ABS Releases Chemical Tanker e-Learning Package

ABS, a provider of maritime classification services, launched Chem-eL, a specialized training package designed to support safety and competence in chemical tanker operations. Chem-eL is a sector-specific e-learning marine product developed in accordance with the requirements stated in the International Maritime Organization's International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers and the relevant IMO Model Course.

Developed by ABS in cooperation with Malaysian Maritime Academy (ALAM), a subsidiary of the MISC Bhd. (MISC), Chem-eL is designed to enable shipowners in this highly specialized sector to optimize their training programs for shipboard and shore-based staff.

"MISC identified a need for an e-learning program that could be used within the MISC and Group company fleet, as well as for students at its own training facilities. Drawing on technical knowledge from within ABS, we were able to develop a curriculum that could additionally serve the wider industry," said ABS Chief Learning Officer Mark McGrath.

The package was made available to MISC headquarters in October 2012 for use across the fleet and at its maritime training institution, ALAM, to enable eight months' shipboard and shore-based testing.

David Fredrick, Malaysian Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer, noted that, "Ensuring the required level of safety in chemical tanker operations requires a very high standard of training to support crew competence. When MISC wanted to develop a training package for use at ALAM and across the company, we knew that ABS had the technical and education expertise to support our aims and deliver a package that fulfilled our needs."

Chem-eL supports safe and compliant shipboard operations by making the necessary training resources available in a highly flexible way. Accessible online, it requires no specialized software installation. Responsive customer support, user-friendly interface and high quality graphics all enhance the learning experience.

Course topics include an introduction to chemical tank practice, chemical and physical cargo properties, hazards and hazard control design, cargo containment and handling systems, safe working practices, pollution prevention and ballast operations. Also covered are tank cleaning operations, risk management, the ship/shore interface, emergency, security and custody transfer aspects relating to carriage of liquid chemicals in bulk.

Capt. Loo Eng Chuan, MISC Senior Manager, Operations, Chemical Business Unit, said, "Chem-eL is the first program that provides step-by-step guidance to learners from basic understanding to advanced stages of chemical tanker operations and it also covers commercial aspects of chemical business."

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