Duties of the OOW Officer of the Watch

Duties of the OOW (Officer of the Watch) at sea.

Once the pilot has been disembarked,

the Sea Passage begins.

The bridge team will be reduced to a minimum and the OOW takes the conn.

The OOW keeps a sharp look-out and uses electronic aids to navigation,

like RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging),

ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System)

or an ECDIS with a RADAR overlay

and AIS (Automatic Identification System).

Binoculars are a vital instrument for keeping a sharp look-out.

During the watch the OOW should accurately monitor shipping traffic,

especially in traffic congested waters,

in order to avoid close quarters

and collisions.

With an ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) or a manual Radar plot, one can estimate the CPA (Closest Point of Approach).

An alteration of course

or a reduction of speed

will resolve into the necessary safe passing distance.

Other important matters to be monitored include : a deterioration of the visibility

or weather and sea conditions,

the presence of sea ice,

ships or people at sea in distress,

working conditions on deck

and unsafe working practices,

as well as course stability

and proper functioning of the auto-pilot.

Good watchkeeping practice includes : monitoring weather

and safety information,

taking bearings

and sights,

reading out instruments,

plotting the ship’s position on the chart,

ascertaining the ship’s position, time and distance to go,

making entries in the ship’s log book at regular intervals,

maintaining a continuous radio-watch and reporting to shore stations where and when necessary,

keeping the ship’s safety management system up-todate,

informing the master, if required,

effectively cooperating with other members of the watch and

handing over the watch, providing full details to the relieving officer.

Thank you for your attention. Have a good watch !