Helm Orders

Learning Outcome
At the end of the module, the student should be able to:
• Identify the different helm orders used onboard in English language
• Demonstrate the proper procedures of following commands,
executing helm orders, and reporting procedures in steering of the
ship.
 Helm Orders and Procedures for Steering a Ship
Steering a ship is a critical responsibility that requires clear
communication and precise execution of helm orders. Onboard a ship, helm
orders are used to direct the steering of the vessel and ensure its safe
navigation. In this presentation, we will explore the different helm orders
used onboard a ship in the English language and learn about the proper
procedures for following commands, executing helm orders, and reporting
procedures in steering a ship.
 Understanding Helm Orders
Helm orders are instructions given to the helmsman, who is
responsible for steering the ship. These orders dictate the direction in
which the ship should turn and the degree of the turn. Here are some
commonly used helm orders:
"Hard a-starboard" - This command instructs the helmsman to turn the
ship's wheel as far as possible to the right (starboard side).
"Hard a-port" - This command instructs the helmsman to turn the
ship's wheel as far as possible to the left (port side).
"Right standard rudder" - This order tells the helmsman to turn the
ship's wheel to the right, but not as far as with "hard a-starboard."
 Understanding Helm Orders
"Left standard rudder" - Similar to "right standard rudder," this order
instructs the helmsman to turn the ship's wheel to the left, but not as
far as with "hard a-port."
"Ease the helm" - This command means to gradually bring the ship's
wheel back to a neutral position, straightening the ship's course.
"Steady as she goes" - This order directs the helmsman to maintain the
ship's current course and heading.
"Midships" - Return the ship's wheel to the center position, stopping
any turn in progress.
 Understanding Helm Orders
When "starboard" is followed by a number (e.g. starboard 5, starboard 10, starboard
15, starboard 20), it refers to the degree or angle of the ship's turn to the right
(starboard side) in response to a helm order. These numbers indicate the amount of
rudder angle to be applied when turning the ship.
"Starboard 5" means to turn the ship's wheel to the right, creating a 5-degree angle
of turn.
"Starboard 10" means to turn the ship's wheel to the right, creating a 10-degree
angle of turn.
"Starboard 15" means to turn the ship's wheel to the right, creating a 15-degree
angle of turn.
"Starboard 20" means to turn the ship's wheel to the right, creating a 20-degree
angle of turn.
 Understanding Helm Orders
When "port" is followed by a number (e.g. port 5, port 10, port 15, port 20), it refers
to the degree or angle of the ship's turn to the left (port side) in response to a helm
order. These numbers indicate the amount of rudder angle to be applied when turning
the ship.
For example:
"Port 5" means to turn the ship's wheel to the left, creating a 5-degree angle of turn.
"Port 10" means to turn the ship's wheel to the left, creating a 10-degree angle of
turn.
"Port 15" means to turn the ship's wheel to the left, creating a 15-degree angle of
turn.
"Port 20" means to turn the ship's wheel to the left, creating a 20-degree angle of
turn.
 Understanding Helm Orders
These specific angles are used to provide precise instructions to the
helmsman for turning the ship in a controlled manner. The degree of the
turn will depend on various factors such as the size of the ship, the speed at
which it is traveling, and the desired change in direction.

It's important for the helmsman to accurately follow these helm orders to
ensure safe and efficient navigation of the ship.
Proper Procedures for Following Helm Orders
Executing helm orders accurately and efficiently is crucial for safe
navigation. Here are the proper procedures for following helm orders:
Listen attentively: When a helm order is given, the helmsman must
listen carefully, ensuring they fully understand the command before
taking any action.
Repeat the order: To ensure clarity and avoid confusion, the helmsman
should repeat the order aloud, using the same terminology and
language as the commanding officer.
Take appropriate action: Based on the helm order received, the
helmsman should swiftly and accurately turn the ship's wheel in the
specified direction and degree as instructed.
Proper Procedures for Following Helm Orders
Report completion: Once the helm order has been executed, the
helmsman must report back to the commanding officer, confirming that
the order has been completed.
Monitor course: It is crucial for the helmsman to continuously monitor
the ship's course and make any necessary adjustments to maintain the
desired heading.
Reporting Procedures in Steering a Ship
In addition to executing helm orders, reporting procedures play a vital role
in steering a ship. Here are the reporting procedures commonly followed:
Positive acknowledgement: Once the helmsman receives a helm order,
they should acknowledge it by repeating the order and confirming their
understanding of it.
Execution report: After executing the helm order, the helmsman should
promptly report back to the commanding officer, providing confirmation
that the order has been carried out.
Course correction: If the ship veers off the desired course or there is a
need for adjustment, the helmsman must report this observation to the
commanding officer, enabling timely corrective action.
Reporting Procedures in Steering a Ship
Emergencies and alarms: In the event of an emergency or alarm
situation, the helmsman should report the situation immediately to the
commanding officer, allowing for swift and appropriate response.
By understanding and following proper procedures for helm orders and
reporting, sailors can ensure smooth and safe navigation of the ship.
Clear communication, attentiveness, and swift execution of instructions
are essential components of effective helm orders and steering
procedures onboard a ship.
Remember, safety and precision are paramount when steering a ship,
and adherence to established procedures is of utmost importance.