You Are Joining a Ship

Question 1

You are joining a ship for the 1st time as a 3rd officer, what would you expect to see on arrival?
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Answer 1

General condition + damage + deterioration.

Draft marks + trim/list.

Loadline limits.

Gangway or accommodation ladder COSWP chapter 22.

Mooring arrangements + even load between the lines + number of lines + condition of the ropes/wires.

Gangway watchman + credentials required.

Crew PPE for duties.

Report to the master

Familiarisation.

Question 2

You are now onboard, what would you be expect to present to the Master?

Answer 2

I would present the Master with:

Contract of employment
CoC
GoC
ENG1
Passport
Discharge Book
Company specific documentation
STCW certification

Question 3

Seafarers employment agreement, what is contained?

Answer 3

• It is a requirement by the MLC and is a legally binding agreement:
• Job description
• Hours of work and rest
• Wages
• Termination of contract agreements
• Drug and alcohol policy
• Pension benefits
• Grievance and disciplinary procedures
• Length of contract
• Health and Social security
• Repatriation agreement
• Standards for food, water, accommodation and laundry

Question 4

You mentioned safe means of access, tell me more about this?

Answer 4

Gangways:

Ships > 30 metres in length.

Not exceed 30 degrees.

Manufacturer’s name, model, maximum angle.

Stanchions secured and handrails fitted.

Safety net.

Embarkation/disembarkation safe and clear, cargo passing overhead? Slips and Trips?

Adequate lighting at access points and walkways.

Gangway watchman.

Lifebuoy self igniting light + buoyant lifeline.

Damage, cracks, corrosion as per SOLAS chapter 3, maintained in accordance with manufacturers instructions.

No gaps between the ship’s railing and the gangway.

Not be fitted to ships railing unless specifically designed to do so

Accommodation Ladders:

As above

Should not exceed 55 degrees from the horizontal.

Question 5

Explain the familiarisation process?

Answer 5

• Muster number + duties + cabin + lifejacket.
• Ships alarm.
• PPE.
• Safety officer and security officer.
• Safety tour of vessel - means of access +
  escape routes + LSA + FFA + SOPEP
• Ships plans.
• Weathertight and watertight openings.
• Safety management system
• Health, safety, security and environmental policy.
• SOLAS training manual.