General Purpose Hand Near Coastal

Deckhands carry out a range of basic duties essential to the running and maintenance of a boat or ship. The exact duties of a deckhand can vary depending on the type of vessel they work on.

Those working on sailing ships may have to climb tall masts and work in the ship’s rigging, while those working on a charter boat or ferry may spend more time taking care of passengers, sometimes serving drinks and food.

Regardless of the vessel, all deckhands assist in keeping the vessel clean and seaworthy, keeping lookout, steering and adjusting the course as directed and dealing with any emergencies that occur.

MAR10220 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal)

This qualification is suitable for people working in the maritime industry as a General Purpose Hand, which is sometimes referred to as a deck and/or engine room hand:

• Assist with deck work on a vessel <100 m long and <3000 GT
• Assist with engine work on a vessel with propulsion power <3000 kW

Licensing and Regulations

This level of qualification is currently cited as meeting some of the requirements for certification as a General Purpose Hand Near Coastal as defined by Marine Order 505 (Certificates of competency – National law) 2022. Certification will require achievement of:

• MAR10220 Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal)
• 5 days qualifying sea service on a commercial vessel and
• An Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) approved first aid certificate
• Meet the medical and eyesight requirements specified in the NSCV Part D.

Training Calendar and Enrolment Form

• Training Calendar
• Enrolment Form

AMSA Links for Certificate of Competency Application

• Certificate of Competency Application (AMSA 426)
• Eyesight and Medical Requirements for a domestic certificate (Marine Order 505)
• AMSA detailed information is available here