VIKING responds to the growing demand for realistic centre-based training

Among the latest deliveries are VIKING Evacuation Chute systems to the training centre in Rostock, Germany and to Tallink's close training partner, the Reval Maritime School in Tallinn, Estonia.

Rise in demand for realistic training systems
Although rules requiring crew members with evacuation responsibilities already exist, some cruise companies are going a step further by introducing training for all crew members – even those on short contracts, such as musicians and entertainers.

Not only is the trend to increase the extent of crew member training, this training is increasingly being carried out at purpose built training centres.

Training centre CESAME, St. Malo, France

Training centres make evacuation system training safer, easier and more economic
Sending crew members to training centres is a more economic and viable alternative to launching a system at port. Tight turnaround time and other duties can limit the time that is available for system training – there may simply not be enough time in port. At specialised training centres, crew receive thorough training from approved trainers and use the systems in controlled conditions. Some centres can simulate sea and weather conditions for even more realistic training.

One of the latest training centres to extend their training to include passenger evacuation systems is the Schifffahrtsschule in Rostock. Already known for their maritime training, they will be offering evacuation system training with a VIKING evacuation chute training system. Though slightly adapted from the on board chute system, the chute is basically the same design as crew members will meet on board. As part of the delivery, VIKING instructors held a two-day course to ensure that those conducting the training are confident with the system and can provide first-class, realistic training.

The Finnish company, Tallink are also investing in a chute training system, which is currently being installed at the Reval Maritime School in Tallinn, Estonia. VIKING training systems have also been installed in several training centres across Europe.