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STCW - Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

The STCW – Personal Survival Techniques (PST) course is an intensive one-day training in which participants learn how to act effectively and survive in emergency situations at sea. The focus is on safely abandoning the vessel, using personal life-saving appliances, and increasing the chances of survival until rescue arrives.

Throughout the course, theoretical instruction is combined with practical exercises, during which participants learn to handle lifejackets, immersion suits, liferafts, and distress signals. Realistic scenarios are practiced, emphasizing teamwork, composure, and sound decision-making under pressure.

The training meets the international requirements of the STCW Code (Reg. VI/1, Section A-VI/1-1, Table A-VI/1-1) and the Manila Amendments (2010).

Course duration: 1 day
Locations: Groningen, Heerenveen, Vlissingen
Cost per student: From € 398,00 (excl. BTW)

Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382

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About this course

STCW - Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

Introduction
The STCW Personal Survival Techniques (PST) course is a mandatory training for all seafarers who must comply with the international requirements of the STCW Basic Safety Training. During this course, participants learn how to act effectively in emergency situations at sea and which techniques contribute to survival after abandoning a vessel.
The course combines theoretical instruction with practical exercises, including the use of lifejackets, liferafts, distress signals and survival techniques in the water.
This training complies with the requirements of STCW Code Section A-VI/1-1 and the Manila Amendments (2010).

Objective
Upon completion of the training, participants will have the knowledge and skills to respond appropriately in emergencies, safely abandon the ship and increase their chances of survival at sea until rescue arrives.

Target group
This course is intended for all seafarers who are or will be working on board a vessel and who must meet the STCW Basic Safety Training requirements.
153
Practical info

Entry Requirements
Minimum age: 17 years and 9 months

Participants must be in possession of:
• a valid medical certificate for seafaring
• good health and physical condition sufficient to participate in practical exercises (including swimming and water-based survival activities)
• adequate command of the Dutch and/or English language

Course Content
The course consists of both theoretical and practical modules, including:
• recognition of emergency situations and correct procedures for abandoning a vessel
• use of lifejackets, immersion suits and liferafts
• survival techniques in the water
• use of distress signals and communication equipment
• procedures after abandoning ship and during rescue operations

Course Duration
1 day

Certification
Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive the certificate:
Proficiency in Personal Survival Techniques (PST),
in accordance with STCW Reg. VI/1, Section A-VI/1-1, Table A-VI/1-1.

Validity
5 years

Number of Participants
Minimum 6, maximum 12 participants

Class Hours
08:30 – 16:30 hours

153

Day 1 - Sea survival

This day is dedicated to survival at sea. We discuss the safety equipment available and how to use it effectively. Additionally, you will learn how a lifeboat operates in practice and what to do if you unexpectedly end up in the water.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Sea survival
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Our instructors

The people behind the training.

Our experienced trainers challenge you to bring out the best in yourself. Our program coordinators are available to provide you with all information and to answer any practical questions regarding the training.

Ruud Kathagen
Maritime Instructor
Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor
Jorian Schut
Maritime Instructor
Bas Gloudemans
Managing Director
Emile van Dooren
Instructor
Michel de Pooter
Senior Maritime Instructor

Let them convince you

Frequently asked questions

DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.

  • STCW – including Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSCRB/FRB), Medical First Aid, Medical Care and Security Awareness.
  • GWO – Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, Sea Survival and Enhanced First Aid.
  • NOGEPA – Basic Offshore Safety, Helicopter Underwater Escape (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire-fighting and specialised refresher courses.
  • BHV/First Aid/VCA – Basic and refresher courses in Emergency Response, First Aid and Safety Certification for all sectors.

See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.

For seafarers and maritime professionals who must comply with international STCW requirements.

Yes, our STCW courses are recognised by the Dutch flag state (the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate – ILT). Each certificate includes the relevant STCW reference, ensuring international recognition.

We offer Basic Training (BT), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA), Medical Care (MC), Proficiency in (Fast) Rescue Boats (PSCRB/FRB), and Security Awareness/Designated Duties.

Most STCW certificates must be renewed every 5 years (depending on the module and sea time requirements). Check the course page for exact details.

Yes, a valid maritime medical certificate is mandatory for participation.

Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support for reading difficulties can be arranged on request.

Bring valid identification, a medical certificate (mandatory), and swimwear/towel if the course includes a pool module. PPE and rescue equipment are provided by DRTC.

 

You will receive a digital and/or physical certificate in compliance with STCW standards. The format may vary by course.

Based on Artikel 5 Annuleringen

  1. DRTC applies cancellation terms when cancelling training courses. A distinction is made between “open courses” and “customized courses.” A quotation is always provided for customized courses.

  2. Customized courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 working days before the start of the course.

  3. For cancellations of customized courses made 14 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  4. Open courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 5 working days before the start of the course.

  5. For cancellations of open courses made 5 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  6. Open courses can be rescheduled free of charge up to 2 working days before the start of the course.

  7. If a participant fails to attend at the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

In mutual agreement, additional options may be considered beyond those stated in these terms.

Contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.

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