Section A-II/3 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch and of masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages
Clasification Society 2023 - Version 9.37

Section A-II/3 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch and of masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages

Officer in charge of a navigational watch

Standard of competence

1 Every candidate for certification shall:

  • .1 be required to demonstrate the competence to undertake, at operational level, the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-II/3;

  • .2 at least hold the appropriate certificate for performing VHF radiocommunications in accordance with the requirements of the Radio Regulations; and

  • .3 if designated to have primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents, hold the appropriate certificate issued or recognized under the provisions of the Radio Regulations.

  2 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification is listed in column 2 of table A-II/3.

  3 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-II/3 shall be sufficient to enable the candidate to serve in the capacity of officer in charge of a navigational watch.

  4 Training and experience to achieve the necessary level of theoretical knowledge, understanding and proficiency shall be based on section A-VIII/2, part 4-1 – Principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch, and shall also take into account the relevant requirements of this part and the guidance given in part B of this Code.

  5 Every candidate for certification shall be required to provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of table A-II/3.

Special training

6 Every candidate for certification as officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages, who, in accordance with paragraph 4.2.1 of regulation II/3, is required to have completed special training, shall follow an approved programme of onboard training which:

  • .1 ensures that, during the required period of seagoing service, the candidate receives systematic practical training and experience in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of an officer in charge of a navigational watch, taking into account the guidance given in section B-II/1 of this Code;

  • .2 is closely supervised and monitored by qualified officers on board the ships in which the approved seagoing service is performed; and

  • .3 is adequately documented in a training record book or similar documentfootnote.

Master

7 Every candidate for certification as master on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage, engaged on near-coastal voyages, shall meet the requirements for an officer in charge of a navigational watch set out below and, in addition, shall be required to provide evidence of knowledge and ability to carry out all the duties of such a master.

Tab A-II/3 Specification of minimum standard of competence for officers in charge of a navigational watch and for masters on ships of less than 500 gross tonnage engaged on near-coastal voyages

Function: Navigation at the operational level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluating competence
Plan and conduct a coastal passage and determine position

Note: Training and assessment in the use of ECDIS is not required for those who serve exclusively on ships not fitted with ECDIS. These limitations shall be reflected in the endorsement issued to the seafarer concerned
Navigation

Ability to determine the ship’s position by the use of:

  • .1 landmarks
  • .2 aids to navigation, including lighthouses, beacons and buoys
  • .3 dead reckoning, taking into account winds, tides, currents and estimated speed
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .4 approved laboratory equipment training


using: chart catalogues, charts, nautical publications, radio navigational warnings, sextant, azimuth mirror, electronic navigation equipment, echo-sounding equipment, compass
Information obtained from nautical charts and publications is relevant, interpreted correctly and properly applied

The primary method of fixing the ship’s position is the most appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions

The position is determined within the limits of acceptable instrument/system errors

The reliability of the information obtained from the primary method of position fixing is checked at appropriate intervals

Calculations and measurements of navigational information are accurate
Thorough knowledge of and ability to use nautical charts and publications, such as sailing directions, tide tables, notices to mariners, radio navigational warnings and ships’ routeing information

Reporting in accordance with General Principles for Ship Reporting Systems and with VTS procedures

Note: This item is only required for certification as master

Voyage planning and navigation for all conditions by acceptable methods of plotting coastal tracks, taking into account, e.g.:
  • .1 restricted waters
  • .2 meteorological conditions
  • .3 ice
  • .4 restricted visibility
  • .5 traffic separation schemes
  • .6 vessel traffic service (VTS) areas
  • .7 areas of extensive tidal effects
Note: This item is only required for certification as master
  Charts and publications selected are the largest scale on board suitable for the area of navigation and charts are corrected in accordance with the latest information available
Thorough knowledge of and ability to use ECDIS Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved training ship experience
  • .2 approved ECDIS simulator training
 
Navigational aids and equipment

Ability to operate safely and determine the ship’s position by use of all navigational aids and equipment commonly fitted on board the ships concerned
Assessment of evidence obtained from approved radar simulator Performance checks and tests of navigation systems comply with manufacturer’s recommendations, good navigational practice and IMO resolutions on performance standards for navigational equipment

Interpretation and analysis of information obtained from radar is in accordance with accepted navigational practice and takes account of the limits and accuracy levels of radar
Compasses

Knowledge of the errors and corrections of magnetic compasses

Ability to determine errors of the compass, using terrestrial means, and to allow for such errors
  Errors in magnetic compasses are determined and applied correctly to courses and bearings
Automatic pilot

Knowledge of automatic pilot systems and procedures; change-over from manual to automatic control and vice versa; adjustment of controls for optimum performance

  Selection of the mode of steering is the most suitable for prevailing weather, sea and traffic conditions and intended manoeuvres
Meteorology

Ability to use and interpret information obtained from shipborne meteorological instruments

Knowledge of the characteristics of the various weather systems, reporting procedures and recording systems
  Measurements and observations of weather conditions are accurate and appropriate to the passage
Ability to apply the meteorological information available Meteorological information is evaluated and applied to maintain the safe passage of the vessel
Maintain a safe navigational watch Watchkeeping

Thorough knowledge of content, application and intent of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended

Knowledge of content of the Principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch

Use of routeing in accordance with the General Provisions on Ships’ Routeing

Use of reporting in accordance with the General Principles for Ship Reporting Systems and with VTS procedures
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .4 approved laboratory equipment training
The conduct, handover and relief of the watch conforms with accepted principles and procedures

A proper look-out is maintained at all times and in conformity with accepted principles and procedures

Lights, shapes and sound signals conform with the requirements contained in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended and are correctly recognized

The frequency and extent of monitoring of traffic, the ship and the environment conform with accepted principles and procedures

Action to avoid close encounters and collision with other vessels is in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended

Decisions to adjust course and/or speed are both timely and in accordance with accepted navigation procedures

A proper record is maintained of movements and activities relating to the navigation of the ship

Responsibility for safe navigation is clearly defined at all times, including periods when the master is on the bridge and when under pilotage
Respond to emergencies Emergency procedures, including:

  • .1 precautions for the protection and safety of passengers in emergency situations
  • .2 initial assessment of damage and damage control
  • .3 action to be taken following a collision
  • .4 action to be taken following a grounding
  • .1 emergency steering
  • .2 arrangements for towing and for being taken in tow
  • .3 rescuing persons from the sea
  • .4 assisting a vessel in distress
  • .5 appreciation of the action to be taken when emergencies arise in port


In addition, the following material should be included for certification as master:
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .4 practical instruction
The type and scale of the emergency is promptly identified

Initial actions and, if appropriate, manoeuvring are in accordance with contingency plans and are appropriate to the urgency of the situation and the nature of the emergency
Respond to a distress signal at sea Search and rescue

Knowledge of the contents of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical instruction or approved simulator training, where appropriate The distress or emergency signal is immediately recognized

Contingency plans and instructions in standing orders are implemented and complied with
Manoeuvre the ship and operate small ship power plants Ship manoeuvring and handling

Knowledge of factors affecting safe manoeuvring and handling

The operation of small ship power plants and auxiliaries

Proper procedures for anchoring and mooring
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
Safe operating limits of ship propulsion, steering and power systems are not exceeded in normal manoeuvres

Adjustments made to the ship’s course and speed maintain safety of navigation

Plant, auxiliary machinery and equipment is operated in accordance with technical specifications and within safe operating limits at all times
Function: Cargo handling and stowage at the operational level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluating competence
Monitor the loading, stowage, securing and unloading of cargoes and their care during the voyage Cargo handling, stowage and securing

Knowledge of safe handling, stowage and securing of cargoes, including dangerous, hazardous and harmful cargoes, and their effect on the safety of life and of the ship

Use of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
Cargo operations are carried out in accordance with the cargo plan or other documents and established safety rules/regulations, equipment operating instructions and shipboard stowage limitations

The handling of dangerous, hazardous and harmful cargoes complies with international regulations and recognized standards and codes of safe practice
Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, understanding and proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluation competence
Ensure compliance with pollution-prevention requirements Prevention of pollution of the marine environment and anti-pollution procedures

Knowledge of the precautions to be taken to prevent pollution of the marine environment

Anti-pollution procedures and all associated equipment
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
Procedures for monitoring shipboard operations and ensuring compliance with MARPOL requirements are fully observed
Maintain seaworthiness of the ship Ship stability

Working knowledge and application of stability, trim and stress tables, diagrams and stress-calculating equipment

Understanding of fundamental actions to be taken in the event of partial loss of intact buoyancy

Understanding of the fundamentals of watertight integrity

Ship construction

General knowledge of the principal structural members of a ship and the proper names for the various parts
Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:
  • .1 approved in-service experience
  • .2 approved training ship experience
  • .3 approved simulator training, where appropriate
  • .4 approved laboratory equipment training
The stability conditions comply with the IMO intact stability criteria under all conditions of loading

Actions to ensure and maintain the watertight integrity of the ship are in accordance with accepted practice
Prevent, control and fight fires on board Fire prevention and fire-fighting appliances

Ability to organize fire drills

Knowledge of classes and chemistry of fire

Knowledge of fire-fighting systems

Understanding of action to be taken in the event of fire, including fires involving oil systems
Assessment of evidence obtained from approved fire-fighting training and experience as set out in section A-VI/3 The type and scale of the problem is promptly identified and initial actions conform with the emergency procedure and contingency plans for the ship

Evacuation, emergency shutdown and isolation procedures are appropriate to the nature of the emergency and are implemented promptly

The order of priority, and the levels and time-scales of making reports and informing personnel on board, are relevant to the nature of the emergency and reflect the urgency of the problem
Operate life-saving appliances Life-saving

Ability to organize abandon ship drills and knowledge of the operation of survival craft and rescue boats, their launching appliances and arrangements, and their equipment, including radio life-saving appliances, satellite EPIRBs, SARTs, immersion suits and thermal protective aids
Assessment of evidence obtained from approved training and experience as set out in section A-VI/2, paragraphs 1 to 4 Actions in responding to abandon ship and survival situations are appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions and comply with accepted safety practices and standards
Apply medical first aid on board ship Medical aid

Practical application of medical guides and advice by radio, including the ability to take effective action based on such knowledge in the case of accidents or illnesses that are likely to occur on board ship
Assessment of evidence obtained from approved training as set out in section A-VI/4, paragraphs 1 to 3 The identification of probable cause, nature and extent of injuries or conditions is prompt and treatment minimizes immediate threat to life
Monitor compliance with legislative requirements Basic working knowledge of the relevant IMO conventions concerning safety of life at sea, security and protection of the marine environment Assessment of evidence obtained from examination or approved training Legislative requirements relating to safety of life at sea, security and protection of the marine environment are correctly identified
Contribute to the safety of personnel and ship Knowledge of personal survival techniques

Knowledge of fire prevention and ability to fight and extinguish fires

Knowledge of elementary first aid

Knowledge of personal safety and social responsibilities
Assessment of evidence obtained from approved training and experiences as set out in section A-VI/1, paragraph 2 Appropriate safety and protective equipment is correctly used

Procedures and safe working practices designed to safeguard personnel and the ship are observed at all times

Procedures designed to safeguard the environment are observed at all times

Initial and follow-up actions on becoming aware of an emergency conform with established emergency response procedures

Copyright 2022 Clasification Society Group Limited, International Maritime Organization, International Labour Organization or Maritime and Coastguard Agency. All rights reserved. Clasification Society Group Limited, its affiliates and subsidiaries and their respective officers, employees or agents are, individually and collectively, referred to in this clause as 'Clasification Society'. Clasifications Register assumes no responsibility and shall not be liable to any person for any loss, damage or expense caused by reliance on the information or advice in this document or howsoever provided, unless that person has signed a contract with the relevant Clasification Society entity for the provision of this information or advice and in that case any responsibility or liability is exclusively on the terms and conditions set out in that contract.