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About DRTC
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The STCW – Elementary First Aid (EFA) course is designed for seafarers who are working or preparing to work at sea and must meet the international and national requirements for providing first aid on board. The training provides participants with the knowledge and practical skills to respond quickly and effectively to accidents and medical emergencies, perform life-saving actions, and stabilize the condition of casualties until professional medical assistance is available.
The course complies with the provisions of the STCW Code (Section A-VI/1-3), the IMO Model Course 1.13, and the relevant SOLAS regulations, and concludes with the internationally recognized STCW Elementary First Aid Certificate.
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STCW - Elementary First Aid
IntroductionThe STCW – Elementary First Aid (EFA) course is a one-day, interactive training program for seafarers who are working or intend to work at sea and must meet the international requirements of the STCW Convention (Section A-VI/1-3). The course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide prompt and effective first aid in emergency situations on board ships.
ObjectiveDuring the training, participants learn how to assess and treat casualties in medical emergencies at sea, such as respiratory problems, bleeding, burns, unconsciousness, and shock. The focus is on recognizing life-threatening conditions, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), stabilizing injured persons, and preventing further harm until professional medical assistance is available.
Target GroupSeafarers of all ranks and positions who are required to complete the mandatory Basic Safety Training (BST) under the STCW Code, or those who wish to renew their existing certificate.
Entry RequirementsParticipants must:• Be at least 17 years and 9 months old• Be physically fit and able to participate in all practical exercises• Present a valid form of identification• Have an adequate command of the Dutch and/or English language
Course ContentThe training consists of both theoretical and practical components, including:• Immediate response to accidents or medical emergencies on board• Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the recovery position• Treatment of bleeding, burns, shock, and choking• Use of bandages and first aid equipment on board• Moving and positioning casualties at sea• Risk assessment, reporting, and cooperation with medical services through radio medical advice
CertificationUpon successful completion of the course, participants will receive the Elementary First Aid (EFA) certificate, in accordance with:• STCW Code Section A-VI/1 Table A-VI/1-3 and Part B Section B-VI/1, including the 2010 Manila Amendments• The relevant provisions of the Dutch Seafarers Act and the European Directive 2008/106/EC, as amended• IMO Model Course 1.13 – Elementary First Aid (2019 Edition)
ValidityThe certificate is valid for five years.
Course DurationOne working day.
Number of ParticipantsMinimum 4, maximum 12 participants.
Class Hours09:00 – 16:30
During the course day, participants learn how to provide first aid in cases of unconsciousness, bleeding, burns, and shock. Practical training includes performing artificial respiration and chest compressions (CPR), enabling participants to act effectively and confidently in emergency situations on board.
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.
Mathanje den Boer-Besemer is married and the mother of three wonderful boys. She was born in 1976 on a Dutch military base in Blomberg, Germany, where she spent most of her childhood. At an early age, she obtained all her swimming diplomas and immediately joined the DLRG (Deutsche Lebens-Rettungs-Gesellschaft). Around the age of fourteen, she also began assisting with teaching the youngest children.
Shortly before her seventeenth birthday, she returned to the Netherlands. There, she joined a local lifeguard association and completed her MDGO-AB education. However, she did not fully find her passion in this line of work. She started a university of applied sciences program to become a recreation officer but soon discovered that she is more of a doer than a thinker who sits in an office. This led her to switch to swim instruction, where she specialized in adapted sports. Building on this, she co-founded a foundation for people with medical limitations together with a friend, which she led for 25 years.
In the meantime, it became increasingly clear that the field of emergency services continued to attract her. She joined the Red Cross, became an instructor for both the Orange Cross and the Red Cross, and after five years of teaching the crew of KNRM station Hansweert, she herself became a crew member ten years ago. Since then, she has gained international experience, including an exchange in Croatia and training in Finland with Women in SAR.
Also ten years ago, Mathanje started working at DRTC as a first aid instructor. She greatly enjoys teaching and values the contribution she can make in the world of emergency services—whether with the Red Cross, Witte Kruis, the riot police, or the KNRM. For her, it is meaningful and rewarding work, and she hopes this is also reflected in her lessons.
DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial 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.
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.
Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support for reading difficulties can be arranged on request.
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
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.
Customized courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 working days before the start of the course.
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.
Open courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 5 working days before the start of the course.
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.
Open courses can be rescheduled free of charge up to 2 working days before the start of the course.
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.
Wil je meer weten over een training, maatwerk bespreken of gewoon even sparren over de mogelijkheden? Neem gerust contact met ons op