DNV has performed the world’s first certification of ship superintendents when it recently certified four NYK superintendents. The event marks the launch of DNV’s new service line on personnel certification in the shipping industry.
In a further development to achieve a safer, cleaner and more profitable industry, DNV has developed the first global system for classifying maritime competence. It includes competence standards that can be applied globally and certification which is internationally recognised.
“Along with our competence management and training certification schemes, it is necessary to independently test and verify the competence of individuals in relation to specific jobs or positions,” says Bjørgulf Haukelid, head of DNV’s competence, operations and management unit. “Through our new service line, Personnel Certification, we can now offer the industry the necessary tools and expertise to evaluate the competence of individuals, including superintendents.”
The four superintendents are all employed in Singapore-based NYK Ship Management, which operates about 70 vessels. The tests were carried out on DNV SeaSkill's globally accessible web-based platform, allowing for a secure and controlled test environment.
In addition to the certification of the superintendents, NYK is currently establishing a competence management system and has contracted DNV SeaSkill to certify this.
“We believe that competence is one of our most important keys to success and are working hard to establish an optimally designed competence management system for NYK,” says Ashwin Atre, managing director and chief operation officer of NYK Ship Management. “The periodic audits by DNV help ensure that we are on the right path.”
He adds,“With assessment schemes such as the one for superintendents, we also get useful input allowing us to develop individual tailor-made competence plans and provide training according to each employee’s needs. We are also looking with interest at the Competence Standard for LNG Cargo operators.”
Haukelid predicts that only the best-run organisations in the maritime industry will be able to meet the exacting demands of the standard and certification process. “Over a period of time, it will make it possible for leading companies, such as NYK, to separate themselves from the followers. The end result will be a more professional approach to competence.”