Requirement
Transport Canada
- Bridge Watchman Certificate
Prerequisite Requirements
- Marine Medical Certificate
- MED A1 – Basic Safety* (MEDI 1000)
- Basic Safety Training (MEDI 1510)
- MED – Survival Craft (MEDI 1810)
Seaspan Requirements
- Marine Basic First Aid* (MSSM 1025)
- Pre-employment Drug & Alcohol Testing
- Physical & Aptitude Test
- Criminal Record Check
- Seaspan Deckhand Training Program (2 weeks)
- Supernumerary Requirement (14 days)
*Course included in Bridge Watchman Certificate Course at BCIT
Note: Completed MED A1 and B2 exempt applicant from requiring Basic Safety Training
What does a Deckhand Do?
- Deckhands handle deck lines, wires, and towing tackle for both the vessel/tug and on the vessel being towed. They may work with barges during a shift; a physically demanding task.
- Deckhands have limited duties in the engine room, and may be required to chip and paint the vessel.
- Deckhands must be able to use all safety and firefighting equipment on the vessel as well as utilize all built in safety features.
- Continuous Deckhand positions are expected to perform the duties of a Cook.
- Deckhand applicants are expected to undergo pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a physical and aptitude test, and a criminal record check. Continuous deckhand applicants must have a valid passport.
- Deckhands must be members in good standing with the International Long Shore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) local 400.
Click on Additional Resources:
- Transport Canada – Marine Certification Frequently Asked Questions Website
- Transport Canada – List of Authorized Marine Medical Examiners
- Transport Canada – Bridge Watchman Certificate
- Transport Canada – ‘Examinations and Certifications of Seafarers’ publication
- BCIT – Program and Course List (MED)
- Camosun College – MED Courses
- Western Maritime Institute – MEDs