THE TRAINING NEEDS OF DECK WATCHKEEPING OFFICERS

4.2 SMCP for Navigation Of�icers

After acquiring the pro�iciency in Basic Marine Vocabulary (BMV) and also essential English language skills, navigation cadet of�icers are introduced to the SMCP (Standard Marine Communication Phrases) This stage involves many situations that they will encounter while manning the bridge (ship command center) and while conducting deck operations such as cargo loading and unloading, anchoring, ship maneuvering, bunkering, approaching harbor/port, emergency drills/situations and etc. In this stage, the usage of previously English language skills is highly required and anticipated.

Of�icers must lead and take charge of the situations and as such, they must be pro�icient in the language to be able to proceed with the operations Moreover, of�icers must show the right procedure and manner of work in order to ensure the safety of the crew, the cargo and also the ship. Therefore, precise and correct information is paramount in all communications with the deck crew, ship master (captain), coast station, harbor authorities, ship pilot, other vessels and coast guards. Among the topics covered in this stage are: a. Introduction to Radio Communication b. Routine Communication c. Distress, Urgency and Safety Messages (GMDSS & VHF) d. Message Markers e. Bridge Operations such as Navigation Watch-keeping, Wheel Command, Situation Reports, Changing of Watch, Navigation Commands and Rules of the Road (ROR). f. Ship Operations such as Entering & Leaving Port, Pilot Service, Ship Movement, Anchoring, Cargo Loading & Unloading and etc. g. Emergency Situations: Shipboard Fire, Man Over-Board (MOB), Collision, Grounding, Flooding, Mechanical Failures, Abandon Ship and etc.