Vessel Traffic Services Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Vessel Traffic Services Operator. The Vessel Traffic Services Operator plans, organises and manages the human-, physical- and operational aspects of the Vessel Traffic Service Centre to improve the safety and efficiency of navigation, safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment and/or the adjacent shore area, worksites and offshore installations from possible adverse effects of maritime traffic. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform traffic management duties. • Identify dangerous cargoes aboard vessels and follow associated protocol. • Perform, co-ordinate and manage port related duties. • Manage the receipt, analysis and dissemination of shipping information. • Safeguard uncleared vessels before entering port limits. • Identify incidents, emergency situations, and special circumstances and execute and manage contingency plans. • Ensure legal compliance.

In recent years, there has been a rapid expansion in Vessel Traffic Services (VTSs), which has led to a significant increase in the number of VTS operators required worldwide. The services offered by VTSs vary considerably, and range from simple broadcasts of meteorological and hydrological information, through the exchange of information to sophisticated navigational advice and in circumstances where the authority exists, navigation-related instruction. The VTS traffic image is compiled and collected by means of advanced sensors such as radar, Automatic Identification System (AIS), direction finding, CCTV, and VHF or other co-operative systems and services. A modern VTS integrates all of the information into a single operator working environment for ease of use and in order to allow for effective traffic organisation and communication. A VTS should always have a comprehensive traffic image, which means that all factors influencing the traffic as well as information about all participating vessels and their intentions should be readily available. By means of the traffic image, situations that are developing can be evaluated and responded upon. The data evaluation depends to a great extent on the quality of the data that is collected and the ability of the operator to combine this with an actual or developing situation. The data dissemination process of conveying the conclusions of the operator exists. A major factor in the efficient operation of a VTS centre is the standard of competence of its personnel. Recognising that VTS personnel are members of a profession whose principle interaction is with mariners and maritime pilots for the safe management of maritime traffic, their competence needs to reflect that professional responsibility. VTS personnel should be capable of interacting with vessel traffic in a VTS area. All VTS personnel should be appropriately trained before they undertake the duties associated with the type of services provided such as Information Service (INS), Navigational Assistance Service (NAS) and/or Traffic Organisation Service (TOS). In order to carry out the duties required by a VTS Authority, VTS personnel should be appropriately trained and qualified to IALA V-103 standards. This means that VTS training is performed according to the Model Courses developed by International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). It is for the VTS Authority to ensure that appropriately trained personnel are available to undertake these commitments. In order to ensure that IALA standards for VTS training meet the appropriate level, the VTS training courses should be accredited by the Competent Authority. This should help to ensure the competence of personnel that occupy operational positions in a VTS Centre.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Level 4 with Mathematics, Physical Science and English Communication.

• Ensure seamless traffic flow within port limits.
• Take appropriate action to identify dangerous cargoes aboard vessels as per associated protocol.
• Perform, co-ordinate and manage port-related duties as prescribed by national and international regulations and legislation.
• Manage the receipt, analysis, and dissemination of shipping information.
• Safeguard uncleared vessels entering port limits.
• Identify incidents, emergency situations, and special circumstances and execute and manage contingency plans.
• Ensure legal compliance within the port.