1. Introduction to Watchkeeping Duties

• Roles and responsibilities of a rating in navigational watch.
• Importance of adhering to watchkeeping standards and practices.
• Overview of bridge team operations and hierarchy.

2. Navigation and Lookout Responsibilities

• Principles of navigation and the role of a lookout.
• Maintaining a proper lookout by sight and hearing.
• Reporting observations and responding to navigational instructions.

3. Navigational Equipment

• Basic operation and use of bridge navigational equipment.
• Radar, GPS, ECDIS, and other electronic aids to navigation.
• Maintenance and care of navigational instruments.

4. Bridge Procedures and Practices

• Standard bridge procedures during different stages of navigation (e.g., open sea, coastal waters, port approaches).
• Understanding and following the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS).
• Communication protocols and the use of bridge communication systems.

5. Safety and Emergency Procedures

• Basic safety principles and emergency response protocols.
• Use of safety equipment, including life jackets and fire extinguishers.
• Procedures for man overboard, fire, and other emergencies.

6. Environmental Protection

• Understanding MARPOL regulations and the importance of pollution prevention.
• Procedures for handling and disposing of waste on board.
• Best practices for minimizing environmental impact.

7. Watchkeeping in Adverse Conditions

• Procedures for watchkeeping in poor visibility, heavy traffic, and adverse weather conditions.
• Recognizing and responding to hazards and potential risks.

8. Effective Communication and Teamwork

• Importance of clear and concise communication on the bridge.
• Techniques for effective teamwork and coordination with other crew members.
• Reporting procedures and maintaining an effective log.

9. Practical Training and Assessments

• Hands-on training in performing lookout duties and operating navigational equipment.
• Simulation exercises to practice watchkeeping scenarios and emergency responses.
• Assessments to evaluate competence and readiness for watchkeeping duties.

Practical Training Components

• On-the-Job Training: Supervised watchkeeping experience on board a vessel.
• Simulator Training: Use of bridge simulators to practice and refine skills in a controlled environment.
• Role-Playing Exercises: Scenarios to practice communication, teamwork, and emergency response.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the RFPNW course, participants should be able to:

• Perform lookout duties effectively, maintaining a proper watch by sight and hearing.
• Operate and maintain bridge navigational equipment competently.
• Understand and follow standard bridge procedures and watchkeeping practices.
• Communicate effectively with the bridge team and other crew members.
• Respond appropriately to navigational instructions and emergency situations.
• Adhere to safety and environmental protection regulations.

Certification

Participants who successfully complete the RFPNW course typically receive a certificate of proficiency, which is a prerequisite for serving as a rating forming part of a navigational watch in accordance with the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Convention.

Conclusion

The Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch course is essential for seafarers aspiring to be part of a bridge watchkeeping team. It ensures that participants are well-prepared to support the navigational officer, perform lookout duties, and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. The course emphasizes practical training, adherence to safety standards, and effective communication, which are critical for successful watchkeeping.