MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch Flashcards
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
General Section
Key words:
OOW is the Master’s representative responsible at all times for safe navigation
Complying with COLREGS
Efficient look-out is maintained
OOW should know the handling characteristics of the vessel
Aware of the serious effects of operational or accidental pollution of the marine environment dangerous
Irresponsible for the OOW to act as sole look-out during periods of darkness
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Fitness for Duty
Key words:
minimum of 10 hours rest in any 24 hour period
77 hours in any seven day period
divided into no more than two periods
one of which should be at least six hours long intervals in between should not exceed 14 hours
Watchkeepers should ensure they remain alert by moving around frequently and ensuring good ventilation.
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Performing the Navigational Watch
Key Words:
keep the watch on the bridge
responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel despite the presence of the Master
notify the Master when in any doubt
responsible for the safe navigation when pilot on board. if in any doubt as to the pilot’s actions – ask or call Master if in doubt
ensure there are no distractions
qualified helmsman available and hand steering in restricted vis, high traffic density. Make sure hand steering is engaged in plenty of time.
Maintain the log book
Use the radar especially in heavy traffic and restricted vis. Plot the position frequently and check by more than one method.
Get the latest navigation and weather information and make sure all equipment is operating OK.
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Watch Arrangements
Key Words:
Bridge is always manned by a qualified officer.
The people on the bridge must be fully rested.
The number of people depends on what the weather and visibility.
How busy the watch will be – if there are radio communications, what nav equipment will be used and its operational status. Is there a UMS panel on the bridge.
Any special events happening during the watch
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Handing Over the Watch
Key Words:
Ensure reliving officer is fit to carry out a watch and their eyes are adjusted to the light conditions.
Ensure all standing orders and Masters standing orders are understood .
Call the Master if the relieving officer is not fit for duty and don’t hand over.
Don’t hand over during a manoeuvre
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Taking Over the Watch
Key Words:
Verified the ships position, track, course and speed.
Noted any dangers which may occur during the watch,
Know expected weather, tides, currents, visibility
Note gyro and compass errors and the status of all nav equipment.
Note the settings of the engines and if the engine room is manned.
Know what the traffic movements in the area.
Brief the lookout as to what’s expected during the watch.
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Lookout
Key Words:
The lookout is just to be a lookout. A separate helmsman should be on standby if required. Except on small ships with an unobstructed all round view.
Sole lookout may be used in daylight taking into account:
Weather, visibility, traffic, how close any dangers are.
Design of the bridge and layout. Any blind spots.
Radar equipment fitted and operational
The sole lookout should have minimal distractions from GMDSS/Communications/Record Keeping/Routine upkeep of bridge equipment.
Any visit to a separate chartroom should be as brief as possible.
The OOW should engage the lookout and keep them informed as they are an important part of the bridge team.
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Restricted Visibility
Key Words:
Comply with Colregs/Safe Speed/Fog Signals/ Engines Standby
Do the following: Call Master/Lookout/Nav Lights on/Use radar/Engines standby
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Safe Speed and Stopping Distance
Key Words:
Use the engines to give more ‘thinking time’.
Give notice to ER and be aware of when ship is on UMS.
Proceed at safe speed at all times.
MGN 315: Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch
Vessel at Anchor
Key Words:
Plot the position as soon as possible by bearings of fixed nav marks or transits.
Keep a lookout and do regular rounds of vessel don’t rely on guard-zones.
Know how soon the engines can be made ready. Show the correct lights and shapes.
Ensure you comply with Masters standing orders.
