If you have always dreamed of working on a commercial vessel, there may have been times in your life where it seemed like an unattainable goal that was always just out of reach. Maritime and Safety Training is here to prove that this dream is one you can live day in and day out once you complete our General Purpose Hand safety and training course.
What is a General Purpose Hand?
General Purpose Hand is often referred to as a deck hand. It is an entry-level rank that allows you to work on a wide range of different types of commercial vessels, from fishing vessels to tourist vessels to ferries and everything in between.
A General Purpose Hand is an invaluable member of the full crew. You report directly to the Master on duty to help make sure that the crew, the passengers, and the vessel itself are as safe and as secure as they can possibly be at all times.
What training is required?
Though General Purpose Hand is an entry-level position, that does not mean you can simply apply for a position and be hired without any previous experience. You will need to complete a safety and training course to prove your competency and obtain the certification necessary to unlock the career you are after.
Training typically involves a number of different factors, like going over the types of complicated nautical terminology that you will be required to use on a daily basis. You will also learn the ins and outs of vessel safety systems, so you become intimately familiar with the equipment and systems you will use to guarantee the safety of everyone who boards your vessel.
At the end of the course you will be issued MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal). This, after completion of the AMSA application, allows you to accept positions on many different types of vessels around the country.
Where to start
You can kick-start your maritime career as a General Purpose Hand much sooner than you probably thought. Check the current General Purpose Hand course dates and fees, or get in touch and we will walk you through it.
Many crew go on to complete their Coxswain Grade 1 next, which is the step up to operating the vessel yourself.
