There are numerous situations in which it may be necessary to contact the Chief Engineer and you will find many lists online which detail specific scenarios or examples. Many would argue however that, depending on the manning of your vessel, it is more likely that you will raise most concerns with the Second Engineer. Especially situations which are not life threatening, this however is all about determining what situations are normal and potentially routine and which are more serious. In any case if you are not sure get help as over confidence has the potential to be far worse than under confidence.
To clarify in terms of official guidance the STCW Code gives the following reasons for contacting the Chief Engineer, it states:
The officer in charge of the engineering watch shall notify the Chief Engineer officer without delay:
- When engine damage or a malfunction occurs which may be such as to endanger the safe operation of the ship;
- When any malfunction occurs which, it is believed may cause damage or breakdown of propulsion machinery, auxiliary machinery or monitoring and governing systems; and
- In any emergency or if in any doubt as to what decision or measures to take.
It goes on to add:
Despite the requirement to notify the Chief Engineer officer in the following circumstances, the officer in charge of the engineering watch shall not hesitate to take immediate action for the safety of the ship, its machinery and crew where circumstances require.
As you can see the code isn’t specific as being guidance it couldn’t possible cover all of the scenarios; and as mentioned the situations in which contact with the Chief/ Second Engineer is made will vary depending on the experience of the Engineer.
It should be noted that the Standing Orders relating specifically to when the Chief Engineer wishes to be contacted should also be followed as these will vary.
In addition it is also, from my experience, essential, if not just good manners, to inform the Chief Engineer of when ‘Testing Gear’ is complete.
