IAMI EPA for level 2 standard ST0952 Fisher

INTERNATIONAL-ASSOCIATION-OF-MARITIME-INSTITUTIONS

vocational

This element covers the essential core skills and underpinning knowledge required of a competent fisher operating at Level 2, as defined by the ST0952 apprenticeship standard. It integrates safety-critical procedures, sustainable fishing practices, and practical seamanship to ensure effective and compliant deck operations. Mastery of this content is demonstrated through real-world application aboard a fishing vessel, where candidates must evidence both technical proficiency and a deep understanding of maritime legislation.

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Key Terms

Mark Points

What You Need to Demonstrate

Key skills and knowledge for this topic

Award credit for correctly identifying and mitigating common deck hazards (e.g., slips, trips, entanglement)
Look for accurate demonstration of donning a lifejacket or immersion suit within specified time limits
Require evidence of effective communication using standard maritime phraseology during watch handover
Assess ability to grade fish by size and species according to market specifications
Check for proper stowage of gear to prevent shifting and maintain vessel stability
Expect reference to relevant sections of MGNs, COSWP, or vessel safety management system when discussing procedures

Marking Points

Key points examiners look for in your answers

Award credit for correctly identifying and mitigating common deck hazards (e.g., slips, trips, entanglement)
Look for accurate demonstration of donning a lifejacket or immersion suit within specified time limits
Require evidence of effective communication using standard maritime phraseology during watch handover
Assess ability to grade fish by size and species according to market specifications
Check for proper stowage of gear to prevent shifting and maintain vessel stability
Expect reference to relevant sections of MGNs, COSWP, or vessel safety management system when discussing procedures

Examiner Tips

Expert advice for maximising your marks

💡When demonstrating knot tying or splicing, practise until you can complete the task confidently in poor visibility or while wearing gloves
💡For catch handling scenarios, always vocalise your reasoning: e.g., explaining why ice-to-fish ratio matters for shelf life
💡In oral questioning, back up your answers with references to real incidents or near-misses to show situational awareness
💡During practical assessments on machinery, perform pre-start checks aloud; examiners often credit systematic safety routines

Common Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

Confusing different types of personal locator beacons (e.g., EPIRB vs. PLB) and their activation methods
Misidentifying fish species, leading to incorrect quota records or market rejection
Failing to secure loose items on deck before hauling gear, increasing injury risk
Over-reliance on electronic navigation aids without cross-referencing traditional methods or visual fixes

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Maritime safety and survival

Vessel handling and seamanship

Catch handling and quality

Environmental and regulatory compliance

Equipment maintenance and fault finding

Ready to test yourself?

Practice questions tailored to this topic