Responsibilities of the Officer of Watch and Master in Ship Navigation

The Officer of Watch and Ship Safety

The officer of watch is the Master's representative and his primary responsibility is, at all times, the safety of the ship. He is responsible for ensuring that the planned passage is properly carried out during his watch. He must at all times comply with the International Regulation for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, Master's standing orders, and Master's bridge order book.

Maintenance of Watch and Look-out

The officer of watch is responsible for the maintenance of a continuous and alert watch and look-out. Under no circumstances should he leave the bridge until being properly relieved.

Responsibilities of the Master

The Master is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship and ensuring that all watch-going navigation officers are adequately trained and fit for their duty. If not, special care has to be taken during the watch and proper training should be carried out for the familiarization of the officer.

Familiarization with Bridge Equipment

Watchkeeping officers have to be completely familiar with navigational equipment. Operating manuals must also be regularly consulted for this purpose. A record of defects has to be carefully performed and reported to the Master. Maintenance should be carried out according to manufacturers' instruction manuals.

Effective Bridge Organization

An effective bridge organization should efficiently manage all resources available to the bridge and promote good communications and teamwork. The bridge organization should be properly supported by a clear navigation policy incorporating shipboard operation procedures, in accordance with the company’s safety management system onboard ship as required by the ISM code.

Maintenance of a Proper Lookout

To ensure maintenance of a proper lookout, relevant factors including the experience of each OOW, familiarity with the ship’s equipment, procedures, and maneuvering capability, activities taking place on board the ship, and the operational status of bridge instrumentation and controls should be considered.

Use of the Main Engine

The officer of the watch should bear in mind that the engine is at his disposal for assistance in maneuvering. He should not hesitate to use it in case of need, although timely notice of an alteration of engine movements should be given when possible. Therefore, a full understanding and knowledge of the main engine bridge control panels are requested. The officer of the watch should also be fully aware of the maneuvering capabilities of the ship, including her stopping distance.

Emergency Procedures

All watch officers must be familiar with emergency procedures including main engine failure, steering failure, gyro failure/compass failure, bridge control/telegraph failure, imminent collision/collision, stranding, fire, flooding, boat/liferaft stations, man overboard, and search and rescue.