(This note is not part of the Regulations)
These Regulations require every fisherman born on or after 1st March 1954 or employed or engaged on a fishing vessel registered in the United Kingdom (other than a certificated deck officer or certificated engineer officer) to undergo training in basic survival at sea, basic fire fighting and prevention and basic first aid at an establishment approved by the Secretary of State. Holders of Skipper and Second Hand certificates issued under section 414 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894 (who will have received training in first aid), if they were born on or after 1st March 1954 will be required to undergo approved training courses in basic survival at sea and basic fire-fighting and prevention. For fishermen born on or after 1st March 1954 already employed on fishing vessels registered in the United Kingdom the date by which training must be completed varies according to the age-group of the fisherman. New entrants must complete the required training before going to sea.
The Regulations, which are made under sections 21 and 22 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1979, originated with section 7 of the Safety at Sea Act 1986.
Merchant Shipping Notices are obtainable from the Department of Transport Marine Library, Sunley House, 90 High Holborn, London WC1V 6LP and from any Department of Transport Marine Office.