Program Overview

Shipboard Safety Skill Set

The Shipboard Safety Skill Set, nationally accredited as MARSS00008, is a qualification that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to work safely on board a vessel. This training is a requirement for anyone seeking to work on commercial vessels in domestic waters.

Program Overview

The program covers a series of on-board emergency situations and in-water sea survival skills, including abandon ship scenarios requiring the deployment of a life raft. Participants will learn how to safely don a life jacket, use an EPIRB and fire extinguisher, perform safety equipment checks, crew drills, and the basics of line handling.

Program Details

• Duration: 3 days
• Delivery: In-person practical training
• Location: UQ St Lucia

Assessment

Participants will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Written exams and reports
• Oral assessments
• Practical demonstrations

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for this qualification. However, as a safety consideration, it is recommended that all students be physically fit to carry out all the roles and responsibilities of a Coxswain on a commercial vessel. Students should also be able to swim (any stroke) a minimum of 25 metres fully clothed.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Testing

Participants are required to complete a language, literacy and numeracy test as part of the enrolment process. This helps identify and plan for any learning or support needs.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If participants have recent work experience, they may be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Units of Competency

To gain this qualification, participants must successfully complete the following 4 units:

• Apply basic survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment (MARF060)
• Follow procedures to minimise and fight fires on board a vessel (MARF028)
• Meet work health and safety requirements (MARF029)
• Survive at sea using survival craft (MARF030)

Careers

Upon completion, participants may find employment in roles such as:

• Coxswain
• Deckhand
• Linesperson

Fees

The full fee for the program is $670.

Additional Information

All UQ Skills programs require access to a computer with a Windows operating system, up-to-date versions of Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader, and a reliable internet connection. Participants must also provide a Unique Student Identifier (USI) before enrolment can be accepted. The 2026 UQ Skills Student Handbook is available for download and includes student support and guidance on fees, withdrawal, and other policy information.