Bernhard Schulte upskills crew for methanol-fuelled vessels
German ship manager Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has started training its crew on methanol handling, safety and firefighting across its training centres.
IMAGE: Invisible methanol fire. BSM
Methanol is highly toxic, and unlike regular fires, methanol flames are invisible in daylight and emit no smoke. It is extremely difficult to spot, especially in enclosed spaces, where spontaneous detection becomes almost impossible.
During the training, Bernhard Schulte’s crew members will be familiarised with the fundamental concepts of using methanol as a fuel, its characteristics and standard safety procedures.
Seafarers will be trained in special challenges and methods of prevention and fighting methanol fires, BSM said, adding that the training courses are hands-on and practical.
The course will train BSM’s crew members in handling specialised detection tools like thermal imaging and infrared cameras and strict extinguishment protocols to prevent reignition.
Crew members will be trained to use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical powder (DCP), CO2 systems and water curtains – tools used during methanol-related fire hazards.
These training programmes are designed to meet the upcoming International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) safety and training standards for crew members working on ships that use alternative fuels like methanol.
“It involves vital bunkering procedures and advance simulator training to equip crew with experience for complex operations,” the shipping firm added.
The company has worked with other maritime companies to develop these training programmes, it said.
By Aparupa Mazumder
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