What action should the Deck Watch Officer take before announcing a change in watch?

Before announcing a change in watch, it is essential for the Deck Watch Officer to ask for the Commanding Officer’s permission. This step ensures that the DWO adheres to the command structure and operational protocols. The Commanding Officer has the final say on watch changes and may have specific instructions or considerations that need to be addressed prior to making any announcements.

This process promotes a clear line of authority and maintains good communication within the chain of command, which is crucial for effective vessel operation. This procedure helps mitigate risks that might arise from unapproved changes in personnel duties, ensuring that all necessary precautions and responsibilities are accounted for before transitioning from one watch to the next.

Other actions, while they may be important in different contexts—such as informing the Chief Engineer about operational readiness, conducting a safety briefing to inform both incoming and outgoing personnel, or preparing a written report to document the watch change—are secondary to obtaining the Commanding Officer’s permission. Each of these might be relevant in the broader context of watch management, but the priority is first ensuring compliance with proper command authority.