Serve as Safety Officer if designated by Master; secure decks for sea (considering heavy weather) and ensure hatches, side-doors, and openings are closed to prevent water ingress; carry out SMS procedures (e.g., risk assessments, permits to work); prepare decks for port arrival or congested waters; supervise pre-arrival/post-departure drug/contraband and stowaway searches in coordination with other department heads, as instructed by the Ship Security Officer (Master).
Responsibilities and Authority of Chief Officer
The Chief Officer is the Master's deputy and second-in-command, responsible for understudying the Master in all aspects and taking over command in case of the Master's death or incapacity. They direct the Second Officer, Third Officer, Deck Cadet, and Deck/Saloon Crew. They typically keep the 0400-0800 and 1600-2000 navigational watches at sea (adjustable by the Master). They are the designated cargo officer, Ballast Water Management Officer, and Bio-fouling Management Plan Officer, and must keep the Master informed on safety, security, cargo, stress, stability, stevedores, defects, and non-conformities.
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