Master’s standing order

Purpose :

→ To lay down ground rule for the master‘s expectation from his officers in varying circumstances.

→ To reinforce practices that the master expect to be followed.

→ To create a relationship in which mutual confidence is established.

→ To ensure that a mistake of one person does not put the vessel in danger.

→ For the officer to check their own work and verify that of others when handing over or taking over the watch. This should apply to time under pilot age.

→ The officer will know when the master expected to be called and the master know that the OOW will follow his instruction.

Master’s standing order that should be covered are:

            Keeping a lookout

            Manning on the bridge

            Distress situations

            Protection of the Marine environment

            Use of navigation equipment

            Passing distances

            Calling the Master

            Procedure for Master taking the con.

This should be followed by more detailed advice covering the following watch-keeping situations:

            Ocean Passages

            Coastal Passages

            Traffic separation schemes and confined waters

            Navigation under pilotage

            Restricted visibility

            Heavy weather/ice/TRS

            At Anchor

            In Port

            Preparation of Arrival/Departure

 Content :

→ A set of instructions to OOW in written format.

→ Depends on the events expected at the night.

→ Required to be written by master before he is going to take a rest at night.

→ Generally includes following points:

           → To comply with standing orders.

           → Follow the laid courses. Check and plot positions at required intervals.

           → Keep proper look out and comply with ROR.

           → Calling master at required position, if applicable.

           → Anti piracy watch if required.

→ Preparations before proceeding to pilot stations.

           → Inform ETA.

           → Slow down one hour (or as required for engine) before end of passage position.

           → Call master at the marked position.

           → Rigging pilot ladders in time.

           → Stand by crews in time.

→ Check the vessel's position frequently if at anchor.

→ Calling master if in any doubt.