A common requirement from all vetting bodies (RiSQ 3.0, SIRE 2.0, DryBMS, TMSA, etc.) is the existence of an Engine Room Manning Matrix, similar to the Bridge Manning Matrix. The significant difference is that the Bridge must always be manned, while most Engine Rooms operate in an Unmanned Status for some periods of the day.
The unmanned status is standardized for specific periods and steaming conditions. Almost all companies have three levels of steaming conditions (Normal, Modified, Maneuvering, or Status I, II, III, or similar). Table 1 shows a common Manning Matrix to cover these three steaming conditions, assuming that the UMS status is from 20:00 to 06:00. Keep in mind EWO refers to the ‘Engine Room Watch Officer’ and Maneuvering Watch Status cannot be maintained for period more than 12 hours.
Chief Engineer may increase manning levels when required, whether planned or unplanned. As far as possible, the work/rest hour requirements should still be met.
Table 1: Sample of a common Manning Matrix
Table 2: Conditions and E/R Watch status
