What is the pass mark for the IAMI EPA level 2 Seafarer (deck rating)?

The pass mark is typically 70% for the knowledge test, but the overall assessment requires a 'pass' in all components: practical observation, professional discussion, and knowledge test. If you fail one component, you can retake it within a specified period (usually 3 months). Check your assessment plan for exact details.

How long does the IAMI EPA practical observation take?

The practical observation usually lasts 2-4 hours, depending on the tasks assessed. You'll be observed performing routine deck duties such as mooring, cargo handling, and safety drills. The assessor will watch your technique, safety awareness, and ability to follow instructions.

Can I use notes during the professional discussion?

No, you cannot use notes. The professional discussion is a face-to-face conversation with the assessor to test your depth of knowledge. However, you can refer to your training record book (TRB) if needed, but it's better to speak from experience. Prepare by reviewing your TRB entries and practising explaining your roles.

What happens if I fail the IAMI EPA?

If you fail, you can retake the failed component(s) after a period of further training or practice. You must wait at least 14 days before retaking. Your training provider will support you with additional coaching. There is no limit on retakes, but you must pass within 2 years of starting the EPA process.

Do I need to know COLREGs for the EPA?

Yes, COLREGs are essential. You'll be tested on key rules like look-out (Rule 5), safe speed (Rule 6), risk of collision (Rule 7), and action to avoid collision (Rule 8). For deck rating level, focus on understanding the practical application rather than memorising every rule number.

How is the IAMI EPA different from the STCW basic training?

STCW basic training covers mandatory safety certificates (e.g., firefighting, survival). The IAMI EPA assesses your competence as a deck rating in real shipboard tasks, including watchkeeping, mooring, and cargo work. It's a higher-level qualification that proves you can apply those safety skills in a working environment.

IAMI EPA for level 2 standard ST0274 Seafarer (deck rating) - Core Content

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME INSTITUTIONS

vocational

This subtopic addresses the essential practical and theoretical knowledge required for a Level 2 Seafarer (Deck Rating) under the IAMI EPA standard ST0274, focusing on safe deck operations, watchkeeping duties, and routine maintenance tasks. Learners must demonstrate competence in mooring, anchoring, cargo handling, and emergency procedures in accordance with STCW guidelines and maritime industry best practices. The assessment verifies readiness to perform effectively as a deck rating on board merchant vessels.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

IAMI EPA for level 2 standard ST0274 Seafarer (deck rating)

Topic Overview

The IAMI EPA for level 2 standard ST0274 Seafarer (deck rating) is the end-point assessment that validates your competence as a deck rating. It covers essential maritime skills including navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, and safety procedures. This assessment is crucial because it confirms you can perform watchkeeping duties, handle mooring lines, assist with cargo operations, and respond to emergencies—all while adhering to international maritime regulations. Passing this EPA is your gateway to a professional career at sea, demonstrating to employers that you meet the industry's rigorous standards.

This topic integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. You'll be tested on your ability to apply STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) requirements in real-world scenarios. The assessment includes a practical observation, a professional discussion, and a knowledge test. Understanding the full scope of a deck rating's responsibilities—from maintaining lookouts to operating deck equipment—is vital. Mastery of this content ensures you can contribute effectively to a ship's safe and efficient operation, making you a valuable crew member from day one.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Watchkeeping duties: Maintaining a proper lookout, reporting sightings, and understanding COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).
→Mooring and anchoring: Correct procedures for securing the vessel, including line handling, winch operation, and anchor work.
→Cargo handling: Safe loading, stowage, and securing of cargo, including knowledge of lashing and dunnage.
→Safety and emergency response: Proficiency in firefighting, lifeboat drills, and use of personal survival techniques (PST).
→Maintenance and housekeeping: Routine cleaning, painting, and preservation of deck areas and equipment.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

Understand the key principles and practices
Apply knowledge in practical contexts
Demonstrate competency in core skills

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for correctly demonstrating safe mooring operations including line handling, winch use, and proper communication with bridge team.
Assess evidence of accurate lookout duties, such as maintaining visual and auditory watch, reporting sightings according to COLREGs, and using approved shipboard terminology.
Confirm ability to perform routine deck maintenance tasks (e.g., painting, greasing, chipping) using appropriate tools and PPE, with clear adherence to risk assessments.
Require demonstration of emergency response drills (fire, man overboard, abandon ship) where the candidate follows muster list duties, correctly dons lifejacket/immersion suit, and deploys survival craft effectively.
Evaluate knowledge of pollution prevention regulations (MARPOL) through practical waste segregation and reporting of oil spills during simulated scenarios.

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Demonstrate consistent use of closed-loop communication (repeat-back) in all practical assessments to show you understand and follow instructions precisely.
💡Verbally narrate your actions during practical tasks to make your knowledge and safety awareness explicit to the assessor, especially when identifying hazards.
💡Review the vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS) checklists before practical scenarios; using them systematically shows professional discipline and reduces errors.
💡Practice all knot-tying and line-throwing exercises until muscle memory ensures quick, correct execution even under the time pressures of the assessment.
💡During the practical observation, demonstrate clear communication and teamwork. Use standard maritime phrases and acknowledge orders promptly. Examiners look for safe working practices and situational awareness.
💡In the professional discussion, link your answers to real experiences from your sea service. Use specific examples of tasks you performed, challenges you faced, and how you applied STCW principles. This shows depth of understanding.
💡For the knowledge test, memorise key COLREGs rules (especially 5, 7, 8, and 19) and emergency procedures. Practice recalling them under time pressure, as the test is often multiple-choice with a tight time limit.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Failing to maintain a proper lookout by the apprentice not scanning all sectors, leading to missed navigational hazards or lights; often due to distraction or fatigue.
Incorrectly tying essential knots (e.g., bowline, clove hitch, round turn and two half hitches) under pressure, which can compromise mooring and towing safety.
Neglecting to verify the correct positioning of rat guards and secure mooring lines after berthing, increasing the risk of vessel drift or pest infestation.
Omitting two-way communication confirmation during crane or winch operations, potentially causing accidents due to misunderstood signals.
Misconception: 'Lookout duty is just watching for other ships.' Correction: Lookout also involves monitoring for navigational hazards, weather changes, and debris, and must be reported immediately to the officer of the watch.
Misconception: 'Mooring lines can be handled casually.' Correction: Mooring lines are under extreme tension and can snap with lethal force. Always wear gloves, stand clear of the bight, and follow the officer's commands precisely.
Misconception: 'Cargo securing is the same for all cargo types.' Correction: Different cargoes (e.g., containers, bulk grain, heavy lift) require specific lashing methods and calculations to prevent shifting during voyage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•Completion of the mandatory STCW basic safety training courses (PST, firefighting, first aid, and personal safety and social responsibility).
•Sufficient sea service (usually 6-12 months) as a deck rating trainee, with a completed training record book (TRB) signed by your mentor.
•Basic understanding of navigation terms, ship construction, and maritime terminology covered in the level 2 diploma.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Core knowledge
Practical application

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IAMI EPA for level 2 standard ST0274 Seafarer (deck rating) - Core Content

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

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