Example Master's Standing Order

GENERAL

The primarily responsibility of the OOW at all times is the safe navigation of the ship.

1.     The regulation for preventing Collision at the sea must be complied with all times.

2.     An efficient lookout must be maintained at all times.

3.   The OOW is reminded that the main engine is at his disposal, however timely notice of planned reduction of the engine speed is desirable.

4.     The sound signalling apparatus MUST be used as required.

5.     Any action taken to avoid collision must be made as early as possible, and must be substantial so as to be readily apparent to other vessels. A series of small alteration in speed and/or course must be avoided.

6.     The OOW is not to leave the bridge unless properly relieved by another officer.

TESTING OF NAVIGATIONAL EQUIPMENT

1.     All appropriate equipment MUST be tested to ensure that they are functioning properly.

2.     At all times, only Manual Steering are allow during passages within the port limits.

3.     All test & checks MUST be carried out as per company checklist

4.     The OOW must be familiar with all navigational aids on board, including the equipment capabilities limitations and inherent errors.

RADAR

1.     The OOW MUST use the Radar as required.

2.     They must be switch on and in operational readiness at all times during navigational passages in port limits.

CHARTS

1.     Only approved passage plan issued by the company to be used during all passages within port limits.

2.     The largest scale chart available on board MUST be use.  

3.     Only one chart at a time is to be on the chart table.

4.   Vessel position MUST be plotted when passing reporting point and recorded into the chief officer logbook. Comparison MUST be made using the GPS / Radar (Distance/Bearing) position.

5.     To report to Port Operation control when passing abeam of reporting point and record in chief officer log book.

6.     Echo Sounder MUST be used at all times during passages.

ACTION IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY

When restricted visibility is encountered or expected, the first responsibility of the OOW is to comply with the relevant rules and regulations for preventing collisions at sea, proceedings at a safe speed.

In additions, he MUST:

1.   Inform engineer on watch.

2.   Post a proper look out and helmsman.

3.   Exhibit navigational lights.

4.   Increase the position fixing frequency to at least every 10 mins. & after large (>30⁰) alteration.

5.   Bosun to stand by at forward station.

The OOW MUST know the handling of characteristics of his ship, including its stopping distance and MUST appreciate that other ships may have different handling characteristics.

OTHERS

While at anchor, loading & discharging the officer of the watch MUST follow instructions as per Master Order Book.

Please remember that at anytime when in doubt, inform MASTER.

 

Master                         Date ___________

 

Chief Officer                             Date ___________

 

2^nd Officer                                 Date ___________

 

Chief Engineer             Date ___________