Engineer Operational: Officer in Charge of the Engineering Watch 1.2.2 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007 provide for the issue of Engine Room Watch Rating Certificates as defined in STCW 95 Regulation III/4 and detailed in Chapter 12. 1.2.3 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007 provide that any person designated to perform watchkeeping duties in a manned or periodically unmanned engine room on a ship powered by main propulsion machinery of 350 kw power or more but less than 750kW shall hold at least the certificate shown in Appendix 1 (Marine Engine Operator Licence). By the term watchkeeping duties also read UMS duties. 1.3 The Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning, Hours of Work & Watchkeeping) Regulations, 1998, as amended provide that every master and seafarer assigned to an Irish ship holds an appropriate certificate in respect of any function he or she is to perform on that ship. The engineer Certificates of Competency required to perform the duties of Chief Engineer, Second Engineer and Engineer Officer of the Watch, from 1 st February 2002, in the various descriptions of ships according to the trading area in which they operate is given in Appendix 1. 1.4 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007 provide that as from 1 st February 2002 a valid Certificate of Competency means any of the following certificates of the appropriate class, or a higher class, for the capacity in which the holder is to be carried in a ship.

Those Certificates not issued under the above regulations in accordance with STCW 95 must be revalidated in order to remain valid for seagoing service:- a. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007. b. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Certificate of Competency, with or without a Service Endorsement, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Marine Engineer Officers and Marine Engine Operators) Regulations, 1988. c. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Certificate of Competency, with or without a Service Endorsement, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Marine Engineer Officers) Regulations, 1981. d. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Certificate of Service issued under the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Marine Engineer Officers) Regulations, 1981. e. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Certificate of Competency issued under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894. f. Certificate of Competency, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Certificate of Service issued under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894. g. Marine Engine Operator Licences, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 in exchange for a Marine Engine Operator Certificate of Qualification issued under the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Marine Engineer Officers and Marine Engine Operators) Regulations, 1988. h. Marine Engine Operator Licences, issued under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 1998 or 2007 1.5 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations, 2007 provide that Certificate of Equivalent Competency endorsements may be issued by the Minister for service on Irish registered ships. 1.6 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 2007 also provide that a ship to which those Regulations apply, which has a bulk cargo specified in whole or in part as being a dangerous cargo, carry a Chief Engineer Officer and a Second Engineer Officer, who in addition to holding appropriate Certificates of Competency shall satisfy such additional requirements as the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 2007 and these directions may specify. Further explanation is given in Chapter 10 of these directions. 1.7 The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations 2007, and therefore these directions, do not apply to Masters and seafarers employed in fishing vessels and pleasure craft except in so far as equivalent training schemes or sea service may be accepted. In addition certain other ships may be exempted by the Minister for Transport from the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning, Hours of Work and Watchkeeping) Regulations 1998. 1.8 Any reference in these directions to "he" includes "she" and to "him"/"his" includes "her"/"hers". 1.9 Any Certificate of Competency, Certificate of Equivalent Competency or Marine Engine Operator Licence referred to in these Directions is a Certificate or Licence issued by or on behalf

of the Minster for Transport. Such Certificates may only be issued when all of the conditions relating to the issue of the Certificate have been met in accordance with these Directions. Certificates are issued by the Chief Surveyor of the Marine Survey Office.

CHAPTER 2 CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY - CONDITIONS OF ISSUE 2.1 Certificates of Competency are issued as follows:- 2.1.1 Motor Certificate, qualifying the holder to serve as an engineer officer in the capacities specified, in motor ships, including gas turbine ships, being ships propelled by internal combustion engines. 2.1.2 Steam Certificate, qualifying the holder to serve as an engineer officer in the capacities specified, in steam ships, being ships propelled by steam turbines or by steam reciprocating engines. 2.1.3 Combined Certificate, qualifying the holder to serve as an engineer officer in the capacities specified in both motor ships and steamships. 2.2 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch, motor or steam, (STCW Reg III/1) and Second Engineer (STCW Reg III/3 ships less than 3000 kw, NCA) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.2.1 be not less than 18 years of age and; 2.2.2 satisfy the initial training requirements set out in Chapter 3 or Chapter 13 and; 2.2.3 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 and; 2.2.4 have successfully completed an approved on board training record book such as the International Shipping Federation (ISF) On Board Training Record Book for Engineer Cadets, or equivalent, and submit the book and projects to the NMCI/Examiner of Engineers for evaluation and; 2.2.5 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years ( Reg I/9) and; 2.2.6 provide evidence of having completed basic training in accordance with Appendix 7 within the previous five years (Reg VI/1) and; 2.2.7 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.2.8 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.2.9 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.2.10 be in possession of a certificate verifying satisfactory attendance at an approved maritime training college as detailed in Chapter 6 and; 2.2.11 pass the examinations set out in Chapter 7 Syllabus 3 or; 2.2.12 comply with Chapter 14.

2.3 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Second Engineer, motor or steam, unlimited (STCW Reg III/2) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.3.1 be in possession of an Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch Certificate of Competency valid for service on Irish ships and; 2.3.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 whilst holding that certificate and; 2.3.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.3.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.3.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.3.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.3.7 be in possession of a certificate verifying satisfactory attendance at an approved maritime training college as detailed in Chapter 6 and; 2.3.8 pass the examinations set out in Chapter 7 Syllabus 2. 2.4 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer, motor or steam, unlimited (STCWIII/2) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.4.1 be in possession of a Second Engineer Certificate of Competency valid for service on Irish ships and; 2.4.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 whilst holding that certificate and; 2.4.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.4.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.4.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.4.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.4.7 be in possession of a certificate verifying satisfactory attendance at an approved maritime training college as detailed in Chapter 6 and; 2.4.8 pass the examinations set out in Chapter 7 Syllabus 1.

2.5 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Second Engineer less than 3000 kw, motor or steam, unlimited (STCW Reg III/3) and Second Engineer (STCW Reg III/2, ships of less than 6000 kw, NCA) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.5.1 be in possession of an Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch Certificate of Competency valid for service on Irish ships and; 2.5.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 and; 2.5.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.5.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.5.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.5.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.5.7 Pass the Department of Transport oral examination or; 2.5.8 comply with Chapter 14. 2.6 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer less than 3000kW, motor or steam, unlimited (STCWIII/3) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.6.1 be in possession of a Second Engineer Certificate of Competency valid for service on Irish ships or be in possession of an EOOW Certificate of Competency and pass the professional subjects of Syllabus 2 and; 2.6.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 and; 2.6.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.6.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.6.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.6.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.6.7 be in possession of a certificate verifying satisfactory attendance at an approved maritime training college as detailed in Chapter 6 and; 2.6.8 Pass the Department of Transport oral examination or; 2.6.9 comply with Chapter 14

2.7 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer less than 3000kW, motor or steam, NCA (STCWIII/3) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.7.1 be in possession of an EOOW Certificate of Competency and; 2.7.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 and; 2.7.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.7.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.7.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.7.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.7.7 Pass the Department of Transport oral examination or; 2.7.8 comply with Chapter 14. 2.8 To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer less than 6000kW, motor or steam, NCA (STCWIII/3) in Ireland, each candidate must:- 2.8.1 be in possession of a Second Engineer Certificate of Competency valid for service on Irish ships or be in possession of an EOOW Certificate of Competency and pass the professional subjects of Syllabus 2; 2.8.2 have completed the qualifying sea service set out in Chapter 4 and; 2.8.3 hold an approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate for Sea Service issued within the previous two years and; 2.8.4 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in advanced fire fighting and attendance at an approved advanced fire fighting training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/3) and; 2.8.5 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in survival craft and rescue boat operation and attendance at an approved survival craft and rescue boat (other than fast rescue boats) training course (Reg VI/2) and; 2.8.6 be in possession of a certificate verifying proficiency in medical first aid and attendance at an approved medical first aid training course within the previous five years (Reg VI/4) and; 2.8.7 be in possession of a certificate verifying satisfactory attendance at an approved maritime training college as detailed in Chapter 6 and; 2.8.8 Pass the Department of Transport oral examination 2.8 An approved and valid Medical Fitness Certificate may be obtained from an approved Medical Practitioner by meeting the medical fitness requirements of the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Regulations, 2005 (S.I. No. 701 of 2005), or equivalent, acceptable to the

Department of Transport. As the standards may change from time to time candidates should check with the Marine Survey Office, Examinations Department regarding the most recent regulations. 2.9 Every candidate or potential candidate for a Certificate of Competency is strongly advised to obtain a Medical Fitness Certificate before embarking on any training or education course.

CHAPTER 3 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY - INITIAL TRAINING 3.1 Each candidate must have received one of the forms of training specified in this paragraph. 3.1.1 Engineering Cadet Training Scheme: Each such candidate must have satisfactorily completed a course of engineer cadet training approved by the Department of Transport (refer to Appendix 6). This scheme comprises three years study at an approved college and at least nine months training at sea as an engineer cadet. Minimum entry requirement to this course is a satisfactory Leaving Certificate or equivalent and entry is via the Central Applications Office (CAO) system. 3.1.2 Full-time Technical College or University Course: A candidate must have satisfactorily completed a full-time course of study for a relevant engineering degree for a period of not less than three years at a recognised Institute of Technology or University (refer to Appendix 6), together with 12 months engineering training acceptable to the Department of Transport as being of relevance to the duties of a sea-going Engineer Officer. 3.2 Candidates not complying with the requirements of paragraph 3.1 may be considered for entry to the examinations for the Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch Certificate of Competency (STCW 95, Reg. III/1) provided that they comply with the requirements of paragraph 3.2.1, 3.2.2 or 3.2.3 as appropriate. 3.2.1 Engineering Craftsman: A candidate must have satisfactorily completed at least four years training in engineering craft practice to the satisfaction of the Department of Transport or have satisfactorily completed an apprenticeship in engineering craft practice as a registered apprentice with F.A.S. and been awarded a National Craft Certificate (refer to Appendix 6) to the satisfaction of the Department of Transport. 3.2.2 Rating to Officer: Candidates serving onboard ship as engine or general purpose rating should refer to Chapter 13. 3.2.3 Fishing Vessel Engineer to Engineer Officer: Candidates holding Irish fishing vessel Certificates of Competency should refer to Chapter 14. 3.3 Deficiency in training: Any deficiency from the requirements of paragraph 3.1 or 3.2 will be assessed in each case by the Department of Transport and must be made good by suitable training, or by further workshop service of a suitable character, or by compensatory shipboard service as an Engineer Officer or Trainee Engineer as the case may be, to the satisfaction of the Department of Transport 3.3.1 Compensatory shipboard service must be performed in motor or steam ships of not less than 750 kilowatt registered power. Such service may be performed on regular watch or on day work. Compensatory shipboard service performed before the age of nineteen years will not be accepted. 3.4 Workshop service or other industrial training completed before the age of sixteen years will not be accepted. 3.5 Testimonials: Each candidate will be required to produce authoritative testimonials covering all of his training and testimonials should state the name of the employee concerned, the dates of commencement and termination of employment, the capacities in which the person was employed, and give a summary of work undertaken. Testimonials must be signed by the employer or a responsible representative. Testimonials will be returned to candidates when the examination is completed. 3.6 Candidates for Engineer Officer Certificates of Competency will be required to produce documentary evidence of satisfactory attendance at college or other training scheme. An attendance rate of at least 90% is expected. Documentary evidence may be in the form of college attendance records, a letter from a Senior Lecturer verifying satisfactory attendance throughout the entire course, or an employers statement.

Any periods of non attendance are to be covered by an explanatory note, doctors certificate etc. Poor attendance may result in additional seatime being imposed.

CHAPTER 4 CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY - QUALIFYING SEA SERVICE 4.1. To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch (STCW 95 III/1 OOW) and Second Engineer (STCW Reg III/3 ships of less than 3000 kw, NCA), each candidate must, in addition to meeting the initial training requirements set out in Chapter 3, have completed a period of qualifying sea service, whilst under the supervision of a certificated Engineer Officer, in ships of not less than 350 kilowatt registered power as follows:- 4.1.1. Motor Certificate. At least six months, of which at least four months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the main propelling machinery of motor ships. 4.1.2. Steam Certificate. At least six months, of which at least four months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steam ships. 4.1.3. Combined Certificate. At least eight months, of which at least four months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the main propelling machinery of motor ships and at least four months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steam ships. Candidates already in possession of an OOW Certificate in motor or steam ships will be required to have at least four months seatime in ships of the machinery type not already endorsed on their Certificate. 4.2. To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Second Engineer (STCW 95 III/2, ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more, unlimited area) and/or Chief Engineer (STCW III/3 ships of less than 3000 kw propulsion power, NCA or unlimited area) each candidate must have completed a period of qualifying sea service, whilst qualified to serve as an EOOW, in ships of not less than 750 kilowatt registered power as follows:- 4.2.1 Motor Certificate. At least twelve months, of which at least nine months must have been spent in watchkeeping or similar duties on the main propelling machinery of motor ships. The remaining period may have been spent in watchkeeping or similar duties on the main propelling or auxiliary machinery of motor or steam ships or on day work. 4.2.2 Steam Certificate. At least twelve months, of which at least nine months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steam ships. The remaining period may have been spent in watchkeeping on the main propelling or auxiliary machinery of motor or steam ships or on day work. 4.2.3 Combined Certificate. At least eighteen months, of which at least nine months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the main propelling machinery of motor ships and at least nine months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steamships. Candidates already in possession of a Second Engineer Certificate at this level in motor or steam ships will be required to have at least nine months seatime in ships of the machinery type not already endorsed on their Certificate. 4.3. To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Second Engineer (STCW 95 III/3, ships powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 kw and 3000 kw, unlimited area) and Second Engineer (STCW Reg III/2 ships of less than 6000 kw NCA) each candidate must have completed a period of qualifying sea service, in ships of not less than 350 kilowatt registered power as follows:- 4.3.1 Motor Certificate. Twelve months, of which at least three months must have been spent in watchkeeping or similar duties on the main propelling machinery of motor ships whilst in possession of an OOW Certificate. The remaining period may have been spent in watchkeeping, daywork or similar duties on the main propelling or

auxiliary machinery of motor ships as qualifying sea service towards the issue of an OOW Certificate. 4.3.2 Steam Certificate. Twelve months, of which at least three months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steam ships whilst in possession of an OOW Certificate. The remaining period may have been spent in watchkeeping, daywork or similar duties on the main propelling or auxiliary machinery of steam ships as qualifying sea service towards the issue of an OOW Certificate. 4.3.3 Combined Certificate. Twelve months, of which at least three months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the main propelling machinery of motor ships and at least three months must have been spent in watchkeeping on the boilers and main propelling machinery of steam ships both of which whilst in possession of an OOW Certificate. The remaining period may have been spent in watchkeeping, daywork or similar duties on the main propelling or auxiliary machinery of motor or steam ships as qualifying sea service towards the issue of an OOW Certificate. Candidates already in possession of a Second Engineer Certificate at this level in motor or steam ships will be required to have at least three months seatime in ships of the machinery type not already endorsed on their Certificate. 4.4. To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer (STCW 95 III/2, ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more, unlimited area) each candidate must have completed at least 36 months of qualifying sea service since obtaining the OOW certificate subject to the following: 4.5.1 Motor Certificate. At least twelve months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in motor ships whilst qualified to serve as Second Engineer Officer in ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more (STCW 95 III/2). Of this twelve months at least 9 months must have been spent as an engineer officer in charge of a watch in motor ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more. 4.5.2 Steam Certificate. At least twelve months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in steam ships whilst qualified to serve as Second Engineer Officer in ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more (STCW 95 III/2). Of this twelve months at least 9 months must have been spent as an engineer officer in charge of a watch in steam ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more. 4.5.3 Combined Certificate. At least eighteen months, of which at least nine months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in steam ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more and at least nine months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in motor ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more. Both periods must be spent whilst qualified to serve as Second Engineer Officer in motor and/or steam ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more (STCW 95 III/2). For candidates already qualified as Chief Engineer III/2 (3000kw propulsion power or more) at least six months must have been spent as an engineer officer in charge of the watch in ships of the type for which the endorsement is sought.

4.5.4 Whilst holding a Second Engineer Officer Certificate for ships of not less than 3000 kw (STCW 95 III/2) the specified 9 months which should have been spent in charge of a watch in ships of 3000 kw propulsion power or more will be accepted at half rate provided such service has been performed in ships of 1,500 kilowatt and over but under 3,000 kilowatt registered power. 4.5. To qualify for the issue of a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer (STCW 95 III/2, ships of less than 6000 kw propulsion power near coastal area) each candidate must have completed at least 36 months of qualifying sea service since obtaining the OOW certificate subject to the following: 4.5.1 Motor Certificate. At least twelve months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in motor ships whilst qualified as Second Engineer Officer in ships of less than 6000 kw propulsion power (STCW 95 III/2). Of this twelve months at least 9 months must have been spent as an engineer officer in charge of a watch in motor ships of 1500 kw propulsion power or more. 4.5.2 Steam Certificate. At least twelve months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in steam ships whilst qualified to serve as Second Engineer Officer in ships of less than 6000 kw propulsion power (STCW 95 III/2). Of this twelve months at least 9 months must have been spent as an engineer officer in charge of a watch in steam ships of 1500 kw propulsion power or more. 4.5.3 Combined Certificate. At least eighteen months, of which at least nine months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in steam ships of 1500 kw propulsion power or more and at least nine months must have been spent as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility in motor ships of 1500 kw propulsion power or more. Both periods must be spent whilst qualified to serve as Second Engineer Officer in motor and/or steam ships of less than 6000 kw propulsion power (STCW 95 III/2). FOR CANDIDATES ALREADY QUALIFIED AS CHIEF ENGINEER III/2 (LESS THAN 6000 KW PROPULSION POWER NEAR COASTAL AREA) AT LEAST NINE MONTHS MUST HAVE BEEN SPENT AS AN ENGINEER OFFICER IN CHARGE OF THE WATCH IN SHIPS OF THE TYPE FOR WHICH THE ENDORSEMENT IS SOUGHT. 4.6. Remission of qualifying sea service for various examinations is granted as follows:- OOW. EACH CANDIDATE WHO HAS SATISFACTORILY COMPLETED ANY COURSE OF CADET TRAINING COVERED BY PARAGRAPH 3.1.1 WHICH INCLUDES A MINIMUM OF NINE MONTHS SEA SERVICE PERFORMED DURING HIS CADETSHIP WILL BE ALLOWED TO ATTEND FOR EXAMINATION AS OFFICER IN CHARGE OF AN ENGINEERING WATCH (MOTOR OR STEAM). THE SIX MONTH SEA SERVICE REQUIREMENT OF 4.1.1 WILL NOT APPLY IN THIS CASE. IN ADDITION HIS INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING FEDERATION (ISF) BOOKLET (OR EQUIVALENT) MUST HAVE BEEN COMPLETED TO THE SATISFACTION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT AND ALL OTHER REQUIREMENTS AS DETAILED IN 2.2 MUST BE MET. SUCH SEA SERVICE MUST HAVE BEEN PERFORMED IN VESSELS OF NOT LESS THAN 750 KILOWATT REGISTERED POWER. SEA SERVICE PERFORMED PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF YEAR TWO OF THE ORDINARY DEGREE IN MARINE ENGINEERING OR YEAR TWO OF AN APPROVED CADETSHIP WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. IN THE CASE OF CANDIDATES FOR A COMBINED CERTIFICATE (MOTOR & STEAM) OF THE NINE MONTHS SEA SERVICE PERFORMED DURING THE CADETSHIP, AT LEAST FOUR MONTHS SEA SERVICE MUST HAVE BEEN PERFORMED IN MOTORSHIPS AND AT LEAST FOUR MONTHS SEA SERVICE MUST HAVE BEEN SERVED IN STEAMSHIPS. THE REMAINING SEA SERVICE MAY BE PERFORMED IN STEAMSHIPS OR MOTORSHIPS.

4.6.1 EACH CANDIDATE WHO REQUIRES AN OOW (MOTOR OR STEAM) ENDORSEMENT TO A CHIEF ENGINEER CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY SHIPS GREATER THAN 3000 KW (STCW III/2) WILL BE GRANTED FULL REMISSION FROM EITHER SEA SERVICE PERIOD REFERRED TO IN PARAGRAPH 4.1. 4.7 Irish Naval Service Sea Service 4.7.1 Sea service performed in Irish Naval Service vessels will generally be assessed as if it had been served in mercantile marine vessels if it has been served whilst holding a Mercantile Marine Engineer Officer Certificate of Competency. At least six months of the total sea service required for the issue of a Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency (Reg III/2 or III/3), since obtaining the Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency, must have been served in mercantile vessels. At least three months of the mercantile sea service must have been carried out within the five years preceding oral examination and the remainder within the ten years preceding the date of oral examination. 4.7.2 Naval service candidates must satisfy the initial training requirements set out in Chapter 3. 4.7.3 Naval service candidates must satisfy the requirements of Chapter 2.2 Conditions of Issue. 4.7.4 The Department of Transport recognises the structured nature of Naval Service artificer training as satisfying the requirements for initial training as set out in Chapter 3. Sea service performed on Naval Service vessels will be accepted as qualifying sea service for the EOOW examinations when served in the rank of Engine Room Artificer or a higher rank. 4.8 Qualifying Sea Service equivalent arrangements The minimum periods of qualifying sea service specified in this Chapter may be altered on a case by case basis at the discretion of the Examiner of Engineers. Minimum periods of sea service will not be altered below any minimum specified in the STCW Convention for the issue of a particular certificate. Any deviation from the minimum periods specified above must be requested in writing by the candidate and supported with documentary evidence relating to the request such that the Examiner may form a reasoned opinion that there would be no reduction in safety or standards by acceding to the request. CHAPTER 5 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY - SEA SERVICE (GENERAL PROVISIONS) 5.1 Qualifying Sea Service. Except where particular limitations are placed upon it or where relaxations are specifically allowed, qualifying sea service means service under crew agreement as engineer officer on regular watch over main propelling machinery or auxiliary machinery when such machinery is in full use. A minimum of six months qualifying sea service for any particular certificate of competency must have been performed within a period of five years preceding the date of the examination. The remaining qualifying sea service must have been performed within a period of ten years preceding the date of the examination. 5.1.1 Sporadic use of main propelling machinery. Service performed in ships where for considerable periods the main propelling machinery is not used, is reckoned as one and a half times the number of days actually spent under way, but in no case can it exceed the time served under crew agreement during the period concerned. In such cases the testimonials produced in accordance with paragraph 5.2 must carry a statement as to the number of days actually spent under way with the main propelling machinery in full use.

5.1.2 Chief Engineer greater than 3000 kw (STCW 95, Reg. III/2): The minimum periods as engineer officer in a position of responsibility specified in paragraph 4.3 for Reg III/2 examination purposes should be performed as Engineer Officer in Charge of a Watch or in a higher rank. In the case of each candidate who holds a Certificate of Competency Chief Engineer greater than 3000kW, either motor or steam, and who requires further service for the examination leading to the issue of a Chief Engineer Combined Certificate, the following applies: Service performed in ships of not less than 3,000 kilowatt registered power, not in charge of a watch, but on watch or otherwise substantially concerned with main propelling machinery of the appropriate description (steam or motor) will be accepted at half rate. 5.1.3 Unattended Machinery Spaces. Service performed in ships where the main propelling machinery operates regularly in the periodically unattended mode will be accepted at full rate. 5.1.4 Unusual Service. Service which consists of work of an unusual nature, but which may be considered pertinent to the operational experience of an engineer officer, will be accepted up to a maximum of nine months, either at full rate or at some proportional rate dependent upon the nature of the work involved. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping on main propelling machinery. Service is not generally acceptable if it consists of work not usually performed by a watchkeeping engineer officer. 5.1.5 Auxiliary machinery. Service in watchkeeping on auxiliary machinery will be accepted at full rate. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping on main propelling machinery. 5.1.6 Day Work. Engineering work carried out at sea, other than that performed on regular watch, will be accepted at full rate. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping or UMS duties on main propelling machinery. 5.1.7 Offshore Service. Service in self-propelled offshore units where the unit is undertaking sea-going passages or well shifts or when it is engaged in maintaining a fixed station by continuous use of the main propelling machinery will be accepted at full rate. Service in self-propelled offshore units where the unit is fixed on station in either the drilling or service mode will be accepted at full rate. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping on main propelling machinery. Service in an offshore unit which is not self-propelled but is termed a ship under the Merchant Shipping Acts will be accepted at half rate. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping on main propelling machinery. 5.1.8 Newbuild / drydocking. Service standing by newbuild ships in a shipyard and extended drydocking will count at full rate up to maximum period of three months. Such service will not be accepted as counting towards the minimum required to be spent in watchkeeping on main propelling machinery. 5.1.9 Megayachts. Service in megayachts engaged in trade may be accepted on a case by case basis taking into account, amongst other things, the position held on board, the number

of actual days at sea and the engine power. Extended periods alongside will not count towards sea service. Reference should be made to Paragraph 5.1.1 5.1.10 Sea service other than that detailed in the preceding paragraphs may be considered on a case by case basis by the Department of Transport. Candidates claiming such sea service should submit full details of the sea service performed to the Examiner of Engineers for consideration. 5.2 Testimonials. Each candidate must produce testimonials in respect of all sea service performed. These testimonials, which should state the seniority on watch, the type of main propelling machinery and the nature of duties performed, are to be signed by the Chief Engineer Officer and endorsed by the Engineer Superintendent or some other responsible representative of the employer. Testimonials covering service as Chief Engineer Officer are to be signed by the Engineer Superintendent and some other responsible representative of the employer. A recommended form of testimonial to cover sea service is shown in Appendix 2. 5.2.1 All candidates for the OOW Examination will be required to have successfully completed an approved on board training record book such as the International Shipping Federation (ISF) On Board Training Record Book, or equivalent. Candidates undergoing training in accordance with 3.1.1 are to submit the book and projects to the National Maritime College of Ireland for evaluation. All other candidates are to submit the book and projects to the Examiner of Engineers for evaluation. 5.3 Verification of service. Sea service is to be verified by proper entries in both the crew agreements and the official discharges of the ships and voyages covering the service. Sea service which cannot be so verified will not be accepted except upon written confirmation by either a consul or some other recognised official of the country of registry in the case of service performed in ships that are not Irish ships, or some responsible person having personal knowledge of the facts to be established in the case of service performed in Irish ships. 5.4 Calculation of Service. Sea service as entered in official discharges and testimonials will be reckoned by the calendar months, that is, the time included between any given day in any month and preceding day of the following month, both inclusive. The number of complete months from the commencement of the period, ascertained in this way, should be computed, after which the number of odd days should be counted. The day on which the crew agreement commences, as well as that on which it terminates, should both be included, all leave of absence excluded, and all odd days added together and reckoned at thirty days to the month. 5.5 Unsatisfactory Conduct. Each candidate who having signed a crew agreement has either neglected to join his vessel, or committed misconduct on board, will be required to produce satisfactory proof of two years subsequent service with good conduct at sea, unless the Department, after investigation, should see fit to reduce this period.

CHAPTER 6 CERTIFICATES OF COMPETENCY - ADMISSION TO EXAMINATIONS AND AWARD OF CERTIFICATES 6.1 Introduction. Examinations for Certificates of Competency consist of written examinations, oral examinations and ancillary courses. All written examinations for the Certificates of Competency will be set and marked entirely by the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) on behalf of the Department of Transport. 6.1.1 Exemptions from any of: mathematics, engineering drawing, applied heat, applied mechanics, electrotechnology or naval architecture, may be granted by the Department of Transport to candidates whose previous qualifications merit them for consideration for exemption. This is detailed in Chapter 7. 6.1.2 No exemptions will be granted in respect of examinations in engineering knowledge. 6.1.3 Candidates for Second and Chief Engineer (STCW 95 III/3 & III/2) written and oral examinations in the professional subjects Engineering Knowledge - will be required to show proof of attendance on an appropriate course of study at a Nautical College prior to being admitted for examination. Candidates will be required to show a minimum attendance of six weeks within the previous five years, which need not be consecutive. This will apply for each Certificate of Competency. Proof of attendance leading to the award of one certificate will not be accepted for the next grade of certificate. 6.1.4 Oral examinations in engineering knowledge will be conducted by an Examiner of Engineers at the Department of Transport. 6.1.5 Candidates for Engineer Officer of the Watch examinations that have not completed an approved cadetship including a preparatory course for examination may be required to undertake the preparatory course at an approved College. 6.1.6 Candidates for Engineer Officer of the Watch examinations may be required to produce documentary evidence of satisfactory attendance at College. An attendance rate of at least 90% must be shown. Documentary evidence may be in the form of College attendance records or a letter from a Senior Lecturer verifying satisfactory attendance throughout the entire course. Any periods of non attendance are to be covered by an explanatory note, doctors certificate etc. Poor college attendance may result in the imposition of additional sea service. 6.2 Candidates must pass all the written parts of the examination for a particular grade of certificate before attempting the oral part of the examination for a particular grade of certificate. 6.2.1 A candidate who is successful in passing any of the academic subjects in the Syllabus 1, Syllabus 2 or OOW examinations will not be required to resit that subject at subsequent attempts. Passes in academic subjects remain valid indefinitely.

6.2.2 Candidates must pass the written part of the Engineering Knowledge examination and the oral examination, for a particular grade of certificate, within a two year period. The Engineering Knowledge examination consists of two papers - Engineering Knowledge General and Engineering Knowledge Motor or Engineering Knowledge Steam and both papers must be passed at the same attempt. 6.2.3 A pass in the Engineering Knowledge examination will remain valid for two years during which time all the academic subjects must have been passed. 6.2.4 Should all the academic subjects and the oral examination not be passed within the above two years the Engineering Knowledge examination will have to be retaken in addition to any other subjects not passed. 6.3 Admission to examination. Details covering the venues, times and manner of admission to the Department's examination are as follows:- 6.3.1 The National Maritime College of Ireland conducts written examinations at its examination centre on behalf of the Department of Transport. The dates upon which the various examinations commence are available from the NMCI, or from the Marine Notice published annually by the Department of Transport and available on the Department s website or at Mercantile Marine Offices,. The NMCI should be contacted for the most up to date information regarding exam timetabling. 6.3.2 Additional written examinations may be conducted by the NMCI to facilitate candidates. 6.3.3 Application for Examination. Each candidate seeking admission to the engineering knowledge written and oral examinations for a Certificate of Competency is required to complete an application form EXN 3 and pay the appropriate fee. Any application in which the declaration has not been signed will not be accepted. The completed form and supporting documents in accordance with paragraph 3.5, 5.2 and Appendix 3 together with any Certificate of Competency held, are to be lodged with the Examiner of Engineers, Dublin, not less than 6 weeks before the date of the first examination to be taken. An application together with the fee and supporting documents may be lodged in person with the Mercantile Marine Office, Dublin or Cork. Application may be made by post to the Examiner of Engineers, Department of Transport. Notification of acceptance or rejection will be given as soon as possible after receipt of the application. Notification of acceptance will be accompanied by a copy of the examination rules. 6.4 Fees. Each candidate will be required to pay the appropriate fee on each occasion of making application for examination. Details of the current fees may be obtained from the Examination Clerk, Marine Surveyor s Office, Dublin. 6.5 Determination of Eligibility. Each candidate enquiring as to his eligibility for admission to an examination will be required to make formal application and pay the appropriate fee before assessment of his application will be made. A candidate who is found ineligible may have his fee or a portion of his fee refunded or placed to his credit until he is eligible. 6.6 Candidates seeking admission to the engineering knowledge written and oral examinations should apply for a Notice of Eligibility as follows: 6.6.1 As early as possible preferably before attending any college course the completed application forms should be submitted to the Department of Transport together with the appropriate examination fee and supporting documentation.