Maritime Ed

The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for seafarers, as amended (STCW Convention), contains standards regarding training requirements for Bridge Watch Rating personnel in Section A-II/4 of the mandatory Code A.

The Transport Canada Bridge Watch Rating Program is of 360 hours duration and prepares New-Entry Level seafarers with the knowledge of the functions related to the Bridge Watch, the Standards of Safe Working Procedures and understanding of the hazards associated with the marine environment and their vessel. The holder of a Bridge Watch Rating Certificate may act as an additional person forming part of the deck watch team.

A vessel of at least 500 gross tonnage, requires an additional person as part of the deck watch, who holds, at a minimum, a Bridge Watch Rating Certificate.

Additionally, it is the policy of many companies operating Canadian commercial vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage, to hire only deck personnel who hold a Bridge Watch Rating Certificate.

The Western Maritime Institute's Bridge Watch Rating Program is fully approved by Transport Canada, qualifies for Student Loans and is conducted on an 8-hours per day basis.

A candidate for a Transport Canada Bridge Watch Rating Certificate of Competency must be at least 18 years of age and acquire at least two-months of sea service performing deck duties on one or more vessels after having reached 16 years of age and hold:

1. Bridge Watch Rating Training Certificate issued by a Transport Canada Approved Training Program in Bridge Watckeeping Duties;
2. Marine Emergency Duties with respect to STCW Basic Safety Training Certificate;
3. Marine Emergency Duties with Respect to Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Training Certificate;
4. Marine Basic First Aid Certificate;
5. Steering Testimonial attesting to the applicant's ability to steer a vessel.

After the candidate has provided Transport Canada with the above prerequisites, the candidate must succeed a written examination conducted by a Transport Canada Examiner to receive the Transport Canada Bridge Watch Rating Certificate of Competency.