Deckhand Onboarding Checklist

Deckhand Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Deckhand starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Maritime onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Deckhand, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Deckhand onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Deckhand Onboarding Checklist

1. Safety Training: The deckhand must undergo comprehensive safety training to ensure they are aware of the potential hazards and safety protocols on board. This training includes familiarization with emergency procedures, proper use of safety equipment, and understanding the layout of the vessel. The safety officer or designated safety personnel in the company typically conduct this training.

2. Vessel Orientation: The deckhand needs to become familiar with the layout and operations of the specific vessel they will be working on. This includes understanding the different areas of the ship, such as the deck, engine room, and living quarters, as well as the location and function of essential equipment and machinery. The vessel’s captain or a senior deckhand usually provides this orientation.

3. Equipment Familiarization: The deckhand must be trained on the proper use, maintenance, and storage of various equipment and tools used on board. This includes ropes, winches, cranes, life-saving appliances, firefighting equipment, and navigation instruments. The chief engineer or a designated crew member responsible for equipment maintenance typically conducts this training.

4. Knot Tying and Line Handling: Proficiency in tying various knots and handling lines is crucial for a deckhand. They need to learn how to secure the vessel to the dock, tie different types of knots for different purposes, and handle lines during docking, anchoring, and towing operations. Senior deckhands or experienced crew members often provide hands-on training for knot tying and line handling.

5. Navigation and Chart Reading: Deckhands need to understand basic navigation principles and be able to read nautical charts to assist with navigation tasks. This includes learning about different chart symbols, understanding depth soundings, and interpreting navigational aids. The ship’s officer or designated navigation personnel typically provide this training.

6. Cargo Handling: Depending on the type of vessel, deckhands may be involved in loading and unloading cargo. They need to learn proper cargo handling techniques, including securing cargo, operating cranes or forklifts, and following safety protocols during cargo operations. The chief mate or a designated cargo handling supervisor usually provides this training.

7. Maintenance and Cleaning: Deckhands are responsible for general maintenance and cleaning tasks on board. This includes painting, varnishing, cleaning decks, and maintaining the cleanliness of common areas. The chief engineer or a designated maintenance supervisor typically oversees this aspect of training.

8. Emergency Response: Deckhands must be trained in emergency response procedures, including fire drills, man overboard drills, and abandon ship drills. They need to understand their roles and responsibilities during emergencies and be familiar with the location and use of emergency equipment. The safety officer or designated safety personnel in the company usually conduct this training.

9. Watchkeeping: Deckhands need to learn the basics of watchkeeping, which involves maintaining a lookout, monitoring the vessel’s position, and reporting any abnormalities or hazards. They must understand the watchkeeping schedule, be familiar with communication systems, and know how to log relevant information. The ship’s officer or designated watchkeeping personnel typically provide this training.

10. Teamwork and Communication: Deckhands must understand the importance of effective teamwork and communication on board. They need to learn how to work collaboratively with other crew members, follow orders, and communicate clearly and efficiently. The captain or a designated crew member responsible for crew coordination often emphasizes this aspect during the onboarding process.

11. Company Policies and Procedures: The deckhand should receive an overview of the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to safety, environmental protection, and crew conduct. This ensures they understand and comply with the company’s standards and expectations. The human resources department or a designated company representative typically provides this information.

12. Licensing and Certification: Depending on the vessel and its operations, deckhands may need to obtain specific licenses or certifications. This could include certifications in firefighting, first aid, survival at sea, or specific vessel operations. The company may assist the deckhand in obtaining these certifications by providing necessary training or guidance.

13. Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity Training: In the maritime industry, crew members often come from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Deckhands should receive training on cultural sensitivity and diversity to foster a respectful and inclusive work environment. This training may be conducted by the human resources department or a designated diversity and inclusion officer.

14. Onboard Policies and Etiquette: The deckhand should be informed about specific onboard policies and etiquette, such as mealtime protocols, dress code, smoking regulations, and personal conduct expectations. This ensures they integrate smoothly into the vessel’s social dynamics and adhere to the established norms. The captain or a designated crew member responsible for onboard culture typically provides this information.

15. Familiarization with Port Operations: Deckhands should receive an overview of port operations, including procedures for entering and leaving ports, customs and immigration requirements, and port-specific regulations. This knowledge helps them understand their role during port calls and ensures compliance with local regulations. The ship’s officer or designated port operations personnel typically provide this training.

16. Continuous Professional Development: The deckhand should be encouraged to engage in continuous professional development to enhance their skills and knowledge. This may involve attending additional training courses, workshops, or seminars related to their occupation or maritime industry trends. The company’s training department or a designated professional development coordinator can guide the deckhand in this aspect.

By completing these onboarding tasks, a deckhand can start their journey with a new maritime company well-prepared, equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding of the company’s operations and expectations

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Deckhand checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Deckhand up to speed and working well in your Maritime team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.