Watchkeeping

Question 1

2nd Engineer walk round checks

Answer 1

> I would firstly check all parameters on the computer read out
- status of alarms
- status of the fire systems
- engine status (T’s & P’s)
Look around the engine room for anything abnormal
- any lights that’s have went out
- any abnormal smells, gas or burning
- excessive vibrations
I would check the generators T’s & P’s, I would feel the cooling water pipes (should be cold) & feel the rocker arm covers for abnormal vibrations
I would check the air compressors, this includes draining the air receivers, checking for leaks, checking the pressure (start air = 30 bar, working = 8 bar)
I would check the fuel tank level and drain aswell
Then I would check M/E T’s & P’s, I would check both low and high temp cooling water, L.O. , F.O. , pressure drops of the air cooler and any filters leading to the engine.
I would check the governor oil level
check the differential pressure of the intercooler
check the turbocharger oil levels
I would ensure the purifiers are running, check the temp settings (L.O. = 95C, HFO = 98C)
Then I would check the booster unit fuel temp (HFO=115C, D.O.=55C)
I would also check the fuel pressure, it should be approx 10 bar
I would check access to all emergency exits are clear
I would inspect the fresh water coolers for any leaks & any pressure drops across the cooler
I would carry out bilge checks, this includes checking for any accumulation of water, oil or sludge
If running I would inspect the OWS (OCM reading < 15 ppm, in/out pressures)
Check the hydrophores are at the correct level & pressure
Stern tube seal, I would inspect for leaks
For the boiler I would check the water level
While up at the funnel I would check the economiser by-pass status
Check the sewage plant, checking its mode of operation (At sea = normal treatment/discharge mode, In port/coastal waters = holding tank mode no discharge)
I would inspect the FWG for any leaks
for the steering gear, check for leaks, hydraulic header tank and filters
Then to finish up I would check the header tank levels and for presence of oil.

Question 2

Alarms

Answer 2

Emergency signal: 7 short blasts and 1 long

Abandon ship: verbal by the master

Man overboard signal: 3 long blasts on ships whistle & verbal “man overboard”