Security Levels


 

  National Threat Level: Elevated

National Maritime Center (NMC)
Mariner Licensing and Documentation (MLD)

Chapter III

STANDARDS REGARDING THE ENGINE DEPARTMENT

Section A-III/1    (back to top)

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine-room

Training

On-board training

Standard of Competence

Near-coastal voyages

Table A-III/1

Specification of minimum standard of competence for officers in charge of an engineering watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine-room

Function: Marine engineering at the operational level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Use appropriate tools for fabrication and repair operations typically performed on ships Characteristics and limitations of materials used in construction and repair of ships and equipment Characteristics and limitations of processes used for fabrication and repair

Properties and parameters considered in the fabrication and repair of systems and components Application of safe working practices in the workshop environment

Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved workshop skills training

.2 approved practical experience and tests

Identification of important parameters for fabrication of typical ship related components is appropriate

Selection of material is appropriate Fabrication is to designated tolerances

Use of equipment and machine tools is appropriate and safe

Use hand tools and measuring equipment for dismantling, maintenance, repair and re-assembly of shipboard plant and equipment Design characteristics and selection of materials in construction of equipment
Interpretation of machinery drawings and handbooks

Operational characteristics of equipment and systems

Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved workshop skill training

.2 approved practical experience and tests

Safety procedures followed are appropriate

Selection of tools and spare gear is appropriate

Dismantling, inspecting, repairing and reassembling equipment is in accordance with manuals and good practice

Re-commissioning and performance testing is in accordance with manuals and good practice

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Use hand tools, electrical and electronic measuring and test equipment for fault finding, maintenance and repair operations Safety requirements for working on shipboard electrical systems

Construction and operational characteristics of shipboard AC and DC electrical systems and equipment

Construction and operation of electrical test and measuring equipment

Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved workshop skills training

.2 approved practical experience and tests

Implementation of safety procedures is satisfactory

Selection and use of test equipment is appropriate and interpretation of results is accurate

Selection of procedures for the conduct of repair and maintenance is in accordance with manuals and good practice

Commissioning and performance testing of equipment and systems brought back into service after repair is in accordance with manuals and good practice

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Maintain a safe engineering watch Thorough knowledge of basic principles to be observed in keeping an engineering watch including:

.1 duties associated with taking over and accepting a watch

.2 routine duties undertaken during a watch

.3 maintenance of the machinery space log book and the significance of the readings taken

.4 duties associated with handing over a watch

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

The frequency and extent of monitoring of engineering equipment and systems conforms to manufacturers' recommendations and accepted principles and procedures including basic principles to be observed in keeping an engineering watch

A proper record is maintained of the movements and activities relating to the ship's engineering systems

Maintain a safe engineering watch (continued) Safety and emergency procedures; changeover of remote/automatic to local control of all systems

Safety precautions to be observed during a watch and immediate actions to be taken in the event of fire or accident, with particular reference to oil systems

   
Use English in written and oral form Adequate knowledge of the English language to enable the officer to use engineering publications and to perform engineering duties Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical instruction English language publications relevant to engineering duties are correctly interpreted

Communications are clear and understood

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Operate main and auxiliary machinery and associated control systems Main and auxiliary machinery:

.1 preparation of main machinery and preparation of auxiliary machinery for operation

.2 operation of steam boilers, including combustion systems

.3 methods of checking water level in steam boilers and action necessary if water level is abnormal

.4 location of common faults in machinery and plant in engine and boiler rooms and action necessary to prevent damage

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

Operations are planned and carried out in accordance with established rules and procedures to ensure safety of operations and avoid pollution of the marine environment

Deviations from the norm are promptly identified

The output of plant and engineering systems consistently meets requirements including bridge orders relating to changes in speed and direction

The causes of machinery malfunctions are promptly identified and actions are designed to ensure the overall safety of the ship and the plant having regard to the prevailing circumstances and conditions

Operate pumping systems and associated control systems Pumping systems:

.1 routine pumping operations

.2 operation of bilge, ballast and cargo pumping systems

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

Operations are planned and carried out in accordance with established rules and procedures to ensure safety of operations and avoid pollution of the marine environment

Function: Maintenance and repair at the operational level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Maintain marine engineering systems including control systems Marine systems

Appropriate basic mechanical knowledge and skills

Safety and emergency procedures:

Safe isolation of electrical and all plant and equipment required before personnel are permitted to work on such plant or equipment

Undertake maintenance and repair to plant and equipment

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

Isolation, dismantling and re-assembly of plant and equipment is in accordance with accepted practices and procedures. Action taken leads to the restoration of plant by the method most suitable and appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions

Function: Electrical, electronic and control engineering at the operational level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Operate alternators, generators and control systems Generating plant:

Appropriate basic electrical knowledge and skills

Preparing, starting, coupling and changing over alternators or generators

Location of common faults and action to prevent damage

Control systems:

Location of common faults and action to prevent damage

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

Operations are planned and carried out in accordance with established rules and procedures to ensure safety of operations

Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the operational level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Ensure compliance with pollution prevention requirements Prevention of pollution of the marine environment

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 the fundamentals of watertight integrity

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

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

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Prevent, control and fight fires on board Fire prevention and fire-fighting appliances

Knowledge of fire prevention

Ability to organize fire drills

Knowledge of classes and chemistry of fire

Knowledge of fire-fighting systems

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.

Knowledge of survival at sea techniques

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
COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
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 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 and protection of the marine environment Assessment of evidence obtained from examination or approved training Legislative requirements relating to safety of life at sea and protection of the marine environment are correctly identified

Section A-III/2    (back to top)

Standard of Competence

Near-coastal voyages

Table A-III/2

Specification of minimum standard of competence for chief engineer officers and second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3,000 kW propulsion power or more

Function: Marine engineering at the management level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Plan and schedule operations Theoretical knowledge

Thermodynamics and heat transmission

Mechanics and hydromechanics

Operating principles of ship power installations (diesel, steam and gas turbine) and refrigeration

Physical and chemical properties of fuels and lubricants

Technology of materials

Naval architecture and ship construction, including damage control

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

The planning and preparation of operations is suited to the design parameters of the power installation and to the requirements of the voyage
Start up and shut down main propulsion and auxiliary machinery including associated systems   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.

The methods of preparing the start-up and of making available fuels, lubricants, cooling water and air are the most appropriate

Checks of pressures, temperatures and revolutions during the start-up and warm-up period are in accordance with technical specifications and agreed work plans

Surveillance of main propulsion plant and auxiliary systems is sufficient to maintain safe operating conditions

The methods of preparing the shut-down and of supervising the cooling-down of the engine are the most appropriate

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Operate, monitor and evaluate engine performance and capacity Practical knowledge

Operation and maintenance of:

.1 marine diesel engines

.2 marine steam propulsion plant

.3 marine gas turbines

Operation and maintenance of auxiliary machinery, including pumping and piping systems, auxiliary boiler plant and steering gear systems

Operation, testing and maintenance of control systems

Operation and maintenance of cargo-handling equipment and deck machinery

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

The methods of measuring the load capacity of the engines are in accordance with technical specifications

Performance is checked against bridge orders

Performance levels are in accordance with technical specifications

Maintain safety of engine equipment, systems and services   Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved in-service experience

.2 approved training ship experience

Arrangements for ensuring the safe and efficient operation and condition of the machinery installation are suitable for all modes of operation
COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Manage fuel and ballast operations Operation and maintenance of machinery including pumps and piping systems 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

Fuel and ballast operations meet operational requirements and are carried out so as to prevent pollution of the marine environment
Use internal communication systems Operation of all internal communication systems on board 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

Transmission and reception of messages are consistently successful Communication records are complete, accurate and comply with statutory requirements

Function: Electrical, electronic and control engineering at the management level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Operate electrical and electronic control equipment Theoretical knowledge

Marine electrotechnology, electronics and electrical equipment

Fundamentals of automation, instrumentation and control systems

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

Operation of equipment and system is in accordance with operating manuals Performance levels are in accordance with technical specifications
Test, detect faults and maintain and restore electrical and electronic control equipment to operating condition   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

Maintenance activities are correctly planned in accordance with technical, legislative, safety and procedural specifications

The effect of malfunctions on associated plant and systems is accurately identified, ship's technical drawings are correctly interpreted, measuring and calibrating instruments are correctly used and actions taken are justified

Function: Maintenance and repair at the management level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Organize safe maintenance and repair procedures Theoretical knowledge

Marine engineering practice

Practical knowledge

Organizing and carrying out safe maintenance and repair 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 workshop training

Maintenance activities are correctly planned and carried out in accordance with technical, legislative, safety and procedural specifications

Appropriate plans, specifications, materials and equipment are available for maintenance and repair

Action taken leads to the restoration of plant by the most suitable method

Detect and identify the cause of machinery malfunctions and correct faults Practical knowledge

Detection of machinery malfunction, location of faults and action to prevent damage

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

The methods of comparing actual operating conditions are in accordance with recommended practices and procedures

Actions and decisions are in accordance with recommended operating specifications and limitations

Ensure safe working practices Practical knowledge

Safe working practices

Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved in-service experience

.2 approved training ship experience

Working practices are in accordance with legislative requirements, codes of practice, permits to work and environmental concerns

Function: Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Control trim, stability and stress Understanding of fundamental principles of ship construction and theories and factors affecting trim and stability and measures necessary to preserve trim and stability

Knowledge of the effect on trim and stability of a ship in the event of damage to and consequent flooding of a compartment and counter measures to be taken

Knowledge of IMO recommendations concerning ship stability

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

Stability and stress conditions are maintained within safety limits at all times
Monitor and control compliance with legislative requirements and measures to ensure safety of life at sea and protection of the marine environment Knowledge of relevant international maritime law embodied in international agreements and conventions

Regard shall be paid especially to the following subjects:

.1 certificates and other documents required to be carried on board ships by international conventions, how they may be obtained and the period of their legal validity

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

Procedures for monitoring operations and maintenance comply with legislative requirements

Potential non-compliance is promptly and fully identified

Requirements for renewal and extension of certificates ensure continued validity of survey items and equipment

Monitor and control compliance with legislative requirements and measures to ensure safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment (continued) .2 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention on Load Lines

.3 responsibilities under the relevant requirements of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

.4 responsibilities under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships

.5 maritime declarations of health and the requirements of the International Health Regulations

.6 responsibilities under international instruments affecting the safety of the ships, passengers, crew or cargo

.7 methods and aids to prevent pollution of the environment by ships

.8 knowledge of national legislation for implementing international agreements and conventions

   
COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Maintain safety and security of the vessel, crew and passengers and the operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems A thorough knowledge of life-saving appliance regulations (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea)

Organization of fire and abandon ship drills

Maintenance of operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other safety systems

Actions to be taken to protect and safeguard all persons on board in emergencies

Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical instruction and approved in-service training and experience Procedures for monitoring fire detection and safety systems ensure that all alarms are detected promptly and acted upon in accordance with established emergency procedures
Develop emergency and damage control plans and handle emergency situations Ship construction, including damage control

Methods and aids for fire prevention, detection and extinction

Functions and use of life-saving appliances

Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from approved in-service training and experience Emergency procedures are in accordance with the established plans for emergency situations
Organize and manage the crew A knowledge of personnel management, organization and training on board ships

A knowledge of international maritime conventions and recommendations, and related national legislation

Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from approved in-service training and experience The crew are allocated duties and informed of expected standards of work and behavior in a manner appropriate to the individuals concerned

Training objectives and activities are based on an assessment of current competence and capabilities and operational requirements

Section A-III/3    (back to top)

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of chief engineer officers and second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of between 750 kW and 3,000 kW propulsion power.

Standard of Competence

Near-coastal voyages

Section A-III/4    (back to top)

Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine-room or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engine-room

Standard of Competence

Table A-III/4

Specification of minimum standard of competence for ratings forming part of an engineering watch

Function: Marine engineering at the support level

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Carry out a watch routine appropriate to the duties of a rating forming part of an engine-room watch

Understand orders and be understood in matters relevant to watchkeeping duties

Terms used in machinery spaces and names of machinery and equipment

Engine-room watchkeeping procedures

Safe working practices as related to engine-room operations

Basic environmental protection procedures

Use of appropriate internal communication system

Engine-room alarm systems and ability to distinguish between the various alarms, with special reference to fire-extinguishing gas alarms

Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved in-service experience; or

.2 approved training ship experience

.3 practical test

Communications are clear and concise and advice or clarification is sought from the officer of the watch where watch information or instructions are not clearly understood

Maintenance, hand-over and relief of the watch is in conformity with accepted principles and procedures

For keeping a boiler watch:

Maintain the correct water levels and steam pressures

Safe operation of boilers Assessment of evidence obtained from one or more of the following:

.1 approved in-service experience; or

.2 approved training ship experience

.3 practical test

Assessment of boiler condition is accurate and based on relevant information available from local and remote indicators and physical inspections

The sequence and timing of adjustments maintains safety and optimum efficiency

COMPETENCE KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING AND PROFICIENCY METHODS FOR DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING COMPETENCE
Operate emergency equipment and apply emergency procedures Knowledge of emergency duties

Escape routes from machinery spaces

Familiarity with the location and use of fire-fighting equipment in the machinery spaces

Assessment of evidence obtained from demonstration and approved in-service experience or approved training ship experience Initial action on becoming aware of an emergency or abnormal situation conforms with established procedures

Communications are clear and concise at all times and orders are acknowledged in a seamanlike manner

(back to top)

decorative Coast Guard horizontal bar image
National Maritime Center logo image

Licensing Questions and Concerns, Contact: IASKNMC
NMC Help Desk: 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662)
Web Site Questions and Concerns, Click here

Last Modified 8/21/2008