Watchkeeping and UMS

Question 1

Walk me through a typical watch handover

Answer 1

Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure adequate time for proper handover

Check the engine room logbook to look at the readings and comments from previous watches

Make sure previous watchkeeper appears to be fit and healthy

Ask about any:

• Ongoing maintenance that you should be aware of
• Alarms that have gone off during the previous watch
• Unusual readings that have been observed during the previous watch
• Unusual readings that you have seen in the logbook
• Special orders from the bridge that must be followed

Question 2

What could be wrong with the previous watchkeeper if they are unfit for duty

Answer 2

They could be fatigued

Question 3

Under what circumstances would you not do a watch handover

Answer 3

If there are any drills that are currently underway

During entry or exit from harbour

Question 4

How often should you do a round

Answer 4

At least twice a watch, at the beginning and the end

Question 5

What are you looking for during a round

Answer 5

Check funnel smoke colour
Check temperature and pressure gauges for normal readings and check logbook for the same
Check machinery sump/oil levels
Check bilges for water and oil content
Do a fire safety round

Question 6

What is meant by the term UMS

Answer 6

Unmanned Machinery Space

Question 7

What should be done before going into UMS

Answer 7

Full set of rounds
Full fire safety round
Check bilge wells
Check that the dead man alarm is working correctly
Check alarms are working in cabins
Check communications to bridge are working from the engine room/ECR