dover | The Maritime Skills Academy

Damage Control Training: Practical Drills & Onboard Exercises That Work

In order for damage control training to have a valuable and lasting effect on crew, a mixture of classroom teaching and practical exercises is required.

In the heat of the moment, with high-pressure water streams pouring in every direction, logic and composure can be compromised.

Damage control delegates holding up paratech in simulation container

That’s why, at the Maritime Skills Academy, we host our training in four stages: classroom learning, dry practice, external practice, and a final exercise with a fully simulated hull breach and burst pipes.

Damage control training drills and exercises

Flooding Response and Scenarios

Using our damage control simulation container, we can replicate onboard emergencies that require crew to practice closing watertight doors, isolating compartments, and performing counterflooding and ballast adjustments.

With progressive flooding, crew will be able to manage prioritisation, evaluating which area is the greatest contributor and which will become submerged first.

Shoring and Patching Drills

At the Maritime Skills Academy, we simulate realistic water flows to train crew in the use of shores, timber, box patches and collision mats, all whilst operating under growing pressure. Putting crew in a simulated environment allows a deeper understanding of equipment capabilities and limitations.

Damage control delegates practicing leak management. Using a simulation box

Creating scenarios like this not only prepares teams for the worst but also improves cross-department cooperation and teamwork.

Communication and Command Drills

Damage control training puts a team’s communication skills to the test. Operating under loud, stressful and uncomfortable conditions can disrupt clear, effective communication and put the vessel at risk of further damage.

This is why a clear hierarchy and action plan are a necessity in emergency situations like this. If team members are all aware of their roles and who they answer to, there is no need to delegate in response to an emergency.

Four damage control delegates fitting paratech in a container during their final exercise

Similarly, using equipment to communicate across departments and to shore is essential for managing a damaged ship. Shore-based professionals will need to be aware of the ship’s condition to prepare emergency services for rescues and clear space for the vessel if an emergency stop is required.

Abandon Ship and Casualty Triage Rehearsals

If the damage is beyond management, crew will be required to organise an abandon ship scenario. At the Maritime Skills Academy, we train delegates on safe handover practices that reduce confusion and casualties.

Damage Control Training at the Maritime Skills Academy

We believe in training crew to manage damage control scenarios, using industry-standard equipment and technology that will be accessible when on board. Simulating multiple real-world scenarios that will prepare crew to work as a team to manage flooding and further damage.

Investing in regular damage control training is essential for vessels carrying valuable cargo, whether it be goods or passengers, and can save lives.

To find out more about our facilities’ damage control capabilities, find the full course details here, or to book contact our team today.

The MCA has announced new requirements for PSSR: Here’s how the changes will affect you

New changes to the STCW PSSR (Personal Safety and Social Responsibility) course have been introduced in 2026, to include more training and awareness on sexual harassment and assault.

PSSR students in classroom, learning about latest updates

New modules will be added to the course structure to ensure all crew members are educated in the prevention of violence and harassment, including bullying. Although not mandatory, it would be beneficial for all crew to be trained in the updated course structure to ensure conduct on board is to the highest standard.

What will the changes to PSSR mean for passengers?

The intention of introducing further learning to PSSR, to educate crew on violence and harassment, is to improve the social experience on board a vessel, for crew and passengers alike. Crew will be better equipped to handle onboard conflicts, manage relationships and behave appropriately. Promoting respectful, dignified conduct will result in a better passenger experience and improve the reputation of industry workers.

What will the changes to PSSR mean for crew?

For crew members updating their training, there will be little change to the course they took previously, apart from the duration being slightly longer to accommodate the new topics.

Cruise Ship sailing on a clear sunny day

Violence and harassment have always been against policy on board a vessel; however, the new training in PSSR will give crew the skills they need to de-escalate a situation and manage relationships on board.

What will the changes to PSSR mean for training companies?

Any course change requires extensive research and training. Instructors will need to become well-versed in the updated course content so that they can confidently deliver the training to the crew. It is also important for a maritime training centre to contact its clients, ensuring they are well aware of the changes and advising them on how best to proceed.

STCW students in classroom learning about PSSR

At the Maritime Skills Academy, we can help your training company stay up to date with ever-evolving course and industry regulations. If you’d like to book PSSR training for yourself or your crew, then please contact our team today to find out more.

The Importance of Leadership Training for Crew On Board Ships 

Leadership training ensures that industry leaders’ skills and knowledge are up-to-date and of a high standard. With over 90% of trade goods being transported by sea, having strong leaders who can enhance crew efficiency is essential in the operation of modern global trade.

Despite the maritime industry’s extensive technological advancements, it remains dependent on the crew that operate its vessels. The importance of crew members means safeguarding and seafarer support remain indispensable.

Ensuring Safety at Sea 

It is the role of industry leaders to maintain safety on board the vessel they are responsible for. Leadership training ensures officers and other leaders can enforce safety regulations and maintain vessel company culture, even in emergencies.

In the event of an emergency, crew members will look to their leaders for guidance and instructions.

With leadership training, leading crew members will be well-equipped with the skills they need to keep their team calm and proactive in emergency situations. If crew members trust their superiors to handle high-pressure situations effectively, onboard morale will naturally increase.

Enhancing Teamwork and Morale 

Efficient leadership teams should encourage teamwork and regular activities among crew to promote strong onboard relationships. A seafarer’s job can be stressful from time to time; having to face extended periods away from home, confined spaces, and potential feelings of isolation. However, having access to leadership figures can increase motivation and alleviate the concerns of crew. Strong and reliable leadership has proven to sustain high morale on board and therefore is crucial for the overall outcome of a crew’s mental well-being.

Improving Operational Efficiency On Board

Trained vessel leaders are taught how to organise and prioritise tasks, delegate responsibilities, and monitor performance effectively. Having organisational skills and being able to enforce this on board will improve the running of daily operations, minimise downtime and reduce operational costs.

Adapting to Technological Advancements 

Technological advancements are constantly being introduced on board vessels, and crew are increasingly being required to learn and use new systems. Leadership training teaches officers problem-solving and adaptability, enabling them to guide and mentor their teams through the introduction of new systems and technologies.

Having educated leaders on board your vessel reduces the risk of neglecting technological advancements and ensures adherence to industry best practices.

Compliance with Regulations and Standards 

One way to maintain safety amongst leaders is to follow regulations. At the Maritime Skills Academy, we offer initial and refresher training in industry-standard certifications. Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers is a regulated certification that ensures all seafarers are competent and prepared to respond to emergencies.

External shot of the Maritime Skills Academy

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a regulatory body that enforces adherence to industry requirements. Leaders on board a vessel need to have training that supports their job functions to ensure they are confident and qualified to support the safeguarding of their team.

Core Components of Maritime Leadership Training 

Our leadership training for maritime professionals includes: 

Emotional intelligence: Leaders who are self-aware and understand the impact of their personality and behaviours on others are better at engaging with their teams.
Decision-Making Skills: By simulating real-world scenarios, our training helps leaders make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
Communication: By teaching clear, concise, and respectful communication practices, our leadership training helps to build a structured and communicative ethos.
Conflict Resolution: Our leadership training equips participants with strategies to resolve disputes amicably and maintain harmony onboard.
Crisis Management: Our bespoke facilities simulate real-world scenarios to prepare leaders to handle emergencies such as fires, equipment failures, and medical issues.
Cultural Sensitivity: Educating leaders on cultural differences to enhance their understanding and cooperation in multicultural team environments.

By prioritising leadership training, the maritime industry can navigate the challenges of today and chart a course for a more secure tomorrow. It’s no secret that people are the drivers of maritime operations, and supporting crew continues to be as significant as ever.

In partnership with BZ Maritime Leadership, the Maritime Skills Academy is pleased to deliver Maritime Leadership Training.

BZ Maritime visit MSA Dover to announce the introduction of leadership training partnership

Providing a range of leadership development and human capability training for professionals operating in both on board and shoreside roles. Our training equips professionals with leadership and human capabilities to perform safely and excel in their roles.

Training will upskill less experienced leaders and crew, while also accelerating the professional growth of those who are already well-practised or more advanced in their career journeys. 

To find out more about our Maritime Leadership Training get in touch with our team today to learn more info@vikingmsa.com