To become a qualified seaman, one must work as a deckhand, pass physical exams, and complete safety and first aid training. Some countries require written and practical exams, and some sailors obtain maritime licenses. Military and government seamen must undergo basic training and work as junior crew members. Some colleges offer courses for aspiring seamen.
A qualified seaman is an experienced crew member on a government-owned or commercial marine vessel. To become a qualified seaman, a crew member must first spend time working as a deckhand. Additionally, in some countries, laws require prospective sailors to pass a written and practical exam.
Generally, someone who wants to become a capable seaman must have reached legal adulthood and have the ability to pass a basic physical exam. Sailors and other mariners are responsible for operating above deck equipment such as anchors, lifeboat pulleys and various types of machinery. Therefore, due to the physical nature of the work, employers often reject applications from individuals with physical disabilities or health conditions. In most cases, a Junior Deck must complete a certain number of days at sea before applying to become an able seaman position.
Commercial boat operators typically require candidates for these positions to have successfully passed first aid training classes. In addition, many companies send experienced sailors to safety training classes where they are taught how to deal with shipboard fires, equipment breakdowns, and other types of calamities. Those who want to become a capable sailor must successfully pass these safety-related classes.
In many countries, capable sailors have obtained maritime licenses. These individuals must pass written examinations administered by regulatory authorities. The exams test an applicant’s knowledge of maritime law, boat operating procedures, and health and safety issues. Generally, someone who wants to become a licensed mariner must pay an application fee before taking the exam. Successful applicants receive a certificate of completion or license that remains active for a specified period of time.
In addition to commercial operators, some are employed by military or other government divisions. Individuals filling these roles typically have to undergo basic military training, which can last several months. Thereafter, anyone wishing to become a qualified seaman must complete a set number of hours working as a junior crew member before being recommended for promotion. As with commercial seamen, these individuals are usually required to pass a written and practical exam to test their knowledge of ship equipment and maritime rules.
While many skilled sailors are high school dropouts who join the crew of vessels in entry-level positions, some colleges offer non-degree professional courses that prepare individuals to become seamen. These courses consist of classroom lectures and hands-on training aboard small marine vessels. In some cases, these courses are designed to prepare people to work for the navy or coast guard.
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