When handing over the watch the Watchkeeping Officer must first ensure that the Relieving Officer is fit for duty. If there is reason to believe that the latter is not capable of carrying out the watchkeeping duties effectively, the master shall be notified. It is vital that all relevant information is exchanged between the Watchkeeping Officer and the Relieving Officer.
When changing over the watch, relieving officers should personally satisfy themselves regarding the following:
- Standing orders and other special instructions of the master relating to navigation of the ship.
- Position, course, speed and draught of the ship.
- Prevailing and predicted tides, currents, weather and visibility and the effect of these factors upon course and speed.
- Procedures for the use of main engines to manoeuvre when the main engines are on bridge control, and the status of the watchkeeping arrangements in the engine room.
- The ship security status.
- Sufficient time has been allowed for night vision to be established and that such vision is maintained.
- Navigational situation, including but not limited to:
- The operational condition of all navigational and safety equipment being used or likely to be used during the watch.
- The errors of the Gyro and Magnetic compasses.
- The presence and movements of ships in sight or known to be in the vicinity.
- The conditions and hazards likely to be encountered during the watch.
- The possible effects of heel, trim, water density and squat on underkeel clearance.
The International Chamber of Shipping Bridge Procedures Guide (BPG) provides guidance for handing over the watch and assists by providing Checklist B12 ‘Changing over the watch’. Use should be made of this checklist or if provided your companies vessel specific checklist included with the vessels SMS. It must always be remembered that checklists are not definitive and you should exchange any relevant information that will be of use to the relieving Officer.
Download BPG Changing Over The Watch Checklist
