Feedback – Capt. S****G
Overall, Capt. S****G was a good, cooperative and gentle inspector. His approach was professional and respectful, and he interacted well with the crew.
🔹 Inspection Approach / What He Checks
- Mainly follows the inspection points on his tablet/checklist.
- Frequently verifies procedures against the Company SMS and manuals.
- He appears particularly interested in confirming that crew members have actually read and understood the relevant manuals, rather than only knowing the answer.
- Prefers clear, direct answers to exactly what is asked.
- Does not appreciate unnecessary explanations, excessive talking or trying to show additional knowledge.
- Generally does not unnecessarily dig deeply into equipment details beyond his checklist.
- Respectful and professional interaction works very well with him.
🔹 Bridge
- Checks navigation procedures and officers’ understanding as per his checklist.
- Be prepared for questions on ECDIS, passage planning, navigation equipment, GMDSS, emergency procedures, alarms and bridge watchkeeping.
- No specific bridge remarks were reported from our vessel.
🔹 Deck / Cargo
- Checks deck condition, safety equipment, markings/signage and cargo-related procedures.
- During cargo watch, he asked the Duty Officer questions related to the cargo operation.
- He specifically asked the Duty Officer where the relevant information was mentioned in the Cargo Operating Manual.
- His intention appeared to be to verify whether the Duty Officer had actually gone through and understood the Cargo Operating Manual, rather than simply memorising answers.
- Therefore, all deck/cargo watchkeepers should be familiar with the Cargo Operating Manual and know where important requirements/instructions are located.
- Be prepared for questions on cargo operations, alarms, emergency procedures, PPE, permits and SMS requirements.
🔹 Engine Room
- Checks engine-room procedures and records.
- ORB entries/records were reviewed.
- Be prepared for questions based on the Company SMS/manuals, pollution prevention, machinery safety, alarms, emergency equipment and maintenance records.
- Ensure all records and ORB entries are complete, accurate and properly maintained.
🔹 Galley / Accommodation
- No specific negative observations were reported.
- Maintain good housekeeping, hygiene, food storage, garbage management and general accommodation standards.
- Crew should know the relevant procedures and emergency arrangements.
🔹 Crew Interaction
- Cooperative, gentle and respectful with the crew.
- Crew should remain professional and confident.
- Answer exactly what is asked and avoid over-explaining.
- If asked about a procedure, know where it is written in the relevant manual/SMS, not just the general answer.
- If unsure, refer to the correct manual rather than guessing.
⚠️ Observations / Findings Reported
1. Monkey Island – EPIRB
- Missing EPIRB identification/sticker on Monkey Island.
2. Compressor Room – Fire Extinguisher
- DCP extinguisher holder found in rusted condition.
3. Engine Room – ORB / Records
- Some records/entries were reportedly not properly recorded in the ORB. Exact entry was not recalled, so vessels should ensure all ORB entries are complete, accurate and properly maintained.
4. Bridge
- No observations/remarks reported.
5. Chief Officer
- Positive feedback received regarding the Chief Officer.
🔹 Overall Assessment
Good and fair inspector with a procedure- and checklist-focused approach. He is not overly aggressive and generally cooperates well with the crew.
Main preparation point: Ensure every officer and rating knows the relevant SMS/company manual requirements and, importantly, where the information is located in the manual. Cargo watchkeepers should be particularly familiar with the Cargo Operating Manual and be able to demonstrate that they have actually reviewed it.