February 2005

LEADING maritime training provider Videotel Marine International has secured further important flag state recognition of its distance learning courses following the approval of its Ship Security Officer course by the world's second largest ship register, the Liberian Registry, and by the Marshall Islands flag.

The course, which complies fully with the International Ship & Port Facility Security (ISPS) code, is intended for those who have to carry out the role of Safety Officer on board. Its aims are to ensure that the user is trained within the current legislative framework and to provide a record of this training. The course can be used on board ship or ashore and is designed for individual self-study.

Videotel continues to co-operate with leading shipping industry organisations to produce continuing professional development products which are widely recognised by the industry and by leading flag states. It worked closely with the IMO, and with other organisations such as OCIMF, Intertanko and Intercargo, to produce Shipboard Security, a computer-based training course especially designed for training security officers. As at January 2005, a total of 1,475 candidates, from 56 different companies and thirty different countries, had enrolled for the Shipboard Security course. The pass rate is almost 75 per cent.

Videotel chairman Len Holder says, "Everyone agrees that ship security is a major issue. The Shipboard Security package allows shipowners to demonstrate that security responsibilities are being met while ensuring that seafarers get a realistic and flexible approach to training. We welcome its endorsement by leading flag state authorities."

• Videotel Marine International is the market leader in the provision of quality computer, video and DVD-based training packages and courses in many languages for the maritime industry. The company provides training packages through long-term library rental schemes. Videotel currently offers over 500 titles, including a range of flag state-approved distance learning courses. 55 of Videotel's training packages have recently been recognised by IMarEST as suitable for continuing professional development.