Ship Handling and Manouvering (SHM)

Course Objective

The objective of the course is to equip captains and deck officers with the competencies necessary for effective ship handling in various conditions, in accordance with IMO international standards and the STCW Convention.

Principles and Theories of Ship Maneuvering

This topic covers the basic principles and theories of ship maneuvering. Factors influencing the behavior of the ship, such as speed, direction, hull type, and external conditions, are considered. The goal is to ensure an understanding of the basics of safe and effective ship handling.

1. Basic Principles of Maneuvering:
   • Key principles and theories of maneuvering.
   • Influence of speed, course, and external conditions on ship maneuverability.
2. Factors Influencing Maneuverability:
   • Influence of hull type and draft.
   • Influence of speed and rudder control.
3. Maneuvering in Various Conditions:
   • Maneuvering in narrow passages and shallow waters.
   • Maneuvering in restricted visibility and adverse weather conditions.

Use of Steering Devices and Engines

This topic covers aspects of using steering devices and engines for ship handling. Principles of steering device operation, types of engines, and their impact on ship maneuverability, methods of steering and engine control in various situations are considered.

1. Principles of Steering Device Operation:
   • Design and principles of steering device operation.
   • Types of steering devices and their features.
2. Types of Engines and Their Impact on Maneuverability:
   • Diesel, gas turbine, and electric engines.
   • Influence of engine power and type on ship behavior.
3. Methods of Steering and Engine Control:
   • Methods of steering control in various situations.
   • Use of engines for maneuvering and course changes.
4. Automatic Control Systems:
   • Automatic steering and engine control systems.
   • Advantages and limitations of automatic systems.

Bridge Teamwork

This topic highlights the key roles and responsibilities of bridge team members. Principles of effective communication and coordination to ensure the safety and efficiency of ship handling are considered.

1. Main Roles on the Bridge:
   • Responsibilities of the captain, chief officer, and other team members.
   • Interaction between team members.
2. Communication and Coordination:
   • Importance of clear and timely communication.
   • Methods and tools for communication on the bridge.
3. Plans and Procedures for Various Situations:
   • Preparation for standard and non-standard operations.
   • Roles and actions of team members in emergency situations.
4. Training and Teamwork Drills:
   • Regular drills to practice teamwork.
   • Assessment of teamwork effectiveness and corrective measures.

Preparation for Departure and Arrival in Port

This topic covers the main plans and procedures required for safe departure and arrival in port. Aspects of maneuver planning, interaction with port services, and ensuring the safety of the ship and crew are considered.

1. Departure and Arrival Plans:
   • Development of detailed departure and arrival plans.
   • Considering weather conditions, traffic, and port characteristics.
2. Interaction with Port Services:
   • Communication with pilots and tugboats.
   • Procedures for safe entry and exit from port.
3. Maneuvering in Restricted Waters:
   • Features of maneuvering in narrow channels and shallow waters.
   • Methods to prevent collisions and accidents.
4. Emergency Situations and Procedures:
   • Action plans for emergency situations.
   • Ensuring the safety of the crew and the ship.

Navigational Aids and Their Use

This topic covers various navigational aids used on the ship and their role in ensuring safe navigation. Principles of operation and use of navigation equipment, the importance of accurate course tracking, and ship position are considered.

1. Main Navigation Systems:
   • Overview of navigation systems: GPS, radars, echo sounders.
   • Principles of operation and functions of each system.
2. Use of Navigation Equipment:
   • Practical application of navigation systems for course tracking.
   • Data interpretation and decision-making based on navigation information.
3. Maintaining Accuracy and Data Updates:
   • Methods for checking the accuracy of navigation systems.
   • Importance of timely updating navigation information.
4. Integration of Navigation Data:
   • Combining data from various sources to create a comprehensive picture.
   • Use of electronic charting and information systems.

Organization and Planning of Watchkeeping

This topic covers the key aspects of watchkeeping organization and planning. The roles and responsibilities of watch officers, methods for ensuring safety, and adherence to procedures in various conditions are considered.

1. Roles and Responsibilities of Watch Officers:
   • Responsibilities of watch officers and their interaction with other crew members.
   • Responsibility for the safety of the ship and crew.
2. Watchkeeping Procedures and Protocols:
   • Standard watchkeeping procedures and protocols.
   • Methods for ensuring safety and responding to non-standard situations.
3. Watch Planning and Preparation:
   • Methods for planning and preparing for watchkeeping.
   • Importance of regular equipment checks and monitoring.
4. Emergency Procedures and Actions:
   • Actions of watch officers in emergency situations.
   • Coordination with other crew members and port services in case of an emergency.

Ship Handling in Various Conditions

This topic covers the methods and techniques of ship maneuvering in challenging conditions, including narrow passages, shallow waters, storms, and ice conditions. Principles of safe ship handling and accident prevention are considered.

1. Maneuvering in Narrow Passages and Shallow Waters:
   • Features of ship handling in restricted waters.
   • Methods to prevent collisions and accidents.
2. Handling the Ship in Storm Conditions:
   • Principles and techniques for maneuvering in heavy seas and strong winds.
   • Ensuring the safety of the crew and ship.
3. Navigation in Ice Conditions:
   • Features of maneuvering in ice conditions.
   • Use of icebreakers and interaction with ice services.
4. Emergency Procedures in Challenging Conditions:
   • Plans and actions for emergency situations in challenging conditions.
   • Coordination with shore services and other ships.

Principles of Safe Operation of Ship Equipment

This topic addresses the main principles of safe operation of various types of equipment on the ship. Safety measures, maintenance procedures, and actions in case of malfunctions are considered.

1. Principles of Safe Operation:
   • Key principles of safe equipment operation.
   • Importance of following operating instructions and manuals.
2. Types of Equipment on the Ship:
   • Characteristics and purposes of various types of equipment.
   • Features of operating pumps, valves, and piping systems.
3. Safety Measures:
   • Basic safety measures when working with equipment.
   • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
4. Accident Prevention Procedures:
   • Operational procedures and their importance.
   • Steps to take in case of malfunctions.
5. Regular Maintenance:
   • Importance and frequency of equipment maintenance.
   • Documentation and reporting of maintenance work.

Emergency Situations and Response

This topic covers the main aspects of planning and responding to emergency situations on the ship. Types of possible emergencies, prevention methods, and crew actions in case of an emergency are considered.

1. Types of Emergency Situations:
   • Overview of possible emergencies on the ship.
   • Causes and consequences of emergencies.
2. Emergency Action Planning:
   • Development of emergency action plans.
   • Importance of regular drills and crew readiness checks.
3. Crew Actions During Emergencies:
   • Basic actions of the crew in case of an emergency.
   • Coordination and communication among crew members.
4. Interaction with External Services:
   • Communication with shore services and rescue centers.
   • Procedures for calling for assistance and coordinating rescue operations.
5. Post-Incident Analysis:
   • Analysis of causes and consequences of emergency situations.
   • Development of recommendations to prevent similar situations in the future.

Simulation Training

This topic is dedicated to the use of simulation trainers for practicing ship handling skills. Main exercises, modeling of various weather conditions and situations, and assessment of team and individual skills are considered.

1. Use of Simulators:
   • Overview of capabilities and types of ship simulators.
   • Advantages of simulation training.
2. Modeling Weather Conditions and Situations:
   • Simulation of various weather conditions: storms, fog, strong winds.
   • Modeling complex maneuvers and emergency situations.
3. Practical Exercises:
   • Main exercises on simulators: maneuvering, mooring, anchoring.
   • Practicing actions in emergency situations.
4. Assessment and Analysis:
   • Methods for assessing team actions and individual skills.
   • Review of mistakes and recommendations for improvement.