Ingls Comercial I

InglsMODULE 1

SHIP PERSONNEL

SeafarersSeafarers hold a variety of professions and ranks, and each of these roles carries unique responsibilities which are integral to the successful operation of a seafaring vessel. A ship's bridge, filled with sophisticated equipment, requires skills differing from those used on the deck, which houses berthing and cargo gear, which requires skills different from those used in a ship's engine room, and so on.

The following is only a partial listing of professions and ranks. Ship operators have understandably employed a wide variety of positions, given the vast array of technologies, missions, and circumstances that ships have been subjected to over the years. A ship's crew can generally be divided into four main categories: the deck department, the engineering department, the steward's department, and other.

Ship DepartmentsDeck DepartmentEngineering DepartmentSteward's departmentOther

Deck DepartmentThe Deck Department is an organizational unit aboard naval and merchant ships. A Deck Officer is an officer serving in the deck department.

The main work of the deck department is proper watchstanding and the maintenance of the ship's hull, cargo equipment, and accommodations as well as the ship's life saving and firefighting appliances.

A typical deck department for a merchant ship would include:Chief Officer/Chief MateSecond Officer/Second MateThird Officer/Third Mate Boatswain Able SeamenOrdinary Seamen

Engineering DepartmentMarine Engineering on board a ship refers to the operation and maintenance of the propulsion and other systems such as: electrical power generation plant; lighting; air conditioning; refrigeration; and water systems on board the vessel.

Chief EngineerSecond EngineerThird EngineerFourth EngineerEngineering CadetQualified Member of the Engine DepartmentPumpmanOilerWiper

Steward's departmentPurserChief StewardChief CookSteward's Assistant

Captain/MasterCaptain/MasterThe Captain or Master is the ship's highest responsible officer, acting on behalf of the ship's owner. Whether the captain is a member of the deck department or not is a matter of some controversy, and generally depends on the opinion of an individual captain. When a ship has a Third Mate, the Captain does not stand watch.

Masters ResponsibilitiesThe Master is responsible for proper ship safety, exploitation and maintenance. Sufficient number of job / duty description and responsibilities for all persons on board must be issued, when signing on, to ensure that all tasks are taken properly care of, including and not limitative to :Watch keepingMaintenance planning and follow-upEmergency measures and drillsCargo operationsAll tasks relevant to the proper ship exploitation and safe ship operation.

Masters Responsibilities/AuthorityWith regard to quality and safety policies, the Master is the head of the quality and safety committee on board and is responsible for :Implementing the quality and safety policy of the Company on basis of international conventions, codes and national legislationMotivating the crew in the execution of that policyIssuing appropriate orders and instructions to all crew members in a clear and simple mannerReviewing the quality and safety guide-lines and pollution prevention proceduresImplementing regular quality and safety meetings to plan and review all progress regarding quality and safety onboard.Members of the quality and safety committee shall be nominated by the Master but shall at least include heads of the different departments.Report of such meetings must be maintained and a copy issued to the quality and safety section of the CompanyFiling of all check-lists

Masters Responsibilities/AuthorityThe Master shall ensure that all emergency procedures are defined and maintained through planning, training and drills in view to minimize the consequences if accidents / incidents should occur, including anti-pollution and safety measures, in the best interest of crew, ship and marine environment.

He has to ensure that all lifesaving and safety equipments are kept in a proper order according to regulations at all times.

The Master is responsible to report to the Company all defects and other matters which could affect the safe operation of the ship or could present a risk of pollution, and which require the assistance of the Company to ensure that they are rectified and implemented on board of all vessels concerned.

Masters Responsibilities/AuthorityThe Master is responsible for the seaworthiness of the vessel in accordance with rules and regulations issued by :

International / National authoritiesFlag statesPort statesClassification societies

and has full Authority to take the proper decision according to the circumstances.The Master is responsible for the safe navigation at all times, crew relation, catering and welfare, good discipline, evaluation of crew performance training, familiarization and working moraleThe Master is responsible for all necessary reportings and liaisons on board. He represents the Company, the owners as well as the charterers, and is the reporting line to the Company, owners, charterers, and any third party if required.The Master is responsible for accounting of the vessel, provisions, control of purchasing, and if necessary to report any discrepancy.One of his main functions is to keep himself professionally up to date, to provide his experience to the ship's staff in a way to increase experience and professional updating.In his absence, the Chief Officer will take command.

Interrelations (Ship-Shore)The Master is responsible for the feedback line of data from the ship to the company or any third party, as described in further subjects.As a summary we could say that :

The Master is responsible for the seaworthiness, navigation, cargo and maintenance of his vessel, according to all mandatory regulations. He is responsible to identify all defects, to report them to the Company, to the Classification Society, to any third party if relevant, and, if this is not possible, to handle them directly on board. The Master will assist the shore based management with information. A good communication between both parties is, in this matter, vital.

The Master is responsible for all reporting obligations on board such as, but not limited to:Daily annotations in logbookSoundings and report in logbookDaily rounds and report in logbookSafety rounds and report in logbook Sanitary inspections and report in logbookSafety drills, main safety maintenance and report in logbookMain test and routines and report in logbookOperational information and report in logbookThe Master is responsible for the crew administration, duty, working hours and overtime carried out (time-sheet to be countersigned by Chief Engineer or Chief Officer).

Change of MasterThe Master must prepare a record of information in view to familiarize his successor with the vessel. This record must include information such as:

Cargo on board, port of lading, port of dischargeCargo condition, stability condition, schedules, dangerous cargoVoyage planningShip's characteristics, equipment, maintenanceShip's charter-party (if any)Ship's certificatesShip's stores and provisions,Routine messages to be sentCrew evaluationShip's budget and fundsetc.The relieving Master will take over the responsibility that all stocks are correct as accounted.The relieving Master prior taking over should be familiarized with vessel condition, cargo and safety on board.The relieve must be indicated in the deck logbook.

Deck Department

Chief Officer/Chief MateThe Chief Officer (often called the Chief Mate in the United States) is the head of the deck department on a merchant vessel, second-in-command after the ship's Master.

The Chief Mate's primary responsibilities are the vessel's cargo operations, its stability, and supervising the deck crew. The mate is responsible for the safety and security of the ship, as well as the welfare of the crew on board. Additional duties include maintenance of the ship's hull, cargo gears, accommodations, the life saving appliances and the firefighting appliances. The Chief Mate also trains the crew and cadets on various aspects like safety, firefighting, search and rescue, and various other contingencies.

On most vessels, the Chief Officer and First Officer (or First Mate) are synonymous, but passenger vessels often carry a separate First Officer who is junior to the Chief Officer.

Chief Officers ResponsibilitiesWithout passing off Master's responsibilities, the Chief Officer is responsible for the deck department.

This includes but is not limited to :Master's assistant during maneuveringReplace the Master during his absenceCargo operations and all relevant obligations / informationDeck and deck equipment operation and maintenance according to classification societies requirements, flag State requirements, national and international rules and regulationsAdministration of deck crewSafety on deckKeep his watch on the bridge (usually from 04.00 to 08.00 hours and from 16.00 to 20.00 hours)

Change of Chief OfficerInformation such as:Maintenance ProgramCargo, ship's condition and characteristicsStabilityDeck crew evaluationAdministration, stock, budgetetc.Must at least be included in the relieve procedure and report.

Responsibility of Crew MembersResponsibilities and tasks of all crew members signing on shall be clearly defined and explained on arrival on board.

This includes but is not limitative to:Daily duty and responsibilitiesDuty and responsibilities in any case of emergency

An updated plan for any case of emergency must be at all time available, clear and understandable for all crew members.A copy of this plan shall be included in the Contingency plan and shall be considered mandatory for everybody.

Second Officer/Second MateThe Second Officer (or Second Mate) of a merchant vessel is usually in charge of navigation and is the next licensed position above Third Officer and below Chief Officer. The second mate typically stands the 12-4 navigation watch. That is, the Second Mate will stand watch from 1200 to 1600 at noon and again from 0000 to 0400 in the nights.

The Second Mate is typically the navigation officer aboard a ship. The navigation officer is responsible for maintaining the charts and navigational equipment on the bridge. The duties also usually entail developing the voyage plans under the direction of the ship's Master. In the United States system, it takes 360 days of sea service as a licensed Third Officer before one can become a Second Officer.

The other duties of this position often depend upon the type of ship worked aboard. On oil tankers, the second officer usually provides the Chief Mate with assistance in tank cleaning.

Responsibility of Second OfficerUsually the second officer is responsible for the navigation of the ship.

This includes but is not limited to :Check the proper working of all bridge instruments before departureSelect all nautical charts necessary for the crossingDraw courses on charts in consultation with the MasterCheck if all mandatory (and not mandatory) literature (Lists of Lights, Admiralty Lists of Radio Signals, Pilot Books, Notices to Mariners, etc) is on boardKeep all charts and books well corrected and up to dateKeep his watch on the bridge (usually from 00.00 to 04.00 hours and from 12.00 to 16.00 hours

Third Officer/Third MateThe Third Officer or Third Mate is the third officer of a merchant vessel. The most junior officer of the ship, the Third Mate is usually the safety officer (responsible for firefighting equipment, lifeboats, emergency systems) and is in charge of a (bridge or cargo) watch. Not all vessels have a Third Mate; in this case his duties will be performed by the Second Mate.

Responsibility of Third OfficerUsually the third officer is responsible for the safety equipment of the ship.This includes but is not limited to :Check if all fire fighting equipment is present and properly functioningCheck if all life-saving equipment (life-boats, life-rafts, their inventory) is present and in orderCheck if all pyrotechnics are present and not outdatedCheck if all signaling flags are presentCheck if all emergency panels on the bridge (fire alert, watertight doors, etc.) are properly functioningKeep his watch on the bridge (usually from 08.00 to 12.00 hours and from 20.00 to 24.00 hours

Deck CadetA Deck Cadet (or Apprentice) is a nautical school graduate, entitled to a seaman's book, but is not an officer-proper. The cadet must first carry out a one-year training on board ships, executing tasks of an officer-of-the-watch under the supervision of senior officers. He comes under chief mate and works accordingly.

BoatswainA Boatswain, often (at least since 1868) phonetically spelled and pronounced bosun, is in charge of the unlicensed deck crew and is sometimes also third or fourth mate.

The boatswain supervises the other unlicensed members of the ship's deck department, and typically is not a watchstander, except on vessels with small crews. Other duties vary depending on the type of ship, her crewing, and other factors.

CarpenterShip's carpenters, though once ubiquitous, are now rare. They are, however, frequently found aboard passenger liners. Ship's carpenters are sometimes referred to by the nickname, "Chips."

Able SeamanIn the modern merchant marine, an able seaman (AB) is a member of the deck department and must possess a merchant mariner's document. An AB will work in a ship's deck department as either a watchstander, a day worker, or a combination of these roles.

At sea an AB watchstander's duties include standing watch as helmsman and lookout. A helmsman is required to maintain a steady course, properly execute all rudder orders and communicate utilizing navigational terms relating to heading and steering. While the ship is not underway, a watchstander may be called upon to stand security-related watches, such as a gangway watch or anchor watch.

Ordinary SeamanIn the United States Merchant Marine, an Ordinary Seaman or OS is an entry-level position in a ship's deck department. An OS performs a variety of duties concerned with the operation and upkeep of deck department areas and equipment.

Upkeep duties include scaling, buffing, and painting decks and superstructure; as well as sweeping and washing the deck. An OS may splice wire and rope; break out, rig, overhaul, and stow cargo-handling gear, stationary rigging, and running gear.

Additionally, the OS secures cargo, as well as launches and recovers boats. The OS may rig and operate hydrographic and other specialty winches; handle and stow oceanographic explosives; and stage and stow beach support equipment.

Change of Officers and CrewPersonnel new to the ship must be familiarized with their scope of work; muster rolls and safety and lifesaving equipment.

Fire drills and lifeboat drills to be carried out soonest possible after major crew changes.

All crew changes must be indicated in the deck logbook.

Engineering Department

Chief EngineerThe Chief Engineer on a merchant vessel is the official title of someone qualified to oversee the engine department. The qualification for this position is colloquially called a "Chief's Ticket".

The Chief Engineer commonly referred to as "The Chief" or just "Chief" is responsible for all operations and maintenance that have to do with all engineering equipment throughout the ship.

Chief Engineers ResponsibilitiesWithout passing off Master's responsibilities, the Chief Engineer is responsible for the engine department.

This includes but is not limited to:Technical advices to the MasterOperation and Maintenance of all machinery according to classification societies requirements, flag state requirements, national and international rules and regulationsAdministration of engine crewSafety in the engine room.

Change of Chief engineerInformation such as:Maintenance ProgramEngine and machinery condition and reportAdministration, stock, budgetTechnical equipment and characteristicsEngine crew evaluationetc.

Second Engineer/First Assistant EngineerThe Second Engineer or First Assistant Engineer is the officer responsible for supervising the daily maintenance and operation of the engine department. He or she reports directly to the Chief Engineer.On a merchant vessel, depending on term usage, "The First" or "The Second" is the marine engineer second in command of the engine department after the ship's Chief Engineer. The person holding this position is typically the busiest engineer aboard the ship, due to the supervisory role this engineer plays and the operations duties performed.

Operational duties include responsibility for the refrigeration systems, main engines (steam/gas turbine, diesel), and any other equipment not assigned to the Second Assistant Engineer/Third Engineer or the Third Assistant Engineer/Fourth Engineer(s). If the engine room requires round the clock attendance and other junior engineers can cover the three watch rotations, this officer is usually a "day worker" from 0630-1830.

Third Engineer/Second Assistant EngineerThe Third Engineer or Second Assistant Engineer is junior to the Second Engineer/First Assistant Engineer in the engine department and is usually in charge of boilers, fuel, auxiliary engines, condensate, and feed systems. This engineer is the third highest marine engineer in rank. Depending on usage, "The Second" or "The Third" is also typically in charge of fueling or bunkering, if the officer holds a valid Person In Charge (PIC) endorsement for fuel transfer operations.

The exact duties of this position will often depend upon the type of ship and arrangement of the engine department. On ships with steam propulsion plants The Second/Third is in charge of the boilers, combustion control, soot blowers, condensate and feed equipment, feed pumps, fuel, and condensers. On diesel and gas turbine propulsion plants, this engineer is in charge of auxiliary boilers, auxiliary engines, incinerator, air compressors, fuel, and fuel oil purifiers.

Fourth Engineer/Third Assistant EngineerThe Fourth Engineer or Third Assistant Engineer is junior to the Second Assistant Engineer/ Third Engineer in the engine department.

The most junior marine engineer of the ship, he or she is usually responsible for electrical, sewage treatment, lube oil, bilge, and oily water separation systems. Depending on usage, this person is called "The Third" or "The Fourth" and usually stands a watch.

Moreover, the Fourth Engineer may assist the third mate in maintaining proper operation of the lifeboats.

Engineering CadetAn Engineering Cadet (or Apprentice) is a nautical school graduate, entitled to a seaman's book, but is not an officer-proper. The cadet must first carry out a one-year training on board ships, executing tasks of an officer-of-the-watch under the supervision of senior officers.

In the US fleet, a Cadet is a student completing an internship-like program aboard ships. They assist the licensed engineers in their duties in addition to completing a "sea project," a report which helps determine the grade they receive for their time aboard ship.

Qualified Member of the Engine DepartmentA Qualified Member of the Engineering Department also known as an Unlicensed Junior Engineer or QMED is a senior unlicensed crewmember in the engine room of a ship. The QMED performs a variety of tasks connected with the maintenance and repair of engine room, fireroom, machine shop, ice-machine room, and steering-engine room equipment.

The QMED inspects equipment such as pumps, turbines, distilling plants, and condensers, and prepares record of condition. The QMED lubricates and maintains machinery and equipment such as generators, steering systems, lifeboats, and sewage disposal systems, and also cleans and restores tools and equipment. member in the engine room of a ship.

PumpmanA pumpman is an unlicensed member of the engineering department of a merchant ship. Pumpmen are found almost exclusively on tankers, and on oil tankers in particular. Variations on the title can include chief pumpman, QMED/pumpman, and second pumpman. frequently found aboard fuel tankers.

OilerAn Oiler is one of the most junior crew members in the engine room of a ship (senior only to a Wiper). An Oiler's role consists mainly of keeping machinery lubricated.

WiperA Wiper is the most junior crew member in the engine room of a ship. Their role consists of wiping down machinery and generally keeping it clean.

Steward's departmentMost merchant ship do not have this department - they only have a Cook and he is part of the Deck Department.

PurserThe purser the person on a ship responsible for the handling of money on board. On modern merchant ships the purser is the officer responsible for all administration and supply; frequently the cooks and stewards answer to him/her as well.

Chief StewardThe Chief Steward is the senior unlicensed crew member working in the steward's department of a ship.

The chief steward directs, instructs, and assigns personnel performing such functions as preparing and serving meals; cleaning and maintaining officers' quarters and steward department areas; and receiving, issuing, and inventorying stores. The chief steward also plans menus; compiles supply, overtime, and cost control records.

The Steward may requisition or purchase stores and equipment. Additional duties may include baking bread, rolls, cakes, pies, and pastries. A Chief Steward's duties may overlap with those of the Steward's Assistant, the Chief Cook, and other Steward's Department crew members.

Most United States Merchant Marine vessels do not carry a purser.

Chief CookThe Chief Cook is a senior unlicensed crew member working in the Steward's department of a ship.

The Chief Cook directs and participates in the preparation and serving of meals; determines timing and sequence of operations required to meet serving times; inspects galley and equipment for cleanliness and proper storage and preparation of food.

The cook may plan or assist in planning meals and taking inventory of stores and equipment. A chief cook's duties may overlap with those of the Steward's Assistant, the Chief Steward, and other Steward's Department crew members.

Chief cooks are sometimes referred to by the nickname, Cookie.

Steward's AssistantA Steward's Assistant or SA is an entry-level crew member in the Steward's department of a ship. This position can also be referred to as Galley Utilityman or Messman. The role of the SA consists mainly of cleaning and assisting with the preparation and serving of meals.

Senior PersonnelDeck departmentEngine departmentSteward's departmentCaptainLicensedChief Mate Licensed1st AssistantLicensedPurserLicensedChief Engineer Licensed2nd Mate Licensed2nd AssistantLicensedChief StewardUnlicensed

Maritime pilotLicensed3rd MateLicensed3rd AssistantLicensedChief CookUnlicensed

Boatswain UnlicensedQMED UnlicensedSteward's AssistantUnlicensed

Carpenter UnlicensedElectrician UnlicensedAble SeamanUnlicensedOiler UnlicensedOrdinary SeamanUnlicensedWiper and pumpmanUnlicensed