For those that accept the responsibility of saving lives at sea, #training is an essential part of the role.
Take a look at this video, showing @RNLI lifeboat crew during simulated storm conditions in our sea survival pool. #seasurvival#nmciservicespic.twitter.com/kkWZONb9e2
The International Organisation for Industrial Emergency Services Management in conjunction with NMCI Services invite you to a JOIFF shared learning meeting, on September 5th 2023 at the National Maritime College of Ireland.
Programme
The programme will include papers on:
EU Regulations relating to PFAS in Firefighting Foam;
Practical issues on change over to Fluorine Free Foam (FFF);
Alternatively fuelled vehicles;
Environmental Emergency Response using a High Volume Pump;
Practicalities of Hosting an Emergency Incident on your site;
European Standards & new developments for Portable Fire Extinguishers;
Oil Spill Response;
NMCI Services Training;
JOIFF Accredited Training.
Who should attend?
Aimed at management and emergency response personnel within high hazard industries.
This event is open to all.
Why should I attend?
1. Networking: The event provides an excellent opportunity to connect and network with industry experts, professionals, and like-minded individuals from the fire and emergency response sector, which may lead to valuable connections and collaborations.
2. Knowledge Sharing: The JOIFF shared learning meeting will feature presentations and discussions on various topics related to fire safety, emergency response, and industrial firefighting. Attending the event will allow participants to gain new insights, learn about best practices, and stay updated on the latest industry trends.
3. Professional Development: By attending the meeting, individuals can enhance their professional development by participating in discussions to improve their expertise in fire and emergency response.
4. Gain Recognition: The JOIFF shared learning meeting provides a platform for individuals to showcase their expertise, share their experiences, and contribute to discussions on important industry topics.
5. Stay Informed: The event will offer insights into emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and advancements in the field of fire and emergency response.
Registration
Cost of registration is €30.00 which will cover tea/coffee breaks and lunch.
“Virus now of international concern”- WHO” – The Irish Times
“UK warns against mass panic as race to halt outbreak intensifies” – The Guardian
“Crews marooned at sea” – The New York Times.
These were the viral headlines grabbing our attention around the globe in early 2020.
NMCI Services had wasted no time preparing. Throughout February 2020 we implemented the first of our enhanced infection control procedures with a particular focus on COVID-19.
We had real time data from our extensive network of international clients on the seriousness of COVID-19. Additionally we had staff operating overseas that were providing updates.
On March 11th 2020 the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic.
On March 12th 2020 we safely brought home our staff from overseas.
That same day the Government announced the closure of all schools, colleges and childcare facilities until March 29th 2020.
We had until 6pm.
Staff, varying in all levels of digital knowledge, were within four hours oracles on OneDrive, Teams, Zoom and Skype (an achievement in itself).
The 29th of March came and went.
The team carried on with our reopening preps, updating and strengthening our procedures and risk assessments as Government Guidance and advice evolved.
We were ready, the “new normal” was now routine.
Ready, waiting and keenly aware that throughout the pandemic our trainees had to keep the ships at sea, energy flowing whether oil and gas or renewables and our emergency services were on duty throughout. We positioned ourselves so their essential training requirements could be met safely and without further delay.
Summer 2020 saw case numbers decrease, lockdown restrictions eased somewhat and life beginning to cautiously resume once again.
On August 31st the NMCI’s commercial division reopened, under strict safety protocols and with reduced class sizes we resumed essential training.
The new normal
NMCI Services had set sail and was safely navigating through the new normal.
Jim Morrissey, a NMCI Services trainer, explains how the team worked together to ensure the safety of all students, delegates and staff within NMCI Services.
“At the start of COVID-19 we really had to learn quickly as the situation and restrictions/safeguards were changing daily. We were required to put procedures in place which were robust enough to protect students, delegates and staff. It was difficult at the start as nobody had experienced anything like this before, but we coped well and adapted our safe operating procedures to comply with public health guidelines.”
Malcolm Meade, SEFtec NMCI Offshore Instructor, explains how workforce safety was a priority for the team:
“When the college shut down in March of last year not only did it effect my colleagues and I, it also effected the essential workers we provide courses for. It also meant that some workers for the energy sector were unable to refresh the safety training required for employment both nationally and internationally.
It was clear from the start we had to find a way to provide these courses to accommodate the workforce.
There was a phenomenal behind the scenes effort made by all of our staff during the first lock down and after, to ensure before, during and after every course the safety of the instructors and delegates were of paramount importance.
I believe these are trying times for all and we all have a part to play in overcoming this pandemic. A safe working space allows us and our clients to remain safe while providing a necessary service to the renewable energy sector.”
New protocols involved temperature checks and completing COVID-19 health declarations forms on arrival, placing hand sanitising stations in all areas, introducing a one way pedestrian system in our corridors, limiting class sizes and contact time, and completing contract tracing forms for not only staff and delegates but on equipment used by all, to name a few.
The following message was received after a recent March 2021 FOET course:
“I want to thank you and the team for your excellent support in getting me though the FOET course yesterday. I thought it was a really professional teamwork effort from all of you at NMCI. I was really impressed. Well done on your covid-19 process too. Thank you especially for your admin support in the planning and execution stages. It was also nice to get out and meet people again.”
What hasn’t changed?
While there is enormous focus placed on adhering to COVID-19 safety procedures, it is important to note that the attention given to each individual delegate has not changed. Timothy O’Riordan recently completed his FOET and sent the following message afterwards;
“I am writing this email to say a huge thank you and to express my gratitude to all involved.
As I am totally not comfortable under water, I was dreading the day that I would have to renew my certificate. Four years ago I also struggled with the underwater part but Cillian and the other divers coaxed me through it step by step. I think this time around was even worse for me as I was constantly thinking about what was to come but again I was coaxed through it and thankfully I completed it and survived !
I don’t think there is another training centre that would have as much patience and give as much support to a candidate such as myself and I really appreciate the time that was given to me.”
Attending a course with NMCI Services soon?
If you are attending a course with NMCI Services and have some questions, do contact our team in advance. We will be happy to discuss your training with you.
Our “COVID-19 NMCI Video” will give you an insight into what a typical day of training at the NMCI looks like at present.
Take the time to watch this video in advance of your arrival to ensure you know what to expect.
In line with current NPHET advice, in respect of Level 5, Higher Educational Institutes will continue to remain open and are deemed essential.
NMCI Services and SEFtec NMCI Offshore will continue to provide essential certified safety training (that cannot be done remotely) to support the essential services provided by Seafarers, Oil & Gas Personnel and Emergency Services. Delegates are entitled to travel from within Ireland to attend a course.
We are adhering to strict Covid-19 safety procedures. Please watch our safety video below;
Hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs may remain open, but only to support provision of essential services. If delegates require accommodation throughout the duration of their training please contact the Carrigaline Court Hotel (T: + 353 21 4852100) which, at this time, remains open to support keyworkers for the duration of Level 5.
To book your course please visit https://www.nmci.ie/commercial
Please email services@nmci.ie for any course queries you may have.
SEFtec NMCI Offshore (SNO) Offshore & Renewable Course Dates 2020 are now available to download or book online.
If you’re preparing to work offshore in the oil & gas industry, or work in the renewable energy sector, then check out our OPITO & GWO approved courses here SEFtec NMCI Offshore Course Schedule 2020.
Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to update your training we have a comprehensive list of Offshore & Renewable Course Dates scheduled throughout 2020.
Contact our admin team if you wish to arrange a bespoke date for your company or group, or book one of our many scheduled course dates. We’re happy to provide quotes and availability upon request.
New to Cork? The National Maritime College of Ireland is located just a 20 minute drive from Cork International Airport, now with a Bus Service operating every 30 minutes to the NMCI via Carrigaline. If you require accommodation we are happy to provide you with a list of recommended local hotels and guesthouses nearby. If you’re looking for things to do in Cork, our team are always happy to suggest local attractions or provide you with a list of recommended places to visit. Just ask your instructor or any of the NMCI Services admin team you meet during registration.
Have some questions? Why not call us on +353 21 4335609 or email services@nmci.ie and we’ll be happy to help.
We look forward to welcoming you to the NMCI this year to complete your safety training.
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