Maritime Chain of Command & Rank Descriptions
Oct 27, 2025



Deck Department

‣Captain (Master) – The highest authority on board. Responsible for the entire ship, crew, cargo, and safe navigation.
‣Chief Officer – Second-in-command. Manages the deck crew, cargo loading and unloading, and ensures the ship’s stability and safety.
‣Second Officer – Navigation officer. Prepares voyage plans, updates charts, and handles safety and navigation equipment.
‣Third Officer – Responsible for life-saving and fire-fighting equipment. Assists in watchkeeping and navigation.
‣Deck Cadet – An apprentice officer. Learn navigation, bridge watchkeeping, and ship operations.
‣Bosun – Leader of the deck ratings. Supervises maintenance work, painting, mooring, and deck operations.
‣Able Seaman (AB) – Skilled deck crew member. Stands watch, assists in mooring, steering, and maintenance.
‣Ordinary Seaman (OS) – Entry-level deck worker. Assists ABs and learns basic seamanship duties.


Engine Department

‣Chief Engineer – Head of the engine department. In charge of all machinery, engine room operations, and technical safety.
‣Second Engineer – Assistant to the Chief Engineer. Oversees day-to-day engine room activities and maintenance schedules.
‣Third Engineer – Maintains main engines, pumps, and fuel systems. Assists in engine watchkeeping.
‣Fourth Engineer – Handles auxiliary engines, purifiers, and daily machinery checks.
‣Engine Cadet – Trainee engineer. Observes and assists in engine room operations and machinery maintenance.
‣Oiler – Lubricates machinery and assists engineers in engine watch and maintenance duties.
‣Fitter – Skilled technician. Performs welding, repairs, and fabrication of metal parts and pipes.
‣Wiper – Entry-level engine crew. Keeps the engine room clean and assists Oilers and Fitters.

‣Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) – Responsible for electrical, electronic, automation, and communication systems on board.
‣Electrical Cadet – Assists the ETO and learns electrical maintenance and troubleshooting.

Catering / Galley Department

Chief Cook – Manages the galley. Prepares meals, plans menus, and ensures food hygiene and storage.
Messman – Assists the cook, serves meals, and maintains cleanliness in the mess hall and crew accommodation.

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Arrangements oF Combination Ladder for High Freeboard Vessels

A combination ladder arrangement for high freeboard vessels refers to the required setup that combines an accommodation ladder with a pilot ladder to ensure the safe transfer of marine pilots between a pilot boat and the ship. This arrangement is used when the vessel’s freeboard is too high for a pilot ladder alone to reach safely. In this setup, the accommodation ladder provides the main inclined walkway, while the pilot ladder is rigged at the lower end of the platform so the pilot can board and disembark at a safe height above the sea. International regulations prescribe several key requirements: • The pilot ladder must extend at least 2 meters above the lower platform. • The ladder must be secured to the ship’s side at a point 1.5 meters above the accommodation ladder platform. • The pilot ladder must offer a climbing height of 1.5 to 9 meters. • The lower platform must remain horizontal and positioned at least 5 meters above the water. • The accommodation ladder must maintain a maximum slope of 45 degrees.

Micrometer

What is a Micrometer A micrometer is a precision measuring instrument widely used in engineering, machining, ship maintenance, and industrial applications where accuracy is critical. It is designed to measure very small dimensions such as thickness, diameter, and length with high precision. Understanding the different parts of a micrometer helps users operate the tool correctly and achieve accurate measurements.

MULTIMETER

WHAT IS A MULTIMETER A multimeter is an essential diagnostic tool used in marine, electrical, and industrial environments to measure and troubleshoot electrical systems safely and accurately. This visual guide breaks down the key symbols, buttons, and sockets found on a digital multimeter, helping users quickly understand its functions and proper usage. The display section highlights important features such as AC/DC voltage readings, frequency, auto-ranging, hold, and min/max values, allowing precise monitoring of electrical parameters. Control buttons like Hold, Range, Function, and Brightness enhance ease of use, especially in low-light or onboard conditions.

JET CHISEL

A jet chisel (also called needle scaler) is a pneumatic tool made up of multiple thin steel rods (“needles”) that rapidly move back and forth when connected to compressed air. The vibration of the needles chips away rust, old paint, scale, and marine growth on metal surfaces. Think of it as “pangbaklas ng kalawang, pero industrial version.” Purpose: • Remove rust, corrosion, and scale from steel surfaces • Prepare metal before painting, welding, or coating • Clean areas where grinders and wire brushes can’t reach (corners, tight spots, edges) • Reduce manual scraping time and physical fatigue How to Use: 1. PPE First • Safety goggles / face shield • Ear protection (maingay ’yan) • Gloves • Mask (dust/rust particles) • Proper coverall 2. Check the Tool • Inspect air hose, connectors, and needles • Ensure air compressor pressure is within recommended range (usually 90 psi ± depending on tool) 3. Connect to Compressed Air • Attach hose firmly • Open the air valve gradually 4. Operate • Hold the tool with both hands • Press the needles gently against the surface — do not push too hard • Let the vibration do the work • Work in steady strokes 5. After Use • Shut off air supply • Clean and oil the needles to prevent rust • Store in dry location

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