Introduction
The Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator (LCHS) course is one of the most important and specialised training programmes for officers serving on tanker vessels. Whether you are on an oil tanker, chemical tanker or gas carrier, the LCHS course equips you with the skills to handle liquid cargo safely and efficiently.
In this complete guide we cover everything you need to know about the LCHS course — what it is, who needs it, what it covers and how to enrol at GMC Maritime Training Centre in Navi Mumbai.
What is the LCHS Course?
The Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator (LCHS) course is a simulator-based training programme that teaches tanker officers how to safely load, discharge and manage liquid cargo operations on oil, chemical and gas tankers.
The LCHS course at GMC Maritime is developed per:
- IMO Model Course 2.06 and 1.37
- STCW 78 Table A-II/2 and Section A-V/1
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Part 1.0 to 3.3.3
Who Needs the LCHS Course?
The LCHS course is essential for:
- Chief Officers on tanker vessels
- Deck Officers joining oil, chemical or gas tankers
- Officers preparing for SIRE 2.0 vetting inspections
- Officers seeking advanced tanker endorsement
- Officers joining their first tanker vessel
What Does the LCHS Course Cover?
The LCHS course at GMC Maritime covers:
- Tanker Familiarisation — types of tankers, cargo systems and equipment
- Cargo Loading Operations — planning, execution and monitoring
- Cargo Discharge Operations — procedures, safety checks and documentation
- Ballast Operations — ballast water management during cargo operations
- Inert Gas Systems — operation and safety requirements
- Crude Oil Washing (COW) — procedures and safety precautions
- Emergency Procedures — cargo spill response, fire fighting and evacuation
- MARPOL Compliance — pollution prevention during cargo operations
- SIRE 2.0 Requirements — vetting inspection preparation
- Simulator Exercises — hands-on practice on full-mission cargo simulator
LCHS Course Compliance
The LCHS course at GMC Maritime is fully compliant with:
| Standard | Reference |
|---|---|
| IMO Model Course | 2.06 & 1.37 |
| STCW 78 | Table A-II/2 & Section A-V/1 |
| OCIMF SIRE 2.0 | Part 1.0 to 3.3.3 |
LCHS Course Duration
| Programme | Duration |
|---|---|
| LCHS – Oil/Chemical/Gas | 5 Days |
Why is LCHS Important for SIRE 2.0?
OCIMF’s SIRE 2.0 vetting programme places significant emphasis on cargo handling competency. Inspectors will specifically assess officers on:
- Knowledge of cargo systems and equipment
- Understanding of cargo operations and emergency procedures
- Familiarity with MARPOL requirements
- Practical cargo handling skills
Completing the LCHS course at GMC Maritime directly prepares officers for SIRE 2.0 vetting inspections and demonstrates a high level of competency to inspectors.
Why Choose GMC Maritime for LCHS?
At GMC Maritime Training Centre, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai we offer:
- Full-mission liquid cargo simulator
- Expert instruction by experienced tanker officers
- STCW and SIRE 2.0 compliant certification
- Small batch sizes for personalised training
- Practical simulator exercises for oil, chemical and gas tankers
How to Enrol
- Visit our course page: LCHS Course – GMC Maritime
- Fill in the enquiry form
- Our team will contact you within 24 hours
Contact GMC Maritime:
- 📞 +91-9136319685
- 📧 courses@gmcmaritime.com
- 📍 CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai – 400614
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the LCHS course mandatory for tanker officers? A: LCHS is required under STCW Section A-V/1 for officers serving on tankers. It is also strongly recommended for SIRE 2.0 vetting preparation.
Q: Does the LCHS course cover gas tankers? A: Yes, GMC Maritime’s LCHS course covers oil, chemical and gas tanker operations.
Q: How long is the LCHS certificate valid? A: STCW tanker endorsements are typically valid for 5 years. Check with your flag state for specific requirements.
Q: Can I do LCHS along with other courses? A: Yes, many officers combine LCHS with SIRE 2.0 recommended courses. Contact us for combined scheduling.
Conclusion
The LCHS course is an essential qualification for any officer serving on tanker vessels. It not only fulfils STCW requirements but also prepares you for SIRE 2.0 vetting inspections and makes you a more competent and confident tanker officer.
