Chief Officer (C/O)

C/O is in-charge of deck department, he reports to the Master.
In absence of Master or in case the Master is incapacitated, C/O may be required to take temporary command of vessel, subject to prior approval from DPA.

Responsibilities -
1. Keep the 4 o’clock – 8 o’clock navigational watch.
2. Control all activities related to cargo operations.
3. Liaise with shore authorities related to cargo operations.
4. Ensure safety of cargo during loading, discharging and whilst during passage.
5. Calculate trim and stability for cargo loading, ballasting and de-ballasting operations.
6. Take station at the forecastle and attend to all activities during arrival and departure, and whilst anchoring and departing from anchorage.
7. Identify potential hazards associated with deck operations and advise Master accordingly.
8. Investigate nonconformities and apply corrective and preventive actions in consultation with the Master.
9. Ensure that vessel’s hull and deck machinery and equipments are maintained as per schedule.
10. Advise Master in advance of all requirements of deck stores and spares.
11. Maintain inventory of all deck stores and spares.
12. Every month, report all defects (repaired / not repaired) to BSM (through Master).
13. Assign specific roles to deck officers and deck ratings.
14. Instruct officers, rating and cadets on relevant procedures.
15. Ensure that deck crew follow safe working practices.
16. Evaluate juniors and report performance to the Master.
17. Supervise work carried out by workshops on deck, and deck machinery and equipments.
18. Ensure that deck logbook is maintained properly.
19. Ensure cleanliness in accommodation spaces (including passageways, mess-rooms, recreational areas, galley, provisions room, linen storage room, bathrooms and toilets).
20. Perform other duties as assigned by Master (depending on situation).