NAV 327

SEMI- FINAL ASSIGNMENT

NAME: VALDEZ, CARLOS DOMINICO

YR/SEC: 2GN
DATE: June 29, 2023
INSTRUCTOR: Capt. Floro Pusta Jr.

ELABORATE the topic, you can submit it docx format.

Parameters, guidance and monitoring of OOW of area being navigated.
MONITORING
Monitoring, also known as watchkeeping, is one of the OOW's essential responsibilities since it considers
the position of the vessel and ensures that it is kept a safe distance from any dangerous places. Only by
closely and continuously monitoring the ship's progress along the pre-planned tracks can a voyage be
made safe and successful. Every deck officer participates in this crucial stage by doing their share to carry
out the strategy. This requires sound judgment, competency at sea, and experience.

While on duty, the OOW (Officer of the Watch) is in charge of making sure the ship is being
navigated safely. An officer on watch (OOW) is a deck officer who is assigned the duties of watch
keeping and navigation on a ship’s bridge. The three main duties of an Officer on Watch can be classified
under watch-keeping, navigation and GMDSS radio watch keeping.  Representing the ship’s master, the
OOW is responsible for the safe and smooth navigation of the ship whilst keeping a watch on the bridge.
Additionally, the Officer on Watch is accountable for the bridge team, who are there to support the OOW
in the navigation process. In order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the vessel, the parameters,
instructions, and monitoring given to the OOW for the area being navigated are extremely important.
Here are several crucial elements:
1. Comparing the Compasses
Comparing the compasses is done to identify compass errors and to have a precise estimate window
within which the compass errors can affect the course to be steered. The OOW must be aware of the
extent of the compass error in case of gyro failure and must compare the repeaters to check that they are
aligned with the master gyro.
2. Checking the gyro for errors
The OOW is responsible for checking the gyro for errors, as the gyro is a piece of equipment used to plan,
execute and monitor the course of the vessel. Different manufacturers of gyros require various levels of
input, and it is the responsibility of the OOW to execute this and account for all errors.
3. Check the Soundings by the echo sounder
Data regarding the depth of water is imperative to the safe navigation of the vessel. It is necessary for the
OOW to record any errors of the echo sounder and to ensure that the correct reading is obtained to avoid
the under- or over-reading of the water depth. Checking the data from the echo sounder is especially
important when in shallow waters, as failure to identify the correct water depth could result in the
grounding of the vessel.
 NAV 327
SEMI- FINAL ASSIGNMENT

NAME: VALDEZ, CARLOS DOMINICO

YR/SEC: 2GN
DATE: June 29, 2023
INSTRUCTOR: Capt. Floro Pusta Jr.

4. Ensure that the Lookout is Alert

Another duty of the OOW is to ensure that the lookout and helmsman are alert at all times. The
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) state that “Every vessel shall at all
times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the
prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of
collision.” This duty is especially vital during periods of reduced visibility, when the role of the lookout is
vital.
5. Navigational Charts and Publications:
The OOW should have access to current tide tables, sailing instructions, nautical charts, and other
materials pertinent to the area being sailed. A deck officer who is given the responsibilities of maintaining
watch and navigating on a ship's bridge is known as an officer on watch (OOW). Watch-keeping,
navigation, and GMDSS radio watch-keeping are the three principal responsibilities of an officer on
watch. These tools offer crucial details on navigating dangers, buoyancy systems, tide information, and
suggested routes.
6. International Regulations and Local Laws:
The OOW must be knowledgeable of both any applicable local laws and regulations as well as any
applicable international legislation, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
(COLREGs). These regulations offer direction on right-of-way policies, signaling, and other crucial
elements of safe navigation.
7. Weather and Sea State:
For safe navigation, it is essential to keep an eye on the weather and the status of the sea. Regular weather
updates, such as forecasts, alerts, and details on noteworthy weather events, should be sent to the OOW.
The OOW can use this information to determine how the weather will affect the vessel's path, speed, and
maneuverability, and can then make the appropriate decisions.
8. Bridge Equipment and Systems:
Radar, electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), automatic identification systems (AIS),
and other pertinent tools are among the navigational systems and equipment that the OOW should be
fully conversant with. This equipment is used by the OOW to track the location of the vessel, find other
vessels, and maintain situational awareness. The OOW must be able to understand its functions and use it
efficiently.
9. Bridge Procedures and Communication:
 NAV 327
SEMI- FINAL ASSIGNMENT

NAME: VALDEZ, CARLOS DOMINICO

YR/SEC: 2GN
DATE: June 29, 2023
INSTRUCTOR: Capt. Floro Pusta Jr.

Clear communication and adherence to bridge procedures are essential. The OOW should follow standard
operating procedures for watchkeeping, communication with other vessels, reporting to the master, and
bridge team coordination. Proper communication ensures efficient coordination with other vessels, Vessel
Traffic Services (VTS), and relevant shore authorities.

10. Continuous Monitoring and Vigilance:

The vessel's position, heading, speed, and other navigational factors must all be closely watched by the
OOW. They should regularly use a variety of tools, such as visual observations, radar, and electronic
navigational systems, to cross-check the position of the vessel. It is essential to keep an eye out for
potential dangers, traffic problems, or detours from the intended path.
Overall, the OOW is ensured a methodical and knowledgeable approach to navigating the
particular area by the parameters, instructions, and monitoring provided to them. The OOW can make
judgments, reduce risks, and uphold the safety of the ship, the crew, and the maritime environment by
following these rules. The OOW must always be highly informed on the ship and how it runs on a daily
basis. This can entail keeping a general eye on the ship's decks to keep an eye on anyone working there
and any cargo or equipment used to handle cargo, if possible. In waters where there is perceived to be a
risk of piracy or armed attack, special watchkeeping arrangements may be necessary. The OOW should
be especially vigilant and should display the necessary warning notices on the equipment controls if work
is being done on deck near radar antennae, radio aerials, and sound signaling equipment.

You will be graded according to elaboration, well elaborated will get 50 pts.
and to those assignment which is not explained well will get 30 pts. Submit by July 5. 2023, hard
copy (print out).

PREPARED BY:
CAPT. FLORO R. PUSTA JR
UCLM MARITIME INSTRUCTOR