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About DRTC
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The STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) is a mandatory basic course for everyone working on board a ship. During the training, you will learn how to act in emergency situations such as fire, abandoning ship, and survival at sea. The STCW – BST training meets the basic training requirements for all personnel intending to go to sea on merchant and/or fishing vessels in accordance with Regulation VI/1, paragraph 1, and Section A-VI/1, paragraph 2.1 of the STCW Convention and Code of 1978, as amended.
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IntroductionThe STCW – Basic Safety Training (BST) is designed to raise awareness of and provide insight into emergencies and critical situations that may occur on board a ship, and how to take appropriate action.The STCW – BST training meets the basic training requirements for all personnel intending to go to sea on merchant and/or fishing vessels.The training complies with Regulation VI/1, paragraph 1 and Section A-VI/1, paragraph 2.1 of the STCW Convention and the STCW Code of 1978, as amended.
ObjectiveUpon completion of the course, participants will be able to act in a life-saving manner during ship abandonment, fire fighting on board, and survival at sea.
Target GroupIntended for anyone working on board ships falling under the STCW regime and the Dutch Seafarers Act.
Entry RequirementsMinimum age: 17 years and 9 months
Participants must be in possession of:
a valid medical certificate for seafaring
good health and physically able to participate in practical exercises (including use of breathing apparatus, confined spaces, heat exposure, and swimming)
Course ContentThe course consists of four components (both theory and practice), namely:
personal survival techniques at sea
fire prevention and firefighting
life-saving actions and safe working
personal safety and social responsibility
Course Duration5 consecutive working days
CertificationUpon successful completion of the Basic Safety Training course, participants will receive the certificate:
Proficiency in Basic Training, STCW reg. VI/1, Section A-VI/1-2, Table A VI/1-1, 1-2, 1-3 and 1-4
Proficiency in Basic Training Fishing Vessels, STCW reg. VI/1, Section A-VI/1 par. 2 & STCW-F reg. III/1, items 1-6
ValidityFive years (Basic Safety)Unlimited (Fishery Module)
Number of ParticipantsMinimum 6, maximum 12 participants
Class Hours08:30 – 16:30 (daily)
On the first day of the course, participants are introduced to the basic principles of fire fighting on board. What exactly is a fire, how does it start, and how can we prevent fires on board? And if prevention is no longer possible, how do we effectively extinguish the fire?
Time to put the material from day 3 into practice with very accessible exercises.
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.
During this day of the course, participants learn how to respond to accidents on board. Topics covered include bleeding, hypothermia, burns, CPR, and fractures.
During the morning session, participants learn about personal safety and social responsibilities. In the afternoon, the program is supplemented with specific topics related to the fishing industry.
The course covers safety on board fishing vessels, emergency procedures and survival, the use of personal protective equipment, and teamwork and communication on board, with attention to environmental awareness.
Our experienced instructors challenge you to push your limits and get the best out of yourself.Our programme coordinators are available to answer all your questions and provide practical information about the training.
Maarten Janse was born and raised in Zeeland and has a deep connection with the sea. After completing his Bachelor of Maritime Officer degree at the Maritime Institute De Ruyter (2002–2006), he began his career as a 4th officer on the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the years that followed, he progressed to 1st officer and gained worldwide experience in ship navigation and maneuvering, delivering safety training to crew in various emergency roles, organizing emergency drills, and leading teams responsible for the maintenance of lifesaving appliances and fire detection, prevention, and firefighting systems.
In 2022, Maarten made the transition to a shore-based position, wishing to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on experience with others. As a Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers training such as AFF, PST, PSCRB, FRB, ECDIS, GWO, and MCRM, as well as modules within ship management. His trainings are realistic, practice-oriented, and always linked to real-world situations. Maarten holds the certificate of competency as Master Mariner (all ships) and Firefighting Crew Member, and is a certified CAE MCRM instructor, making him a specialist in maritime incident response and teamwork.
Maarten has a strong passion for sharing knowledge. As a black belt holder in Kyokushin karate, he enthusiastically taught both youth and adults for many years. That same energy, dedication and attention to the participant characterize his approach in every training he delivers.
Born and raised in Zeeland, Michel de Pooter carries the sea in his heart. From a young age, his parents took him along on their sailing boat, instilling in him a deep-rooted love for the water and maritime life.
After completing his Maritime Officer training, Michel began his career as a 4th Officer with the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the following years, he rose through the ranks to Staff Captain, gaining a wealth of experience in leadership and ship operations on board cruise vessels worldwide.
In 2025, Michel chose a new course: a shore-based position that allowed him to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on knowledge with others. As Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers a variety of maritime training programs and is also regularly involved in the preparation and development of courses at the office.
Jorian Schut was born and raised in Bergen op Zoom, where he grew up surrounded by water. Through sea scouts and sailing he discovered his passion for the sea and adventure. After completing his Maritime Officer studies at HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen (2016–2020), he started his seafaring career in early 2021 as an officer on heavy lift vessels. For four years he sailed worldwide and gained extensive experience with ice navigation in the Arctic region.
In early 2024, Jorian decided to pursue a shore-based career. Having previously attended his own safety courses at DRTC, he returned with great memories of that time – this time as an Maritime instructor. Since then, he has been delivering nearly the full range of STCW training, simulation training and GWO programs at DRTC. In addition, he is actively involved in the development of new courses, ensuring the training offer remains relevant and of high quality.
His training style is hands-on, approachable and always focused on learning together. Jorian values the stories and experiences of participants, creating an environment where everyone learns from one another. For him, safety courses should never feel like a mandatory exercise, but rather like a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
With certifications such as Firefighting Crew Member (and currently training for Firefighting Commander) and practical experience in challenging maritime environments, Jorian has built a solid foundation. Looking ahead, his ambition is to further expand his role by delivering more courses, developing new programs and taking on greater leadership responsibilities within the organization.
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.
Not required, but possible. Call us for advice or available options at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.
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.
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