IGF Code Basic Training

IGF Code Basic Training – safe operation of low-flashpoint fuels

The maritime industry is transitioning towards low-flashpoint fuels such as LNG and methanol. While these fuels offer significant environmental benefits, they also introduce new operational, technical and safety challenges.

This IGF Code Basic Training course provides the knowledge and practical understanding required to operate and work safely with low-flashpoint fuels in accordance with the IGF Code and STCW A-V/3-1 requirements.

Outcome

What can you expect

You gain insight into fuel properties, fuel systems and safety procedures, and learn how these interact in daily maritime operations. The course supports safe handling, reduces operational risks, and prepares you to work confidently with alternative fuels.

Delivered by marine engineers, maritime specialists and fuel experts, the course combines regulatory requirements with practical, real-world knowledge. Drawing on Force Technology’s experience within maritime engineering, testing and investigation, the training goes beyond compliance and helps you understand the technology behind the rules.

Who is the course relevant for

The course is designed for maritime personnel who require IGF Code basic certification and need a clear understanding of safe fuel handling.

Typical participants include:

Officers and ratings serving on Danish ships
But the course is also highly relevant for:
Superintendents and fleet management personnel
Service and commissioning engineers working on alternative-fuel systems
Organisations preparing for the transition to methanol, LNG or future fuels

What you will gain from the course

The course gives you a practical understanding of how to work safely with low-flashpoint fuels in maritime environments.

You learn how fuel properties, systems and safety procedures interact in daily operations, and how to reduce risks during handling and use.

What your organisation gains

The course strengthens your organisation’s ability to operate safely with alternative fuels and comply with regulatory requirements.

You reduce operational risk through better understanding of fuel behaviour and safety procedures.

At the same time, crews become more confident and capable in handling new fuel systems, improving both safety and operational readiness.

The course also supports your transition to alternative fuels by building essential competencies across roles and functions.

Content and process

Course content and format

The course combines classroom teaching, practical exercises and case-based learning to ensure a strong link between theory and practice.

You work with:

Properties of low-flashpoint fuels such as LNG, methanol and ammonia
Fuel storage and supply systems
IGF Code requirements and safety management principles
Hazard identification and risk mitigation
Gas detection and monitoring systems
Safe working practices and use of PPE
Bunkering operations and procedures
Fire prevention and firefighting methods
Emergency response systems
Pollution prevention measures

Practical elements include equipment familiarisation, scenario-based exercises and firefighting training conducted with external specialists.

Prerequisites and level

This is a basic-level course.

Participants must meet the applicable qualification requirements for service in deck, engine or dual-purpose roles on Danish ships.

No prior experience with low-flashpoint fuels is required.

Meet your instructor

Lars Nøhr-Nielsen

Lars holds a background in chemical engineering and has specialised in materials science, with particular focus on the behaviour of materials in various environments. His expertise includes assessing risks associated with the use of materials under conditions involving pressure, temperature, and potentially aggressive media.

This knowledge underpins his extensive experience in failure analysis across a wide range of equipment and structures. In addition, Lars has significant expertise in designing customised test setups and conducting performance tests, including handling the associated reaction chemistry.

Lars has been with Force Technology for more than 25 years. Over this period, he has also been actively involved in organising and delivering courses in areas such as maintenance management—including risk-based inspection (RBI) and reliability-centred maintenance (RCM)—surface treatment evaluation, piping deterioration, and engine failure analysis.

John Nielsen

John is a Marine Engineer with 17 years of experience in maritime operations and technical engineering. He has sailed with Maersk and Esvagt as a Second Engineer, with responsibility for the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine systems. He has a strong focus on troubleshooting, safety, and regulatory compliance.

At Force Technology, John specializes in accredited calibration, quality assurance and emission measurements. He is also involved in projects related to green fuels, supporting classification processes and ensuring compliance with environmental and technical standards.

Frej Anton Alwerud

Frej is a Master Mariner with more than 20 years of seagoing experience, most recently serving as Captain on ULCC vessels. His career has provided him with extensive practical knowledge of ship handling, strong nautical expertise, and hands-on experience with human factors in maritime operations.

At Force Technology, Frej works with simulator training, port studies, and the testing of new vessel designs, combining operational insight with solid technical understanding. As an instructor, he draws on his maritime background to deliver training that is practical, relevant, and closely aligned with the realities of ship operations.

Exam and certification

A written examination is conducted at the end of the course.
Certification is issued in accordance with STCW A V/3 1 upon successful completion.
Force Technology is an established provider of maritime training approved by Danish Maritime Authority and DNV.

Tailor the course to your organisation

This course can be adapted so participants work with your systems, data and real-world challenges from your organisation. Plan a tailored course for your team

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Reach out to Clara Giarrusso for more information.