Bridge Watch Handover Checklist
This comprehensive marine checklist supports compliance with IMO SOLAS Convention and IMO ISM Code, helping crews verify critical safety and pollution-prevention controls. Designed for Officer of the Watch roles in Navigation to document deficiencies and corrective actions.
- Industry: Navigation
- Frequency: Per watch
- Estimated Time: 15-25 minutes
- Role: Officer of the Watch
- Total Items: 43
- Compliance: IMO SOLAS Convention, IMO ISM Code, IMO MARPOL Convention, USCG 46 CFR (Marine Safety), IMO STCW Convention
Vessel Certification & Documentation
Verify vessel certificates, logs, and required documentation are current.
- Certificates/permits onboard and valid?
- Safety management documentation current?
- Crew licenses/endorsements verified?
- Logbooks completed (bridge/engine/garbage/oil)?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Life-Saving Appliances
Inspect life-saving equipment readiness and accessibility.
- Liferafts/launch systems inspected and within service date?
- Lifejackets available, sized, and accessible?
- EPIRB/SART tested per schedule?
- Muster list posted and current?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Fire Safety & Fixed Systems
Confirm firefighting equipment condition and fixed system readiness.
- Portable extinguishers inspected and charged?
- Fire main/hoses/nozzles serviceable?
- Fixed suppression systems in normal status?
- Fire doors/dampers operational and unobstructed?
- Temperature reading (if applicable)
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Navigation & Bridge Watch
Validate navigation equipment, charts, and watchkeeping controls.
- ECDIS/charts corrected and up to date?
- Radars/AIS/VHF operational?
- Navigation lights/shapes operational?
- Bridge watch handover checklist completed?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Pollution Prevention & Environmental Controls
Check controls for MARPOL/anti-pollution compliance.
- Oily water separator operational and alarms functional?
- SOPEP/SMPEP kit complete and accessible?
- Garbage segregation and recordkeeping compliant?
- Bunkering controls and drip trays in place?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Cargo & Deck Operations
Inspect lifting gear, deck safety, and cargo securing practices.
- Lifting appliances certified and inspected?
- Cargo secured and lashings tensioned as required?
- Deck walkways clear; anti-slip effective?
- Permit-to-work used for high-risk tasks?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Corrective Actions & Stop Work
Record deficiencies, nonconformities, and stop-work actions.
- Hazards mitigated or operations paused if unsafe?
- Corrective actions assigned and tracked?
- Master/Chief Engineer notified?
- Follow-up inspection planned?
- Notes / observations
- Photo evidence
Related Transportation Checklists
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- Batch 4I Dot Checklist 71
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Why Use This Bridge Watch Handover Checklist?
This bridge watch handover checklist helps navigation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for officer of the watch professionals, this checklist covers 43 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: per watch.
Ensures compliance with IMO SOLAS Convention, IMO ISM Code, IMO MARPOL Convention, USCG 46 CFR (Marine Safety), IMO STCW Convention. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Bridge Watch Handover Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 43 inspection items across 7 sections: Vessel Certification & Documentation, Life-Saving Appliances, Fire Safety & Fixed Systems, Navigation & Bridge Watch, Pollution Prevention & Environmental Controls, Cargo & Deck Operations, Corrective Actions & Stop Work. It is designed for navigation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per watch. Each completion takes approximately 15-25 minutes.
Who should use this Bridge Watch Handover Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Officer of the Watch professionals in the navigation 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.