Presented by Aldrich abunyi

Watchkeeping Deck
Responsibilities in
Port

How to Perform the watch in Port

 The composition and duration of the

Introduction
deck watch are left to the master's
discretion, dependent on mooring
conditions, ship type, and the nature
On any ship safely moored or at anchor in of duties, underscoring the
port, ensuring a vigilant watch is a significance of effective watchkeeping
paramount duty. The master must arrange in port for overall safety and
for an appropriate watch, considering operational excellence.
specific requirements for various ship
types, propulsion systems, ancillary
equipment, and the presence of
hazardous cargoes.
Watch arrangements are integral to
safeguarding life, the vessel, the port, and
the environment while ensuring the safe
operation of all cargo-related machinery.
Compliance with international, national,
and local regulations is imperative, as is
the preservation of the ship's routine.
 1. Watch Arrangements:

Arrangements for keeping a deck watch when the

ship is in port must at all times be adequate to:
(a) ensure the safety of life, of the ship, the port and
the environment, and the safe operation of all
machinery related to cargo operation;
(b) observe international, national and local rules; and
(c) maintain order and the normal routine of the ship.

The master decide the duration and composition of the

watch depending on the conditions, factors, and the
vessel characteristics. The necessary equipment should
be arranged to provide for efficient watchkeeping.
 2. Taking over the deck watch:
A seamless transition between watchkeepers is crucial for the
uninterrupted operation of the vessel. This meticulous handover
process ensures the continuity of safe and efficient watchkeeping and
vessel operations while emphasizing the importance of competence,
situational awareness, and adherence to regulations in maritime duties.
The officer in charge of the deck watch must not hand over the watch to their
relieving officer if they have any doubts about their capability, and any such

2.
concerns must be communicated to the master. The relieving officers must verify
several key aspects before assuming charge of the deck watch, including the
adequacy of mooring and anchor chain securing, the proper exhibition of signals 01.
Taking
and lights, compliance with safety and fire protection regulations, awareness of
hazardous cargo procedures, and an evaluation of external conditions that may
imperil the ship or others.

The relieving officer must also be informed about various vital parameters by over
the
the officer in charge of the deck watch, such as water depth, the ship's
draught, tidal levels, mooring arrangements, and the state of main engines.
Additionally, the relieving officer must consider the nature, amount, and 02.
deck
disposition of cargo, the level of water in bilges and ballast tanks, signals and
lights being displayed, crew requirements, firefighting appliance readiness.

The relieving officer must know the port regulations, the master's watch:
orders, communication lines with shore personnel, and circumstances
related to the safety of the ship, its crew, cargo, and environmental
protection against pollution.
03.
 3. Performing the deck watch:
When performing the deck watch, the officer in charge must adhere to several key responsibilities.
This includes:

making regular rounds to inspect the ship at appropriate intervals. They should pay particular
attention to various critical aspects, such as the condition and securing of the gangway, anchor
chain, and moorings, especially during tide changes or in berths with significant tidal variations.
Monitoring the ship's draught, under keel clearance, and overall condition is vital to prevent
dangerous listing or trim, particularly during cargo handling or ballasting.
Additionally, attention should be given to weather and sea conditions, compliance with safety and
fire protection regulations, water levels in bilges and tanks, the presence and location of all
persons on board, exhibition and sounding of lights and signals, as well as environmental
protection.

The officer should also be aware of the ship's stability condition, allowing them to advise
shore fire-fighting authorities regarding the safe quantity of water that can be pumped on
board in case of a fire. Offering assistance to ships or individuals in distress, taking
precautions when turning propellers, and diligently recording significant events in the
appropriate log book are all integral to ensuring the safety and operational integrity of the
vessel.
 3. Performing the deck watch:

In adverse weather or upon receiving storm warnings, the officer

must take necessary measures to safeguard the ship, its
occupants, and cargo. Preventing pollution of the environment is
a paramount concern, and in the event of an emergency
jeopardizing the ship's safety, immediate action must be taken.
This includes raising the alarm, informing the master, and
implementing measures to prevent damage to the ship, cargo,
and persons on board. Requesting assistance from shore
authorities or neighboring ships may be required in such
situations.
4. Watch in port on ships carrying
hazardous and non-hazardous
cargoes:
Watchkeeping officers are required to supervise the
various operations in port. Such supervision has a major
impact on the safety of the vessel, care and safety of
the cargo and quicker turn round of ships shorter port
stay.
In ports, ships carrying hazardous cargo, including
materials that are explosive, flammable, toxic, pose
health risks, or have the potential to harm the
environment, must maintain safe watchkeeping
arrangements.
For ships transporting hazardous cargo in bulk, this
involves having qualified officers and ratings available
on board, even when the ship is safely moored or at
anchor.
On ships with hazardous cargo not in bulk, the master
must consider the nature, quantity, packaging, and
storage of the cargo, along with any specific conditions
on board or in the surrounding environment. This
ensures that watchkeeping is geared towards safety and
the protection of the environment when handling such
cargo.
"Watchkeeping in port is not just about
monitoring movements; it's a
symphony of vigilance, responsibility,
and precision, ensuring the ship's
heartbeat aligns with the rhythm of the
harbor's ebb and flow."
 Watchkeeping in port
Conclusion
In conclusion, watchkeeping deck responsibilities in port are pivotal to
maritime safety and efficiency. The STCW Code provides the framework
for these responsibilities, but it is the watchkeepers' vigilance,
cooperation, and dedication that truly ensure the safe harbor. Through
these examples and case studies, we see the watchkeeper's role as a
guardian of maritime operations, demonstrating their commitment to
safety, security, and the environment.
Presented by Aldrich Bunyi

Thank
you very
much!