Course duration: 2 days

The COW and IGS (Crude Oil Washing and Inert Gas Systems) training is a highly technical course, crucial for Chief Mates, Masters, Engineer Officers, and pumpmen responsible for cargo operations. The program combines knowledge in the field of hydrocarbon chemistry, gas physics, and advanced engineering of pumping systems. The course teaches how to effectively protect the ship against explosion through precise atmosphere control, while maximizing discharge efficiency and minimizing pollution in accordance with rigorous environmental standards.

Requirements:

• A valid identity document (ID card / passport / mObywatel app)

The course price includes:

• Cost of issuing the certificate / attestation by the Maritime Office / Maritime School
• Coffee / tea
• Free parking

Additional fees:

• Courier delivery of documents (upon request)

Certificate validity:

• Indefinite (No expiration date)

Course program:

The training breaks down in detail two critical operating systems of a tanker:

• Inert Gas System (IGS) – operating principle of independent inert gas generators and systems based on cleaned flue gas from main boilers. Processes of lowering the oxygen level (below 8%), operation of gas scrubbers, blowers, and safety valves.
• Crude Oil Washing (COW) – MARPOL regulations enforcing the use of the COW system. Construction and operation of fixed washing machines (Crude Oil Washing Machines). Creating washing plans (COW Operations and Equipment Manual) in order to remove viscous deposits and maximize oil discharge.
• Tank atmosphere management – operational procedures: inerting, purging residual hydrocarbon gases, and gas-freeing to fresh air.
• Hazards and Troubleshooting – identification and prevention of electrostatic discharges during washing. Responding to IGS system failures at the peak of discharge and pressure drops in pipelines.

The program complies with:

• STCW Code Section A-V/1-1-2

What will you learn?

By participating in the training, you will gain expert, operational knowledge allowing you to:

• Independently and completely safely plan and supervise tank washing operations using crude oil cargo (COW), optimizing the ship’s turnaround time in port.
• Proficiently operate and monitor the control panels of the Inert Gas System, guaranteeing the maintenance of a stable, non-flammable atmosphere throughout the cargo space.
• Immediately and correctly respond to warning alarms (e.g., high oxygen level in the supplied inert gas, pressure drop in the deck water seal).
• Maintain flawless operational documentation, strictly verified by SIRE and Port State Control inspectors.

What does the training look like?

The training is characterized by a high level of technical and analytical advancement. Expert lectures are conducted by experienced Chief Mates from tankers. They include the analysis of procedures, interpretation of shipyard documentation, and case studies of real explosions on tankers resulting from the incorrect operation of COW/IGS systems.

Where does the training take place and is there parking?

The training takes place in Gdynia at 13A Polska Street. Free parking is located at 6 Chrzanowskiego Street. The barrier code is provided when the course is confirmed by the secretariat staff.