Basic Training for Masters, Officers, Ratings, and other Personnel on Ships subject to the IGF Code

1. Introduction to the IGF Code

This topic introduces the participants to the basics and key provisions of the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code). It covers the main requirements and the application of the code to different types of ships. This topic lays the foundational knowledge necessary for further study in the course.

1. Key Provisions of the IGF Code:
   • History and development of the IGF Code.
   • Main principles and objectives of the code.
2. Application of the IGF Code:
   • Types of ships covered by the IGF Code.
   • Classification of ships by type of fuel used.
3. Equipment and Operational Requirements:
   • General requirements for ship equipment.
   • Operational requirements for safe operation.
4. Regulatory Bodies and Legislation:
   • Key international organizations and their role in the development and enforcement of the IGF Code.
   • Key legislative acts and their relation to the IGF Code.

2. Gas Fuels and Their Properties

This topic covers the physical and chemical properties of gas fuels used on ships. It reviews the main types of gas fuels, their characteristics, and associated risks. This knowledge is essential for understanding the specifics of working with gas fuels and ensuring safety on board.

1. Main Types of Gas Fuels:
   • Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
   • Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
   • Other types of low-flashpoint fuels.
2. Physical Properties of Gas Fuels:
   • Boiling point, density, viscosity, and other physical characteristics.
   • Impact of external factors on fuel properties.
3. Chemical Properties of Gas Fuels:
   • Composition and main chemical reactions.
   • Hazards related to the chemical properties of fuels (explosiveness, toxicity).
4. Risks and Safety Measures:
   • Main risks when working with gas fuels.
   • Measures to mitigate risks and ensure safety.

3. Fuel Storage and Supply Equipment

This topic covers the types and designs of fuel systems, methods of storing and supplying gas fuels. Special attention is given to safety measures when working with fuel systems, as well as their maintenance and operation.

1. Types of Fuel Systems:
   • Main types of fuel systems on gas-fueled ships.
   • Operating principles of each system.
2. Designs of Fuel Storage Systems:
   • Gas storage tanks.
   • Insulation and cooling systems.
3. Methods of Fuel Supply:
   • Pump and compressor systems.
   • Fuel distribution systems throughout the ship.
4. Safety Measures:
   • Rules for operating fuel systems.
   • Personal protective equipment and precautions when working with gas.
5. Maintenance:
   • Regular inspections and checks.
   • Preventive maintenance and repairs.

4. Operation of Gas-fueled Ships

This topic covers the main aspects of operating gas-fueled ships, including engine start-up and shutdown, maintenance, and operational procedures. Participants will learn about the specifics of operating such ships and key points to consider to ensure safe operation.

1. Engine Start-up and Shutdown:
   • Procedures for starting gas-fueled engines.
   • Procedures for stopping and shutting down engines.
2. Maintenance:
   • Main aspects of maintaining engines and fuel systems.
   • Scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
3. Main Operational Procedures:
   • Standard operational procedures for operating gas-fueled ships.
   • Monitoring and controlling fuel system parameters.
4. Crew Requirements:
   • Special skills and knowledge required for working with gas fuels.
   • Training and certification of crew members.

5. Measures to Prevent Accidents and Emergencies

This topic discusses methods for preventing accidents and emergencies related to the use of gas fuels on ships. It covers fire protection systems, emergency planning and response, and procedures to prevent leaks and explosions.

1. Methods to Prevent Leaks and Explosions:
   • Overview of technologies and methods to prevent gas leaks.
   • Detection and prevention systems for explosions.
2. Fire Protection:
   • Types of fire protection systems used on ships.
   • Procedures and equipment for fire fighting.
3. Emergency Response Planning:
   • Development and implementation of emergency response plans.
   • Training the crew for emergency situations.
4. Safety Systems:
   • Main safety systems used on ships.
   • Monitoring and emergency systems.

6. Environmental Aspects

This topic focuses on the environmental aspects of operating gas-fueled ships. It covers international standards and conventions for environmental protection, measures to prevent pollution, and procedures to minimize emissions.

1. International Standards and Conventions:
   • Overview of key international standards (MARPOL, etc.).
   • Role of conventions in environmental protection.
2. Measures to Prevent Pollution:
   • Technologies and procedures to prevent water and air pollution.
   • Monitoring of emissions and leaks.
3. Procedures to Minimize Emissions:
   • Methods and means of reducing harmful emissions.
   • Environmental programs and initiatives of shipping companies.

7. Practical Exercises

The practical part of the course includes simulator training, practical sessions on emergency procedures, and evacuation drills. The goal of this topic is to consolidate theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills in participants.

1. Simulator Training:
   • Management of fuel systems on "ERS 5000 TechSim by Transas" simulators.
   • Realistic operation and emergency scenarios.
2. Practical Sessions on Emergency Procedures:
   • Practice actions in case of gas leaks, fires, and other emergencies.
   • Use of emergency equipment and personal protective gear.
3. Evacuation Drills:
   • Planning and conducting evacuation drills.
   • Coordination of crew actions during evacuation.
4. Evaluation and Analysis of Actions:
   • Assessing the effectiveness of the exercises performed.
   • Analysis of mistakes and corrective measures.