The Refresher Training for Proficiency in Advanced Fire Fighting (R-AFF) is a mandatory one-day course designed for seafarers whose five-year Advanced Fire Fighting certificate is nearing its expiration date. Under the international STCW conventions and the strict guidelines of the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) in India, this course is vital for maintaining the operational validity of a Certificate of Competency (CoC). The training is not merely a formality but a critical opportunity to refresh the strategic and tactical skills required to lead fire-fighting teams in the complex and hazardous environment of a merchant vessel. It ensures that the senior crew remains sharp and prepared to handle large-scale fire emergencies that require more than just basic extinguishing techniques.
The curriculum focuses on the practical re-evaluation of leadership in fire parties, the management of fixed fire-suppression systems, and the coordination of emergency responses between the bridge and the engine room. Trainees are required to demonstrate their proficiency in using Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and navigating smoke-filled environments to locate casualties or isolate fire sources. In the current maritime landscape, the refresher also covers updates in fire-fighting technology and the specific risks associated with modern cargo and fuel systems. By simulating high-stress scenarios, the course helps officers maintain the mental fortitude and technical dexterity needed to protect human life and multi-million dollar maritime assets.
In India, the R-AFF process typically includes a mandatory e-learning phase followed by a day of intensive practical drills at a DG-approved maritime training institute. Successfully completing this course validates your ability to act as a fire-safety commander, ensuring that the vessel's fire-fighting organization remains robust and effective. It is a non-negotiable requirement for all active Deck and Engine Officers serving on international-flagged ships.
