Appendix 2

Guidance regarding watchkeeping arrangements
and principles to be observed

[Section B-VIII/2 of the STCW Code]

Note: A condensed guide to watchkeeping arrangements and principles as they apply to the navigational watch is set out in Appendix 3 and as they apply to the engineering watch in Appendix 4.

1 Guidance on keeping a navigational watch

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 Particular guidance may be necessary for special types of ships as well as for ships carrying hazardous, dangerous, toxic or highly flammable cargoes. The master should provide this operational guidance as appropriate.

1.1.2 It is essential that officers in charge of the navigational watch appreciate that the efficient performance of their duties is necessary in the interests of the safety of life and property at sea and of preventing pollution of the marine environment.

1.2 Bridge resource management

1.2.1 Companies should issue guidance on proper bridge procedures, and promote the use of checklists appropriate to each ship taking into account national and international guidance.

1.2.2 Companies should also issue guidance to masters and officers in charge of the navigational watch on each ship concerning the need for continuously reassessing how bridge‑watch resources are being allocated and used, based on bridge resource management principles such as the following:

(a) a sufficient number of qualified individuals should be on watch to ensure all duties can be performed effectively;
(b) all members of the navigational watch should be appropriately qualified and fit to perform their duties efficiently and effectively or the officer in charge of the navigational watch should take into account any limitation in qualifications or fitness of the individuals available when making navigational and operational decisions;