In this article, we’ll look at the best practices for onboarding your new Ship Deck Hand (Tug). We’ll look at the employee onboarding process/steps you can add to your own reusable Ship Deck Hand (Tug) checklist.
Need help with onboarding new Maritime team members? See the templates and resources we recommend for successful onboarding experiences.
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Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Ship Deck Hand (Tug) 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 Ship Deck Hand (Tug), you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Ship Deck Hand (Tug) onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
1. Safety Training: The ship deck hand’s onboarding process begins with comprehensive safety training. This includes familiarizing them with the ship’s safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the proper use of safety equipment. This task is typically performed by the ship’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer.
2. Introduction to Ship Operations: The new deck hand needs to be introduced to the ship’s operations and understand the various roles and responsibilities on board. This includes learning about the different departments, such as navigation, engineering, and deck operations. The task of providing this introduction is usually performed by the ship’s captain or a senior deck officer.
3. Familiarization with Tug Equipment: As a ship deck hand on a tugboat, it is crucial to become familiar with the specific equipment used on board. This includes learning about the different types of towing lines, winches, and other deck machinery. The task of familiarizing the new deck hand with the tug’s equipment is typically performed by the chief mate or a senior deck hand.
4. Knot Tying and Line Handling: Proficiency in knot tying and line handling is essential for a ship deck hand. They need to learn various knots used in securing lines, attaching tow lines, and handling mooring lines. This task is usually taught by experienced deck hands or the chief mate.
5. Deck Maintenance and Cleaning: A ship deck hand is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the deck area. They need to learn the proper cleaning procedures, including the use of cleaning agents and equipment. This task is typically performed by the chief steward or a designated deck hand responsible for maintenance.
6. Navigation and Chart Reading: Understanding basic navigation principles and being able to read nautical charts is crucial for a ship deck hand. They need to learn how to interpret charts, identify navigational aids, and understand the ship’s position. This task is usually taught by the ship’s navigation officer or a senior deck officer.
7. Cargo Handling: Depending on the type of tugboat, the deck hand may be involved in cargo handling operations. They need to learn how to secure and handle different types of cargo, including containers, barges, or other vessels. This task is typically performed by the chief mate or a senior deck hand experienced in cargo operations.
8. Emergency Response Training: In addition to general safety training, the deck hand needs to undergo specific emergency response training. This includes drills for fire, man overboard, abandon ship, and other emergency scenarios. The ship’s safety officer or designated trainers usually conduct this training.
9. Communication and Radio Procedures: Effective communication is vital for a ship deck hand. They need to learn proper radio procedures, including using the correct terminology, codes, and protocols. This task is typically taught by the ship’s communication officer or a senior deck officer.
10. Watchkeeping Duties: As a ship deck hand, the individual will be assigned watchkeeping duties, which involve monitoring the ship’s surroundings, maintaining a lookout, and reporting any hazards or abnormalities. The task of teaching watchkeeping duties is usually performed by the ship’s officer of the watch or a senior deck hand.
11. Understanding Weather Conditions: A ship deck hand needs to have a basic understanding of weather conditions and their impact on ship operations. They should learn how to interpret weather forecasts, recognize signs of changing weather, and understand the implications for safe navigation. This task is typically taught by the ship’s meteorological officer or a senior deck officer.
12. Teamwork and Collaboration: Working as part of a team is crucial for a ship deck hand. They need to learn how to collaborate effectively with other crew members, follow instructions, and contribute to a positive working environment. This task is usually emphasized by the ship’s captain or a senior deck officer during the onboarding process.
13. Familiarization with International Regulations: A ship deck hand needs to be familiar with international maritime regulations and conventions, such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). This task is typically performed by the ship’s safety officer or a designated regulatory compliance officer.
14. Physical Fitness and Health: The physical demands of being a ship deck hand require individuals to be in good physical condition. They need to undergo medical examinations to ensure they are fit for the job and receive guidance on maintaining their health while at sea. This task is typically performed by the ship’s medical officer or a designated medical professional.
15. Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity Training: In the maritime industry, crew members often come from diverse backgrounds and cultures. A ship deck hand needs to be sensitive to cultural differences and learn how to work harmoniously with colleagues from various nationalities. This task is usually addressed by the ship’s human resources department or a designated diversity and inclusion officer.
16. Documentation and Record-Keeping: A ship deck hand needs to understand the importance of accurate documentation and record-keeping. They should learn how to complete logbooks, incident reports, and other required paperwork. This task is typically taught by the ship’s chief steward or a designated administrative officer.
17. Continuous Professional Development: The onboarding process should emphasize the importance of continuous professional development for a ship deck hand. They should be encouraged to pursue further training and certifications to enhance their skills and career prospects. This task is usually addressed by the ship’s training officer or a designated professional development coordinator
From reading through the items in the example Ship Deck Hand (Tug) checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Ship Deck Hand (Tug) 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.
