Shipboard Procedures Manual

Ch: SBP 05.04 Date: 01.08.09 Revision: 4 Prep: PKC Appr: ML Page 1 of 1

5.4. ECHO SOUNDER

5.4.1. The echo sounder recorder should be switched on prior to entry into shallow water
and in port entrances and prior to departure. It should remain in operation while in
shallow waters (depths less than 50 mtrs).
The date and time of switching on should be marked on the recorder chart. In
addition, the date and time of passing significant land or seamarks should be
marked on the recorder.

Master must verify that echo sounder records are being maintained in the Deck Log
book. This is especially important in cases of vessels fitted with Digital Echo
Sounder with no printer feed for the recording.

5.4.2. Whenever the vessel is within depths of less than two times the draught, soundings
must be taken frequently and logged down.

5.4.3. The Master must encourage the use of the Echo Sounder and frequent practice of
identifying the vessel’s position with the aid of the echo sounder.

Depth alarms if fitted, should be used in accordance with the equipment

manufacturer’s instructions.

5.4.4. A spare set of styluses for the echo sounder recorder must be kept on board.

5.4.5. Sufficient spare printer rolls must be kept on board.

Requisitions for spare paper rolls must be made at least 3 months in advance.

5.4.6. The maintenance of the Echo sounder is the responsibility of the 2nd Officer. The
Radio Officer, Electrical Officer, guided by the Chief Engineer, should assist if
required.

5.4.7. Used echo sounder paper (printouts) must be carefully labelled and retained on
board permanently, as they may be required in case of claims, especially in case of
any navigational incident.