Working as a Loading Master-PIC..

An introduction to marine transfer operations between ships, barges, and marine terminals

Working as a Loading Master or dock operator for several years it has come to my attention that there is no standardized program in the training of dock operators here in the United States like there is for the Tankermen who attend USCG certified schools and subsequently receive a Tankerman PIC endorsement on their Merchant Mariners Document (MMD). Not to take anything away from the professional skills of the tankermen, the dock operators (Loading Master-PIC) position is just as vital and important in conducting a marine transfer operation. So why isn't the training and preparation for the job not up to par with the Tankerman's training and preparation who is also a marine transfer operator?

Hopefully, the marine transfer operation website will assist in filling the gaps in the knowledge and skill areas that dock operators (Lading Master-PIC) need in conducting safe and environmentally compliant transfer operations. I'll be probing into many subject areas across a wide spectrum from maritime security to environmental regulations and the nuts and bolts aspects of how it relates to dockside transfer operations.

Link to source...