Written by Farhana Samat, Ship Operator
The realm of chemistry, with its intricate dance of atoms and molecules, came alive in Odfjell's chemistry course for ship operators of batch #4, which commenced on February 26, in the vibrant city-state of Singapore.
The journey began with our chemistry expert, Ton van Oeffel, leading the first six in-person sessions until March 8, leaving an indelible mark with his profound knowledge, humility, and patience.
The initial sessions of the course beckoned the participants to revisit the fundamentals with a 'back to school' approach. Concepts like atoms, molecules, the periodic table and chemical bonds were explored, setting the stage for a more profound understanding of the chemical universe.
As the course unfolded, the terrain became more challenging, delving into serious topics such as chemical reactions and the classification of chemicals. Ton, with his expertise, guided participants through the complexities, making the learning process both engaging and enlightening.
The course then ventured into topics like stainless steel and coatings. These practical subjects provided invaluable insights into tank preparation and stowage, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its real-world applications. Participants found these sessions particularly helpful, as they enhanced their comprehension of the intricacies involved in the safe handling and storage of chemicals.
Following the in-person sessions, the course shall transition to a virtual format, utilizing Teams sessions every Tuesday until May 28.
As the course hurtles towards its conclusion, the ship operators are expected to gear up for the ultimate test (the amalgamation of theoretical knowledge, practical applications, and collaborative learning experiences).
