Officers On Watch (OOW) has duty for the routes and it is extremely busy for coastal routes. Fishing vessels are usually that quickly reacts at all times, they are not aware of the ROR rules. There is a huge type of task that OOW has to manage.


    OOW has to manage all jobs on the bridge at an efficient and accurate allocation of time. It is mandatory for the officer to keep an eye on the primary duties also. He should not forget that other stuff is also his port of job. 
    He also has to ensure that he may avoid collisions and positioning of the ship according to ROR (Rules of Road).

  
  All tasks are mandatory and equally important for safe navigation. He must follow these points:-
  • Master knows by experience and knowledge what is best for every type of water.
  • Use the best available charts on boat.
  • Account for set and drift.
  • Account for currents of strong tides that automatically cause deviation in the operation of ships.
  • Identify all navigational marks and pick any place as soon as possible.
  • To follow all rules of traffic separation schemes to avoid collisions.
  • Identify all the blind spots, and navigate using all precise information.
  • Adjust the courses to allow a deviation.
  • Avoid moving close to naval hazards, oil fields.
  • With the increase in traffic and the presence of fishing vessels, it demands high vigilance and sharp eyesight.
  • Report to VTS if required. VTS makes it easier for bridge operations.
  • Hand steering is always required in such conditions. Therefor It is necessary for the right person to be on standby for the steering duty.
  • Keep an eye to the UKC to avoid grounding. Seafarers ground vessel troubles know best to avoid such events.
  • Communicate with ECR to ensure that the engines are ready to maneuver as required.
  • Communication is most important on the board. Go for all information mostly from radio logs.
  • Remember to inform the master of any decisions regarding navigation in advance.
  • Most importantly for any emergencies and any other important situation, call the master. He is an expert from his knowledge and experience. 


It is agreed and clear that limited maritime rooms and navigation of ships require a very specific skills in navigation. A sailor is qualified to handle such harsh conditions. Therefore, all the above-mentioned points should be taken into mind.