Ship Operation and Personnel Management
Operational and human factors
You must understand the master's authority and the duty to render assistance, the chain of command, and the role of the watchkeeper in reporting defects. Know the purpose of the Safety Management System under the ISM Code, including the designated person ashore, non-conformities and the master's review. Understand fatigue management, rest hour requirements, and why a well-rested watch is a safety requirement. Know the elements of a permit-to-work system for enclosed spaces and hot work.
Traps
A frequent trap is the assumption that rest hours can be averaged freely; minimum rest in any 24-hour period and any 7-day period must be respected. Another is confusing a non-conformity with an accident: a non-conformity is a deviation from procedure, an accident is an occurrence causing harm. Watch for questions on the master's overriding authority, which cannot be limited by the company, and on the requirement to report hazards through the safety management system rather than informally.
Worked rule of thumb
For enclosed space entry, apply the rule of three: atmosphere tested and certified, permit issued, and a responsible person stationed at the entrance with communications. If any one is missing, entry is prohibited. For rest hours, remember the common minimum of 10 hours rest in any 24-hour period and 77 hours in any 7-day period, subject to the applicable convention. Use a simple log to check compliance before an inspection, and record any deviation with the reason, since unrecorded deviations are treated as breaches.