This course provides general guidance and practical advice to marine engineers and ship owners on blackouts and main engine failures, addressing the risks associated with propulsion loss and the precautions needed to manage these risks.

The course is not a replacement for official IMO regulations, guidance notes, or any documents forming part of a vessel’s safety management system.

Blackouts, propulsion limitations, total loss of propulsion, and loss of steering capability are all serious incidents. While such events in non-congested waters may increase risks to the vessel and personnel, they rarely lead to life-threatening outcomes. However, these risks become critical and may result in major casualties during manoeuvres in restricted areas, such as traffic lanes, port entries or exits, or close coastal navigation in heavy weather.

The course covers the essential aspects of ship propulsion, including the causes and consequences of propulsion loss, illustrated by real-life cases such as the Baltimore Bridge collapse. It offers recommendations for preventive and corrective actions, focusing on areas requiring specific attention to ensure the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.

It is important to stress that you always orient yourself towards your engine room's specifications and follow your shipping company-approved procedures.

The course concludes with an assessment to ensure a thorough understanding and readiness to apply this knowledge in real-world situations.

Topics in this Course

Shareable Certificate

Certificate of Completion

• Earn a Seably certificate of completion
• Download or print out as PDF to share with others
• Share online to demonstrate your new skill

Course Author

Reza KAPO

With a distinguished career in maritime engineering, I bring to the table a wealth of experience from both practical and academic perspectives. I served for over a decade as a marine engineer at sea, mentoring numerous cadets throughout my tenure, with my most recent role being that of a chief engineer.

Over the past seven years, I have pursued an advanced academic path and proudly hold a Master's Degree and a PhD in Maritime Affairs from two prestigious European universities.

My academic pursuits didn't confine me to the classroom. I have actively participated in European maritime research projects as a consultant, continually updating my knowledge across various shipping facets, including the regulatory framework, decarbonization, safety, and marine environmental pollution prevention.

Since 2017, I have transitioned into academia, utilizing my hands-on experience and scholarly insights to impart maritime knowledge. I've been involved in a broad spectrum of STCW and IMO courses, delivering lectures to marine officers at various institutes and academies across Europe.

View courses • See full profile