Purpose
Barge Supervisor course is as per IMO Resolution A.1079(28) adopted on 4th Dec 2013. This course is applicable for non propulsion vessel such as Construction, Pipe-lay and Accommodation barges; Semisub and Jackup drilling units etc which use anchor to stay in position.
Barge Supervisor course is open to any mid level offshore rig worker. In addition, BCO course (MOU Stability) is required for Barge Supervisor job. This Course is Approved by Liberia (LISCR) Flag State.
Prerequisite
1) Three years of service aboard MOUs including one year of service as driller, assistant driller, toolpusher, assistant tool pusher, mechanic, electrician, crane operator, subset specialist, ballast control operator or equivalent supervisory position on MOUs.
OR
2) Hold a Bachelor of Science degree from a recognized school of technology and have one year of service as driller, assistant driller, toolpusher, assistant toolpusher, mechanic, electrician, crane operator, sub sea specialist, ballast control operator or equivalent supervisory position on MOUs.
The syllabus as per IMO guidelines:
1. Stability and construction
The stability concepts specified for the ballast control operator plus a period of service in that capacity
2. Construction
Principles of construction, structural members, watertight integrity and damage control
3. Emergency duties:
Responsibilities set forth in the emergency plan or operating manual relating to the safety of the MOU
4. Communications: barge supervisor
Communication procedures for normal operations and for an emergency
5. Safe working practices: barge master
.1 occupational safety, health and hygiene
.2 hazardous areas
.3 permits to work
.4 work over water
.5 work in enclosed spaces (see resolution A.1050(27))
.6 personnel training
.7 understanding and inspection of safety equipment
6. Regulatory requirements:
International and national regulations and recommendations affecting operations
7. Emergency first aid: barge master
Provision of first aid to a casualty pending transfer to a medical facility
8. Transit operations: barge supervisor
.1 The 1972 Collision Regulations, as amended
.2 navigation and electronic navigational aids appropriate to the type of MOU
.3 towing procedures, including recovery of tow
9. Seamanship
.1 heavy weather
.2 store and bulk liquid transfer
.3 manoeuvring and positioning
.4 anchor handling
.5 dynamic positioning, if applicable
The course is approved by Liberia Flag State (LISCR). On completion of the course, we issue you a Liberia Approved Certificate of Proficiency. The certificate is valid to work on any type of floaters – may be jackup, semisub or any vessel. The certificate is also acceptable to most of the flag state having presence in offshore sector. The certificate is valid for the lifetime and has no expiry.
Course | Fee (INR) | Date Commence | Duration | Course Timing | Remarks |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BS | 55,000 | Once Every Month | 5 days | Online-Time Zone Adjust | LISCR (Liberia) Approved |
Overview
The Barge Supervisor / Barge Master Course is designed for individuals aspiring to supervise and manage non-propulsion vessels, such as construction, pipe-lay, accommodation barges, and offshore units including jack-up and semi-submersible drilling platforms. The course aligns with the IMO Resolution A.1079(28), adopted on December 4, 2013, and is applicable to Mobile Offshore Units (MOUs) that use anchoring systems for positioning.
This course prepares candidates for positions such as Barge Supervisor, Barge Master, or other supervisory roles on MOUs. In addition, the Ballast Control Operator (BCO) course in MOU Stability is a mandatory qualification for this role. The course is approved by Liberia (LISCR) Flag State and is recognized internationally.
Who Should Attend?
The course is open to offshore professionals with mid-level experience on rigs or non-propulsion vessels, including:
• Offshore rig workers seeking advancement to supervisory roles
• Barge workers aiming to become Barge Supervisors
• Individuals pursuing certification as a Barge Master
Prerequisites
Candidates must meet one of the following criteria to enroll in the Barge Supervisor / Barge Master Course:
1. Work Experience:
o A minimum of three years of service aboard MOUs, including one year of experience in supervisory roles such as Driller, Assistant Driller, Toolpusher, Mechanic, Electrician, Crane Operator, Subsea Specialist, Ballast Control Operator (BCO), or equivalent.
2. Educational Background:
o A Bachelor of Science degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field, along with one year of experience in one of the above supervisory positions on MOUs.
Course Syllabus
The course content follows IMO guidelines and includes the following modules:
1. Stability and Construction
• Stability concepts for BCOs and practical application based on experience in that role.
• Structural principles, watertight integrity, and damage control in non-propulsion vessels.
2. Emergency Duties
• Responsibilities outlined in the MOU Emergency Plan and operating manual, with a focus on the safety of personnel and the unit.
3. Communication for Supervisors
• Communication protocols during both normal operations and emergencies for the Barge Supervisor.
4. Safe Working Practices
• Occupational safety, health, and hygiene for Barge Master and crew.
• Managing hazardous areas, permits to work, work over water, enclosed spaces, and more.
• Personnel training and inspection of safety equipment.
5. Regulatory Compliance
• International and national regulations governing offshore operations and MOUs.
6. Emergency First Aid
• Provision of immediate first aid for injured personnel until medical help arrives.
7. Transit Operations
• Understanding 1972 Collision Regulations and navigation for MOUs.
• Towing procedures and dynamic positioning techniques.
8. Seamanship Skills
• Practical seamanship, including heavy weather management, anchor handling, store and bulk liquid transfer, and more.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the Barge Supervisor / Barge Master Course, participants will receive a Liberia Flag State (LISCR) Approved Certificate of Proficiency. This certification is internationally recognized and valid for a lifetime, with no expiration date. It qualifies you to work on any type of floating offshore unit, including jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles, and other vessels.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this course are eligible to work in a variety of roles, such as:
• Barge Supervisor: Supervising offshore operations and ensuring safety.
• Barge Master: Managing the overall operation of barges, including jack-up rigs and other offshore installations.
• Other Supervisory Roles: Positions on MOUs, construction vessels, and accommodation platforms.
This course opens up opportunities to work in the global offshore oil and gas industry, providing a solid foundation for a high-paying career. Based on location and experience, Barge Supervisor salaries and Barge Master salaries can range from INR 12,00,000 to INR 30,00,000 annually.
FAQs
1. What does a Barge Master do?
A Barge Master manages the overall operations of a non-propulsion vessel, including personnel management, safety, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.
2. How to become a Barge Master?
Becoming a Barge Master typically requires several years of offshore experience and certification through courses like the Barge Supervisor / Barge Master Course.
3. Is this course available internationally?
Yes, the course is available virtually and recognized internationally, with certifications accepted by multiple flag states.