Bridge Watchkeeping and STCW Compliance Checklist
This bridge watchkeeping and STCW compliance checklist ensures compliance with STCW Convention Chapter II/1 (Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch), COLREGS Rule 5 (Lookout), IMO Resolution A.1047(27) (Principles of Safe Manning), and company Bridge Procedures Manual requirements. Designed for OOWs and Masters to maintain safe navigational watches.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Watch
- Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
- Role: Officer of the Watch (OOW)
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: STCW Convention Chapter II/1 OOW Navigational Watch, COLREGS Rule 5 Lookout Requirements, IMO Resolution A.1047(27) Principles of Safe Manning, SOLAS Chapter V Safety of Navigation, Company Bridge Procedures Manual
Watch Handover
OOW handover checklist.
- Vessel position confirmed on chart/ECDIS?
- Course, speed, and next waypoint confirmed from outgoing OOW?
- All radar contacts and CPA/TCPA assessed?
- Outstanding defects affecting navigation reviewed during handover?
- Master's standing orders and night orders reviewed?
Lookout and Monitoring
COLREGS lookout requirements.
- Proper lookout maintained by sight, hearing, and all available means?
- Radar being systematically monitored?
- AIS targets cross-checked with radar contacts?
- VHF Channel 16 continuously monitored?
- Sound signals monitored in restricted visibility?
Collision Avoidance
COLREGS compliance.
- Safe speed maintained per COLREGS Rule 6?
- CPA/TCPA calculated for all close-approach vessels?
- Correct action taken for crossing, overtaking, head-on situations?
- Master called per standing orders when required?
- Traffic Separation Scheme followed correctly (if applicable)?
Navigational Safety
Hazard and UKC monitoring.
- Under-keel clearance acceptable for current depth and passage?
- All charted hazards on passage plan correctly plotted?
- Position fix obtained and plotted within required frequency?
- VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) operational?
- Bridge team adequately resourced for prevailing conditions?
Logbook and Records
Watch record-keeping.
- Deck logbook entries made hourly with position, course, speed, weather?
- All significant events logged (course changes, vessels, incidents)?
- All engine movements logged (port approaches)?
- Watch handover notes prepared for incoming OOW?
- Watch Notes
End of Watch
Watch close-out.
- Formal handover completed to relieving OOW?
- Master updated on significant events during watch?
- Deck logbook page signed by OOW?
- Any navigation equipment defects reported to Chief Officer/Master?
- End of Watch Notes
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Why Use This Bridge Watchkeeping and STCW Compliance Checklist?
This bridge watchkeeping and stcw compliance checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for officer of the watch (oow) professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per watch.
Ensures compliance with STCW Convention Chapter II/1 OOW Navigational Watch, COLREGS Rule 5 Lookout Requirements, IMO Resolution A.1047(27) Principles of Safe Manning, SOLAS Chapter V Safety of Navigation, Company Bridge Procedures Manual. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Bridge Watchkeeping and STCW Compliance Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Watch Handover, Lookout and Monitoring, Collision Avoidance, Navigational Safety, Logbook and Records, End of Watch. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per watch. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Who should use this Bridge Watchkeeping and STCW Compliance Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Officer of the Watch (OOW) professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.