Elements and Performance Criteria
- Steer a steady course within acceptable limits in normal conditions under the direction of the Master
- Features of vessel that relate to its handling characteristics are recognised
- Navigational equipment is used to steer a steady course
- Situational awareness is maintained to ensure safety of vessel
- Propulsion equipment is used and monitored to assist in steering a steady course within acceptable limits, having regard to the area of navigation and prevailing state of sea
- Safe operating limits of propulsion and steering equipment are not exceeded
- Automatic pilot and hand steering are used to steer a steady course, and course is altered smoothly and in a controlled way
- Helm orders are followed and effective communication is maintained with the Master on matters relevant to the safety and integrity of the vessel
- Steer a vessel in adverse weather conditions under the direction of the Master
- Nature of adverse weather conditions is identified and potential impact on the manoeuvrability of the vessel is determined and confirmed with the Master
- Propulsion equipment is used and monitored to assist in steering a steady course within acceptable limits, having regard to the area of navigation and prevailing state of sea
- Safe operating limits of propulsion and steering equipment are not exceeded
- Situational awareness is maintained at all times to review actions and ensure the safety of the vessel
- Automatic pilot and hand steering are used to steer a steady course, and course is altered smoothly and in a controlled way
- Helm orders are followed and effective communication is maintained with the Master on matters relevant to the safety and integrity of the vessel
- Steer a vessel in emergencies under the direction of the Master
- Nature of the emergency is established and required action is determined and confirmed with the Master
- Helm orders are followed and effective communication is maintained with the Master on matters relevant to the safety and integrity of the vessel
- Vessel is steered during the emergency to maintain the safety of the vessel and those on board, and any other vessels or persons involved in the emergency
- Propulsion equipment is used under the direction of the Master and is monitored to assist in completing steering safely
- Safe operating limits of propulsion and steering equipment are not exceeded
- Steer a vessel while towing and being towed under the direction of the Master