Updating Advanced Fire Fighting (UAFF)

Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
STCW Compliance
A-VI/3 Refresher
Legal codes this course fulfills under maritime law
Suitable For
Certified crew needing renewal
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
Sea service required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
1/2 Day
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
5 Years
How long your certificate stays valid

Why This
Course Matters

Required every five years to maintain your STCW Advanced Fire Fighting certificate. Essential for officers or designated crew in charge of fire parties and onboard fire response systems.

What You’ll
Learn

Command-Level Fire Response Refreshed

Practise managing fire teams, coordinating onboard response, and using fixed installations in advanced scenarios.

0
100

What’s Included

Professional-grade firefighting equipment
Comprehensive course materials
Daily hot lunch
Coffee station and snacks
Shower and towels
Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start

PREREQUSITES

PREREQUSITES
Minimum age

18 years old

Valid Advanced Fire Fighting (A-VI/3) certificate required

Certificate must be issued by a maritime authority of an IMO White List country

If AFF certificate is expired, candidate must have 6 months of documented sea service within the last 5 years or retake the full AFF course

Meet Your
Instructors

Tom Sebastian
Chief Instructor, Fire, Safety & Survival

With Galileo for 10 years, Tom brings extensive experience from commercial and cruise ships. His BSc in Management coupled with IMO certification ensures practical, engaging instruction based on real-world scenarios.

Jason Whitnell
Instructor, MCA Firefighting & Prevention

With 23 years in UK fire service and hands-on roles in marine firefighting, Jason brings unmatched depth to fire training. His operational insight and instructional clarity equip trainees for real emergencies, not just drills.

Frequently
Asked Questions

What is Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) Updating?

Advanced Fire Fighting Updating is the STCW refresher course for seafarers who already hold an Advanced Fire Fighting certificate and need to revalidate it to remain legally compliant. It refreshes command-level firefighting knowledge and practical leadership skills.

Who is required to take the AFF Updating course?

AFF Updating is required for officers and senior crew who hold Advanced Fire Fighting and are renewing their STCW certification as part of CoC revalidation or employer requirements. This typically includes OOW, Chief Mate, Master, and senior yacht crew.

Is this course MCA-approved and internationally recognised?

Yes. The course is delivered in accordance with Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) requirements and complies with STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. MCA approval ensures international recognition by flag states, yacht operators, insurers, and port authorities.

What is refreshed during Advanced Fire Fighting Updating?

The Updating course refreshes advanced firefighting command and control, including fire leadership, team coordination, breathing apparatus management, boundary cooling, casualty handling, and tactical decision-making during complex onboard fire scenarios.

What happens if I fail the exam or practical assessment?

If you do not meet the required standard, you are allowed to take a resit. Instructors will explain what needs improvement before reassessment. The objective is competence and safety, not elimination.

How important is English for AFF Updating?

English is essential — both written and verbal. You must understand complex briefings, issue clear commands during firefighting scenarios, and complete written exams in English. Communication is a critical leadership skill at this level.

How long is Advanced Fire Fighting valid after updating?

After successful completion, your Advanced Fire Fighting certification is revalidated for five years, in line with STCW and MCA requirements.

What should I bring or wear for AFF Updating?

For fire training, bring long socks covering your legs up to the knees. Wear suitable clothing for practical training. Students without appropriate protective clothing may not be permitted to participate in live-fire exercises.

Related courses
and packages

Updating Advanced Fire Fighting (UAFF)
1/2 Day
18 AUG 2026