MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC) – Part 1

Dates: Monday 17th November- 21st November 2025

This course provides students with the basic theoretical knowledge and some practical hands-on experience of diesel engines and systems to enable them to meet the requirements of the MCA Codes of Practice for the Safety of Large Commercial Sailing & Motor Vessels, the Safety of Small Commercial Motor Vessels and the Safety of Small Workboats & Pilot Boats. This is a 5 day course aimed at Engineer officers who want to pursue a career on “Small Vessels” (e.g. Fishing Vessels, Yachts, Tugs, Workboats, Standby Vessels)

Entry requirements:

1. Minimum 18 years of age.
2. There is no prior entry qualification to join this course.

Course Description:

There are 10 learning outcomes:

General principles of the operation of the compression ignition engine and spark ignition engine.

General principles of the cycle of operation and constructional details of diesel engines

Safe operation of the fuel system and management of fuel oil.

General principles and purposes of air in the combustion process.

Safe operation of the cooling system, including maintenance of pumping components.

Maintenance of the lubrication system and associated equipment.

General principles and operation of the electrical distribution system on-board, including engine electrical systems, batteries, and battery maintenance.

The power transmission arrangements, including gearbox, coupling, stern tube and propellers.

Hull fittings, ship-side valves, protective coatings and cathodic protection.

Legislative requirements of the pollution prevention and management of safe working practices, including principles of, risk assessment, fire prevention, control of entry into enclosed spaces and fire-fighting techniques.

provides the practical basic hands on training and theoretical knowledge of diesel engines to enable you to work on board Small Vessels as engineer/ dual deck engineer within the yacht, workboat, fishing, tugs sectors of the maritime industry.