The Chief Officer is responsible to the Master for the supervision and administration of all Deck Operations. He/she is the second in command of the
vessel and the Officer in Charge in the absence of the Master. He/she is to ensure that the Deck Department is adequately manned and equipped to
perform the duties required at all times.
Training of Junior Officers
The Chief Officer shall ensure that the other deck officers assist and understudy him as an essential part of their training and development. This to include the
preparation/ planning / operation and documentation of the cargo and ballast operations while taking into account the” safe” stability of the vessel. Daily
operations including the safe managing of the deck crew, maintenance.
The proper mentoring / monitoring of junior officers and cadets through onboard training should be consistent as part of their continual personnel
development.
Maintenance
Planning and supervising the maintenance and upkeep of the hull, decks and superstructure is a primary duty of the Chief Officer. Working closely with the
Boatswain, he/she is to ensure that all maintenance work is carried out safely and properly with the emphasis on the control of deterioration and corrosion.
The Chief Officer is to liaise with the Engineering Department to ensure that the tanks, holds, and cargo handling equipment is maintained in good working
order and ensuring any work involving the outward presentation of the shipdoes not take priority over work which is essential for the safety and efficiency
of the ship