A. Watch keeping procedures and arrangements:

The deck cadet must develop a practical understanding of watchkeeping procedures by visiting and familiarizing themselves with essential work areas onboard. This includes the bridge, lookout post, forecastle, poop deck, main deck, and other operational areas where navigational and deck duties take place.

By completing this task, the cadet will be able to:

1. Identify and understand the purpose of key watchkeeping locations onboard.

2. Observe and document key activities in each area.

3. Understand the responsibilities of watchkeepers in different locations.

4. Develop situational awareness and safety precautions for working in these areas.

5. Follow correct communication and reporting procedures while on watch. 

📌 Key Responsibilities of the Bridge Watchkeeper:
✅ Monitoring the vessel’s position and ensuring a safe navigational watch.
✅ Using radar, ECDIS, and other navigational equipment.
✅ Maintaining a lookout for hazards, other vessels, and changes in weather.
✅ Communicating with the engine room and deck teams when required.
✅ Recording information in the bridge logbook.

🔹 Activity:

• Visit the bridge during a watch and observe the duties of the OOW (Officer of the Watch).

• Identify and note the main bridge equipment used for navigation.

• Write a summary of bridge watchkeeping duties and key observations.

📌 Purpose of the Lookout:
✅ Detecting approaching ships, obstacles, or hazards.
✅ Observing weather conditions and changes in visibility.
✅ Reporting any light, sound signals, or suspicious activity.

🔹 Activity:

• Stand at the designated lookout post and observe how a proper lookout is maintained.

• Practice reporting objects and vessels using proper bearing and distance terminology.

• Document a short log entry of objects sighted during the lookout period.

📌 Purpose of the Forecastle:
✅ Houses the anchor and mooring equipment.
✅ Used for anchor handling, mooring operations, and forward lookout duties.
✅ Requires strict safety measures due to heavy machinery and rough weather exposure.

🔹 Activity:

• Identify the anchor windlass, mooring ropes, and bollards.

• Observe and document an anchor operation or mooring procedure.

Write a risk assessment report for working in the forecastle. 

📌 Purpose of the Poop Deck:
✅ Used for mooring operations at the stern.
✅ Houses stern lines, winches, and emergency towing arrangements.
✅ Can be a secondary emergency station in some ships.

🔹 Activity:

• Observe a mooring operation at the stern and note the procedures followed.

• Identify winches, fairleads, and mooring bollards.

Write a brief safety guideline for working on the poop deck. 

📌 Purpose of the Main Deck:
✅ Serves as the main working area for cargo, maintenance, and operations.
✅ Includes access points to holds, tanks, and safety equipment.
✅ Requires constant monitoring for safety hazards.

🔹 Activity:

• Walk through the main deck and identify key equipment and safety hazards.

• Observe and document ongoing maintenance or cargo operations.

• Write a list of personal protective equipment (PPE) required for working on deck.

📌 Key Safety Precautions:
✅ Always wear PPE (helmet, gloves, boots, and safety harness where required).
✅ Follow safe working procedures and avoid restricted areas without permission.
✅ Maintain clear communication with the bridge and duty officers.
✅ Know the location of emergency exits and fire-fighting equipment.

🔹 Activity:

• Identify safety signs and emergency equipment in each work area.

• Practice using hand signals or radio communication for reporting hazards.

• Write a short report on safety risks and recommended precautions in the visited areas.

Evidence to Be Submitted by Cadet:

✅ Summary of bridge watchkeeping duties and observations.
✅ Log entry for objects sighted at the lookout post.
✅ Report on anchor operations in the forecastle.
✅ Safety guideline for working on the poop deck.
✅ List of safety hazards and PPE requirements on the main deck.
✅ Short report on communication procedures and emergency precautions.
✅ Officer’s evaluation and feedback.

Officer’s Verification & Remarks:

🔹 The officer will assess the cadet’s ability to:

• Identify and describe the functions of key watchkeeping locations.

• Observe and document operational procedures in each area.

• Demonstrate awareness of safety hazards and best practices.

• Follow proper reporting and communication procedures.

Completion Criteria:

✅ Cadet successfully visits and documents observations from all key areas.
✅ Demonstrates understanding of watchkeeping duties and responsibilities.
✅ Follows proper safety and communication procedures.
✅ Receives officer approval and feedback.

Reference Learning Materials:

📌 IMO Watchkeeping Guide (STCW A-VIII/2 – Watchkeeping Duties)
📌 SOLAS Chapter V – Safety of Navigation
📌 Company’s Safety Management System (SMS) Procedures
📌 Ship’s Standing Orders & Watchkeeping Guidelines

Familiarizing with key shipboard areas is essential for a deck cadet’s competency in watchkeeping. Understanding how each work area functions, the associated responsibilities, and safety precautions will prepare cadets for effective duty execution and emergency readiness onboard.

The deck cadet must develop a comprehensive understanding of the operation and purpose of steering controls, communication devices (telephones, telegraphs), and key bridge equipment and displays. This knowledge is essential for effective watchkeeping, navigation, and emergency response during bridge operations. 

By completing this task, the cadet will be able to:

1. Identify and explain the functions of steering controls and modes.

2. Demonstrate proper use of bridge communication systems, including telephones and telegraphs.

3. Understand the purpose and operation of essential bridge navigation equipment and displays.

4. Follow proper procedures for switching between different steering modes and communication systems.

5. Participate in a supervised practical session operating these systems under officer guidance.

• Steering gear controls allow the ship to change course and maintain heading.

• Different Steering Modes:
  ⚓ Hand (Manual) Steering – The ship is controlled by a helmsman using a wheel or tiller.
  ⚓ Autopilot (Automatic Steering) – The system automatically follows a preset course.
  ⚓ Non-Follow-Up Mode (NFU) – Direct manual override using a joystick or lever.
  ⚓ Follow-Up Mode (FU) – Small adjustments can be made using a steering wheel or control knob.
  ⚓ Emergency Steering – Used if the main steering system fails; usually located in the steering gear room.

• Activity:

  • Locate and identify the different steering controls on the bridge.

  • Observe and record the steps for switching between steering modes.

  • Practice hand-steering under officer supervision and maintain a given heading.

  • Write a brief summary of each steering mode and its use.

📌 Bridge-to-Engine Room Telegraph (ERT - Engine Order Telegraph):
✅ Used to transmit engine speed and direction orders from the bridge to the engine room.
✅ Operates with preset commands such as "Stop," "Slow Ahead," "Full Astern."

📌 Internal Bridge Telephones & PA Systems:
✅ Used for communication between different ship compartments (Bridge to Engine Room, Bridge to Steering Gear Room, etc.).
✅ Includes sound-powered telephones for emergency situations.

📌 VHF Radio & UHF Handheld Radios:
✅ Used for external communication with other ships, VTS, and port authorities.
✅ Requires proper use of radio channels and marine communication protocol.

• Activity:

  • Identify and explain the function of the Engine Order Telegraph (EOT).

  • Practice using the internal telephone system to call another department onboard.

  • Simulate a basic engine order transmission using the telegraph under officer supervision.

  • Write a list of common EOT commands and their meanings.

• The bridge is equipped with multiple systems for navigation, control, and safety.

• Key bridge equipment includes:

📌 Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging):
✅ Detects vessels, landmasses, and weather systems.
✅ Helps in collision avoidance and navigation.

📌 ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display & Information System):
✅ Replaces paper charts for electronic navigation.
✅ Displays the ship’s real-time position and route planning data.

📌 Gyrocompass & Magnetic Compass:
✅ Gyrocompass provides true north heading, independent of magnetic influences.
✅ Magnetic compass provides direction relative to Earth’s magnetic field.

📌 Auto Pilot & Heading Control System:
✅ Maintains the vessel on a predefined course automatically.
✅ Can be adjusted to follow waypoints or a specific heading.

📌 Rudder Angle Indicator:
✅ Displays the angle of the rudder when steering manually.

📌 Speed Log:
✅ Measures the ship’s speed through water or over ground.

📌 Echo Sounder:
✅ Measures the depth of water beneath the vessel.

📌 Bridge Alarm Systems (BNWAS - Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System):
✅ Ensures the officer on watch is alert and responsive.
✅ Sounds an alarm if there is no activity from the OOW for a set period.

• Activity:

  • Identify and locate each piece of equipment on the bridge.

  • Observe and document the function of each display and control system.

  • Write a short explanation on the importance of using ECDIS, Radar, and the Gyrocompass in navigation.

📌 Under the guidance of an officer, the cadet must:
✅ Operate the steering controls in manual mode and maintain a steady course.
✅ Switch between different steering modes and observe system responses.
✅ Send a mock engine order using the EOT and verify its reception in the engine room.
✅ Perform a bridge-to-engine room telephone call for situational reporting.
✅ Observe how to interpret radar and ECDIS data for safe navigation.

• Activity:

  • Perform a hands-on session on the bridge with an officer supervising.

  • Write a summary of practical observations and lessons learned.

Evidence to Be Submitted by Cadet:

✅ Summary report on steering control systems and their functions.
✅ Engine Order Telegraph (EOT) command list and explanation.
✅ Bridge equipment identification checklist.
✅ Short report on communication procedures using telephones and radio.
✅ Supervised practical demonstration log (signed by the officer).
✅ Officer’s evaluation and feedback.

Officer’s Verification & Remarks:

🔹 The officer will assess the cadet’s ability to:

• Identify and operate steering controls correctly.

• Demonstrate proper use of bridge telephones and the EOT.

• Understand and explain the purpose of key navigation equipment.

• Participate in a practical hands-on session with bridge equipment.

Completion Criteria:

✅ Cadet successfully demonstrates knowledge of bridge equipment and controls.
✅ Correctly operates steering modes and communication systems.
✅ Participates in practical hands-on training.
✅ Submits all required documentation and receives officer approval.

Reference Learning Materials:

📌 STCW A-VIII/2 – Watchkeeping Duties
📌 SOLAS Chapter V – Safety of Navigation
📌 IMO Bridge Procedures Guide
📌 Company’s Bridge Standing Orders & Operational Guidelines

The deck cadet must develop a practical understanding of activating and using shipboard equipment safely for routine duties. This includes following operational procedures, checking for proper function, and adhering to safety guidelines while operating navigational, deck, and safety equipment under supervision.

By completing this task, the cadet will be able to:

1. Identify and understand the purpose of essential shipboard equipment.

2. Follow correct activation and shutdown procedures.

3. Demonstrate safe handling and operation of equipment under officer supervision.

4. Recognize potential hazards and take necessary precautions.

5. Document the activation process and report any malfunctions or irregularities.

📌 Navigational Equipment:
✅ Radar – Used for collision avoidance and situational awareness.
✅ ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) – Provides electronic navigation charts.
✅ Gyrocompass – Provides true heading direction.
✅ Echo Sounder – Measures water depth beneath the vessel.

📌 Deck Equipment:
✅ Windlass – Used for anchor handling.
✅ Mooring Winches – Used for securing the vessel at port.
✅ Cranes & Derricks – Used for cargo operations.

📌 Safety Equipment:
✅ Fire Pumps – Used for firefighting.
✅ Emergency Generator – Provides backup power in case of main power failure.
✅ Lifeboat & Rescue Boat Davits – Used for launching life-saving craft.

• Activity:

  • Identify and locate each piece of equipment onboard.

  • Write a brief description of the function and purpose of at least five different types of equipment.

• Before activating any equipment, the cadet must:
  ✅ Ensure the power source is available (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic).
  ✅ Check for visible damage or leaks.
  ✅ Verify safety guards and emergency stop functions.
  ✅ Inform the duty officer before operation.

• Activity:

  • Conduct a pre-operation inspection of an assigned piece of equipment.

  • Use a checklist to confirm its readiness for activation.

  • Report any faults or irregularities to the officer.

• Follow standard activation procedures:
  ✅ Receive permission from the duty officer before starting.
  ✅ Follow the step-by-step operating manual or ship’s procedures.
  ✅ Observe safety measures such as wearing PPE and standing clear of moving parts.
  ✅ Communicate with the relevant personnel before and after activation.

• Activity:

  • Under officer supervision, activate and operate an assigned piece of equipment (e.g., starting the radar, engaging a mooring winch, testing fire pumps).

  • Record step-by-step activation procedures and any observations.

  • Demonstrate safe handling and emergency stop procedures.

• After use, equipment must be shut down correctly to prevent damage or malfunction.

• Shutdown Procedures:
  ✅ Reduce power/load gradually before stopping.
  ✅ Switch to standby mode if required.
  ✅ Conduct post-operation checks to confirm proper shutdown.
  ✅ Log any issues or unusual behavior in the equipment report.

• Activity:

  • Perform a supervised shutdown of an assigned piece of equipment.

Fill out an equipment usage log, detailing activation and shutdown observations. 

• Potential hazards during equipment operation:
  ⚠ Moving parts causing entanglement.
  ⚠ High-pressure systems leading to leaks or explosions.
  ⚠ Electrical faults causing shocks or short circuits.
  ⚠ Noise hazards requiring ear protection.

• Emergency Response:
  ✅ Know the location of the emergency stop button.
  ✅ Report any malfunction immediately.
  ✅ Follow lockout/tagout procedures if needed.
  ✅ Use radio or telephone communication to alert crew members if an issue arises.

• Activity:

  • Identify at least three safety risks associated with equipment use.

  • Demonstrate the use of an emergency stop mechanism under officer supervision.

Evidence to Be Submitted by Cadet:

✅ Equipment identification report with descriptions.
✅ Pre-operation inspection checklist.
✅ Step-by-step activation procedure log.
✅ Shutdown procedure log.
✅ Safety hazard analysis report.
✅ Supervised activation and operation session log (signed by the officer).
✅ Officer’s evaluation and feedback.

Officer’s Verification & Remarks:

🔹 The officer will assess the cadet’s ability to:

• Correctly identify and describe key equipment.

• Conduct a proper pre-operation inspection.

• Safely activate, operate, and shut down assigned equipment.

• Follow safety precautions and emergency procedures.

• Report any issues or observations accurately.

Completion Criteria:

✅ Cadet successfully demonstrates activation of routine equipment.
✅ Follows correct operating procedures and safety measures.
✅ Participates in practical supervised training.
✅ Submits all required documentation and receives officer approval.

Reference Learning Materials:

📌 SOLAS Chapter II-1 – Shipboard Equipment & Maintenance
📌 STCW A-VIII/2 – Watchkeeping Duties & Responsibilities
📌 IMO Guidelines for Safe Equipment Operation
📌 Company’s Equipment Operation Manuals & Procedures