Circular No. 07/2012/TT-BGTVT stipulates the positions, duties of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships.

CIRCULAR

Regulations on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships

and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships

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Pursuant to the Maritime Code of Vietnam dated June 14, 2005;

Pursuant to Decree No. 51/2008/NĐ-CP dated April 22, 2008 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Transport;

Based on the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers 1978, as amended in 2010, to which Vietnam is a member.

The Minister of Transport issues this Circular regulating the titles, duties according to the titles of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Circular regulates the titles, duties according to the titles of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships.

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to seafarers working on Vietnamese ships and relevant agencies, organizations, and individuals. For Vietnamese seafarers working on foreign ships, it only applies when specifically provided for in this Circular. Add

Article 3. National flag on Vietnamese ships

1. Seafarers have the obligation to protect and maintain the dignity of the National flag.

2. The National flag must be hoisted at the designated location. When the ship is underway or anchored, the National flag shall be hoisted at the top of the bow mast. For ships without a bow mast, the National flag shall be hoisted at the top of the main mast. Every day, the National flag shall be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. In winter, on foggy days, the National flag shall be raised at a time when it can be seen. The National flag may be raised earlier or lowered later than the specified times in the following cases:

a) Entering or leaving port;

b) Meeting military vessels or Vietnamese vessels when both vessels can see each other.

3. The raising and lowering of the National flag shall be carried out by the watch crew under the orders of the deck watch officer.

4. When the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, President, Vice President, Chairman, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam are on board, in addition to the National flag hoisted at the top of the bow mast, another National flag shall also be hoisted at the top of the main mast and may only be lowered when the aforementioned guests have left the ship.

5. On major holidays or days with special directives from the Prime Minister, the National flag must be raised according to the flag-raising ceremony. When the ship is sailing at sea and weather conditions permit, in addition to the National flag hoisted at the top of the bow mast, another National flag shall also be hoisted at the top of the main mast.

6. When the ship is moored at a foreign port, the Vietnamese National flag must be raised before and lowered after the flag of the country where the port is located.

7. When navigating within territorial waters or entering, leaving, or anchoring in the waters of a foreign port, the ship must hoist the flag of that country at the main mast of the ship.

8. The National flag must be flown in an unfurled state. On days of national mourning, the National flag must be flown according to the mourning ritual.

Article 4. Ceremonial flags on Vietnamese ships

The decoration of ceremonial flags when the ship is moored or anchored at a port must follow the following rituals:

1. Ritual on a major holiday: hoist a line of international maritime signal flags from the bow mast to the stern mast of the ship through crossbars of the foremast and mainmast. At the top of the foremast, mainmast, and stern mast, the National flag shall be hoisted, while the bow mast shall hoist the house flag. If the ship is loading or unloading cargo, the decoration must not affect the ship's cargo handling operations;

2. Ritual on other holidays: hoist a line of international maritime signal flags from the bow mast to the foremast, a second line from the mainmast to the stern mast. The National flag shall be hoisted at the top of the foremast, mainmast, and stern mast;

3. The use of international maritime signal flags for decoration must select flags of appropriate size and color to make the flag line look beautiful and solemn;

4. The Vietnamese National flag and foreign National flags, military flags, rank flags, and red cross flags shall not be used for decoration in the ceremonial flag line.

Article 5. Welcoming Guests on Board the Ship

When guests as specified in Clause 4, Article 3 of this Circular come to visit the ship:

1. In case of prior notice, the captain must order all crew members to wear formal attire appropriate for ceremonial occasions, stand in a straight line along the hallway at the top of the stairs, and the captain must be present at the bottom of the stairs to welcome the guests aboard the ship;

2. In case of no prior notice, the officer on duty on deck must greet the guests at the bottom of the stairs while simultaneously informing the captain to receive the guests.

Chapter II

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES BY POSITION

Section 1

CREW POSITIONS

Article 6. Crew Positions

1. The positions of crew members on Vietnamese ships include: captain, chief mate, deck officer (second mate, third mate), chief engineer, second engineer, engine officer (third engineer, fourth engineer), ship's purser, radio officer, electrical engineer, marine security officer, air conditioning officer, boatswain, boatswain's mate, deckhand on watch, chief machinist, machinist on watch, electrician, radio operator, steward, doctor or medical personnel, waiter, chef, pantryman, head passenger service attendant, passenger service attendant, head table service attendant, table service attendant, baggage store manager, laundry worker, accountant, cashier, salesperson, ticket seller, security guard, air conditioning technician, and pump operator. Depending on the type of ship, technical characteristics, and intended use, the ship owner arranges positions suitable to the ship's complement.

2. For positions not specifically defined in Clause 1 of this Article, the ship owner shall arrange such positions based on the technical conditions and intended use of the ship.

Section 2

DUTIES BY POSITION

Article 7. Duties of the Captain

The captain is the highest authority in command on the ship. The captain has the following duties:

1. Duties of the captain when handing over or receiving the ship:

a) The handover of the ship must be directly between the incoming captain and the outgoing captain;

b) When handing over or receiving the ship, detailed information about the hull, machinery, equipment, property, all documents, cash, and a summary of each category must be handed over;

c) The incoming captain requests the outgoing captain to provide information about the ship's special structure, technical capabilities, operational capacity, and future plans. The outgoing captain requires officers responsible for each department to report in writing on the condition of their respective departments and a list of ship assets. The incoming captain, together with the chief mate, chief engineer, and second engineer, conducts inspections and investigations into the actual condition of the ship;

d) The start and end times of the handover must be recorded in the handover record, both parties must sign it, and it must be entered into the ship's logbook. The ship handover record must be made in four copies: one copy sent to the ship owner, one copy kept on board the ship, and two copies for the handing-over and receiving parties;

đ) The outgoing captain must convene all crew members to introduce the incoming captain and announce the specific time for transferring command to the new captain.

2. Nhiệm vụ của thuyền trưởng khi đưa tàu vào khai thác hoặc ngừng khai thác:

a) Implement the ship owner's orders to put the ship into operation, cease operations, or undergo repairs or dismantling;

b) Before each voyage, the captain must take measures to ensure safety and security for people, the ship, and cargo on board, including technical supplies, fuel, fresh water, food, and provisions of the ship; c) Assign specific tasks to the chief mate and chief engineer to prepare all aspects for the safe departure of the ship according to the scheduled time; d) Check the preparation of nautical charts and other maritime documents related to the entire voyage of the ship;

đ) Be well informed about weather conditions in the area the ship will pass through, plan the voyage, and chart the course on the nautical chart taking into account the full impact of geographical, meteorological, and hydrographic conditions and other factors;

e) Inspect the loading and unloading of cargo according to the cargo plan to ensure quantity and quality of the cargo. Pay particular attention to the loading and transportation of bulk cargo and dangerous goods on the ship; utilize the ship's volume and carrying capacity but ensure its stability and safety;

g) At least two hours before the ship leaves the port, know the status of the ship's preparation work, check the presence of crew members and others still on board the ship;

h) If there is a crew member missing from the ship, to ensure the ship departs on schedule, the captain must promptly inform the port director, ship owner if the ship is docked at domestic ports, or notify the agent, competent diplomatic agency of Vietnam if the ship is docked at foreign ports of the name, position, and shore leave time of that crew member. At the same time, all necessary measures must be taken to ensure that the crew member returns to the ship or meets the ship at the next port, provided that his absence does not affect the safety of the ship;

i) Regularly maintain maritime safety, maritime security, and environmental pollution prevention work.

3. N

hiệm vụ của thuyền trưởng khi tàu hành trình:

a) The captain must ensure that the number of crew members and passengers declared in the crew and passenger list is sufficient and correct;b) Check the implementation of the voyage plan; regularly monitor the watchkeeping system in the bridge, ensuring the ship follows the planned route in the voyage plan and issue commands to the watchkeeping officers when necessary;

c) Apart from the captain, no one has the right to change the predetermined course. In case of collision risk or to avoid unexpected dangerous situations or when someone falls into the water, the deck officer on watch may change the ship's course but must immediately report to the captain afterward.

b) Inspect the implementation of the voyage plan; regularly check the duty roster of the bridge watch, ensure that the vessel follows the planned route as set out in the voyage plan, and issue orders to the watch officers when necessary;

c) Except for the captain, no one has the authority to change the predetermined course. In case of collision risk or to avoid unexpected dangerous situations or if someone falls into the water, the deck watch officer may change the course of the vessel but must immediately report this to the captain afterwards;

d) Promptly be present in the bridge when the on-duty officer requests and frequently be present in the bridge when the vessel navigates through narrow channels, straits, canals, near shorelines, entering or leaving ports, in dangerous areas, during bad weather, with limited visibility, or through areas with high density of watercraft. In such cases, the captain must take appropriate measures, prepare the anchor for immediate dropping, and inform the engine room to be ready for maneuvering as necessary.

đ) When encountering drifting icebergs, obstacles, or other direct dangers to the vessel, or when encountering tropical storms, air temperatures below 0°C^°C accompanied by strong winds causing icing on the superstructure of the vessel, or when encountering winds of Force 9 or higher without receiving storm warnings, the captain must take necessary measures to handle the situation appropriately to ensure safety for people, the vessel, and cargo on board; at the same time, immediately report these developments to surrounding vessels, the shipowner, and the nearest authority that the vessel can contact.

e) In the case where the vessel enters an ice area guided by an icebreaker, the captain must follow the guidance of the icebreaker's captain and promptly provide recommendations to the icebreaker to ensure safe navigation of his own vessel.

g) Daily check and sign off on the contents of various logbooks as prescribed.

h) Continuously maintain maritime safety, maritime security, and environmental pollution prevention work.

4. The captain's duties when a pilot is guiding the vessel:

a) When navigating in compulsory pilotage areas, the pilot must be used according to regulations. In non-compulsory pilotage areas, if deemed necessary, the captain still has the right to use a pilot to ensure safety.

b) Ensure safety in the process of boarding and disembarking the pilot, arrange accommodation and meals for the pilot, and create favorable conditions for the pilot to perform their duties.

c) Before the pilot performs their duties, the captain must inform the pilot about the vessel's maneuvering capabilities, machinery and equipment status, and other necessary information to facilitate the pilot's proactive handling during vessel guidance.

d) Be present in the bridge to promptly address situations, enhance vigilance, and prepare the anchor for immediate dropping. If it is necessary to be absent from the bridge, the captain must introduce to the pilot the officer authorized to replace him.

đ) Using a pilot does not exempt the captain from their duty to command the vessel. The captain must take preventive measures and promptly and accurately handle any situation that may arise to ensure absolute safety for the vessel.

e) In the event the pilot handles a situation inaccurately or unreasonably, the captain must promptly stop the pilot's action and require them to take appropriate actions to ensure the safe navigation of the vessel. If necessary, the captain has the right to request a replacement pilot.

5. The captain's duties when someone falls into the water:

In the event of someone falling into the water, the captain must promptly apply effective measures to search and rescue the victim, while informing the shipowner or manager, operator, Marine Information Center, Maritime Search and Rescue Center, Port Maritime Authority, relevant authorities nearby, and other vessels in the vicinity to assist in the search and rescue operation. The vessel may only leave the area where the person fell into the water after making efforts to search but determining there is no hope of finding the person, except in cases where it poses a serious danger to the vessel and others on board. The time and measures taken for the search and rescue must be recorded in the ship's logbook.

6. The captain's duties in search and rescue operations:

a) Upon receiving a distress signal or discovering a vessel in distress, the captain must promptly dispatch the vessel to rescue the distressed vessel, provided that the rescue does not pose a serious danger to the vessel and its crew. The time, location of the distressed vessel, and reasons for rescuing or not rescuing must be recorded in the ship's logbook.

b) During the rescue of a distressed vessel, the captain must apply all safe and effective measures to save lives. Salvaging the vessel, cargo, and other property can only proceed with the agreement of the distressed vessel's captain under a salvage contract. If the distressed vessel's captain cannot enter into a salvage contract due to some reason, there must be at least verbal, radio, or visible signal agreement. These forms of agreement must be recorded in the ship's logbook.

c) When encountering an unmanned vessel, if conditions permit, the captain must organize towing the vessel to the nearest port and notify the port authority or Port Maritime Authority, the shipowner or manager, operator of the vessel, and the competent diplomatic representative of Vietnam in that country. If towing is not possible, record the position of the vessel, the reason for not towing, and notify the port authority or Port Maritime Authority nearest.

7. The captain's duties when the vessel encounters an accident or collision:

a) In the event of a collision with another vessel, the captain must request the other vessel's captain to inform him of the name, number, IMO number, registered port, departure port, port of call, destination port, and owner's name of the vessel. At the same time, inform the other vessel of similar information about his own vessel and report to the shipowner, operator, and nearest Port Maritime Authority. If feasible and permissible, he must have the responsibility to rescue the damaged vessel, primarily saving people.

b) After an accident or collision occurs, the captain must promptly document the sequence of events, clearly stating the damage suffered by each party, confirmed by the other vessel's captain and relevant parties. Simultaneously, continue to complete the accident documentation as required by law.

c) In case the ship encounters an accident that it cannot be salvaged and must abandon the ship, the captain shall take all measures to rescue people and organize the carrying of the ship's logbook, engine logbook, radio communication logbook, charts of the affected area, money, and other necessary documents and files of the ship;

d) If the ship needs assistance due to an accident, the captain shall use all means to request other ships for help, but first, he must request assistance from ships flying the flag of Vietnam;

đ) If assisted by another ship, the captain has the duty to command the crew and passengers of his ship to strictly comply with the regulations of the assisting ship;

e) The captain must report fully on maritime incidents occurring with his ship according to the regulations;

8. Duties of the captain when abandoning the ship:

a) When abandoning the ship, the captain must organize the evacuation of people onto lifeboats in priority order: children, pregnant women, sick persons, elderly persons, women, and disabled persons;

b) When abandoning the ship, the captain still bears responsibility for organizing the search and rescue of passengers (if any) and missing crew members, and applying necessary measures to bring the remaining people to safety and back home if the ship is involved in an accident abroad;

c) The captain must be the last person to leave the ship;

9. Duties of the captain when there is a patient on board the ship:u:

a) In case there is a patient on board but the ship does not have sufficient medical capabilities to treat the patient, the captain is responsible for finding every possible way to obtain medical assistance, including bringing the ship into the nearest port and immediately reporting to the port authority and the ship owner or manager, operator;

b) In case the captain falls seriously ill or suffers an unexpected accident, temporarily transfer command of the ship to the chief mate and report to the ship owner, operator for timely measures; at the same time, report to the competent diplomatic agency of Vietnam in that country if the ship is abroad and record this in the ship's logbook;

10. Duties of the captain when entering, leaving the port, anchoring:

a) When the ship operates in territorial waters or anchors at ports and anchorage areas in Vietnam or abroad, the captain must comply with Vietnamese laws, relevant international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a member, and the laws of that country;

b) Before and during the process of the ship arriving, and before and after the process of the ship departing the port, communication between the ship's crew and others is prohibited, except in cases of real necessity;

c) In case disputes arise related to the ship or detained crew members, the captain must promptly file a maritime protest and immediately report to the competent diplomatic agency of Vietnam in that country and the ship owner or manager, operator to take appropriate intervention measures;

d) When the ship is anchored in the port, the captain must organize the application of fire prevention and firefighting measures to ensure the safety of people, the ship, and cargo;

đ) When the ship travels in unfamiliar areas or where visibility is limited or near areas with many obstacles, the captain has the right to require other officers to be present at their positions to perform their duties;

e) Must be present in the bridge when maneuvering the ship into or out of the port or docking or undocking at the pier, anchorage area. When the ship is anchored in areas where maritime safety conditions are not guaranteed, the captain must frequently stay on the ship. If absent from the ship, the captain must request the chief mate to remain on the ship to handle any situations that may arise in a timely manner;

g) Before the captain is absent from the ship, he must give specific instructions to the chief mate or the officer on watch to stay on the ship; for important matters, they must be clearly recorded in the ship's logbook and the officer on watch must be informed of the captain's address and phone number (if available) during the absence;

h) Daily inspection and signing confirmation of the contents of various logbooks as required;

i) At the end of each voyage, the captain must prepare a report to the ship owner, or the ship manager, operator regarding the situation of the voyage and the results of implementing the ship operation plan;

11. Duties of the captain when the ship carries passengers:

Implement necessary measures to ensure absolute safety for passengers, crew, cargo, luggage, and property on the ship; organize survival training, firefighting, and hull repair training for the crew, and guide passengers to familiarize themselves with and use survival equipment, firefighting equipment, and other safety devices;

12. Duties of the captain when receiving a newly built ship:

When receiving a newly built ship, the captain has the duty to organize the detailed handover concerning the ship's hull, machinery, all technical equipment, technical documents, assets, and living utensils. The receipt and handover of the ship must be documented with signatures of both parties. Organize for the crew to become familiar with the ship to quickly put it into safe operation;

13. Duties of the captain when repairing the ship:

a) Approve the repair items prepared by the chief mate and engineer and report to the ship owner for decision;

b) Report to the ship owner for approval of any changes or additions to the repair items if deemed necessary and only make such changes or additions upon the ship owner's consent;

c) During the ship's stay at the repair facility, the captain must apply measures to ensure the safety of the ship and comply with the internal rules of the repair facility; together with the chief mate, engineer, and related parties, inspect the ship's hull, sea valves system, propeller, rudder, and document the current condition of these components. This must also be done again before the ship leaves the repair facility and confirmed by the inspection authority;

d) Organize supervision over the progress, quality of repairs, ensure workplace safety, and organize for the crew to properly carry out self-repair and maintenance work during the ship's repair period.

đ) Upon completion of the ship repair work, each section of the repair and maintenance must be inspected separately to ensure quality and prevent damage to the ship owner's interests.

14. The duty watch of the captain:

a) If there is no third officer position on board, the captain shall take over the watch duties of the third officer;

b) If there is no second officer and third officer positions on board, the duties of these positions shall be carried out by the captain and chief officer according to the captain's assignment.

Article 8. Duties of the Chief Officer

The chief officer is the captain's successor, subject to the direct management and command of the captain. The chief officer has the following responsibilities:

1. Directly organize the management and operation of the ship, serve the crew's living and daily activities, maintain discipline on board; directly manage and command the deck department, service department, and medical department on board; assist the captain in directing the deck officers' work when the ship is not underway. In the absence of the captain, the chief officer shall represent the captain in overseeing the general operations of the ship; upon the captain's authorization, issue orders related to the execution of crew members' duties as stipulated in this Circular;

2. Stand watch from 04:00 to 08:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 daily. When maneuvering the ship into port, out of port, or navigating through narrow channels, the chief officer must be present at the bow of the ship to direct the execution of the captain's orders;

3. Regularly inspect and monitor the implementation of technical safety procedures and labor safety regulations within their area of responsibility;

4. Organize the exploitation and preservation of the hull, deck, cranes, superstructure, cabins, offices, warehouses, machinery systems, and equipment on deck such as cargo holds, anchors, rudders, winches, cranes, mooring ropes, fire-fighting systems, water level gauges, ventilation systems, anti-penetration tools, and life-saving equipment according to operational procedures; promptly report any damages or losses to the captain and propose remedial measures; if the equipment is related to the engine room, notify the chief engineer for appropriate action; the chief engineer to take appropriate corrective actions;

5. Monitor the working hours, arrange compensatory rest for deck crew members; arrange accommodation, work schedules, study time, rest periods, and leisure activities for crew members;

6. Collaborate with the chief engineer to establish and submit to the captain a roster of tasks for crew members to perform during fire, lifeboat, hull penetration, and abandon ship drills; organize at least one drill per month for crew members on fire, lifeboat, hull penetration, and abandon ship; directly command all crew member activities during drills; organize, guide, assist, and check the number of crew members and passengers boarding lifeboats when abandoning the ship, and by all means help the captain protect the ship's logbook, radio logbook, nautical charts, cash, and other necessary documents; regularly inspect life-saving, fire-fighting, and hull penetration equipment and report to the captain for timely corrective measures; regularly conduct inspections of the hull and deck equipment;

7. Maintain records of repairs to deck equipment and check the results of those repairs; plan the supply of technical materials, fresh water, food, and organize the management and use of these supplies when received;

8. Check bilge water tanks, ballast water tanks, and fresh water tanks. When necessary, order the watchkeeping engineer to adjust the pumps to ensure the ship remains balanced; check mooring ropes and areas near the propeller before notifying the engine room to start the engine test run;

9. In the absence of the captain, if there is an urgent situation endangering the ship's safety or upon receiving orders from the Harbor Master or the ship owner, the chief officer is responsible for requesting a pilot to maneuver the ship safely;

10. Supervise cleanliness on board and organize regular health checks for crew members;

11. Before the ship departs from the port, the chief officer must inspect and report to the captain matters related to the voyage such as sealing cargo holds, watertight doors, securing deck equipment and cargo, the number of crew members present, and stowaways; check the steering gear, anchor equipment, sound and light signaling devices, navigation lights, telegraph, and internal communication equipment. At least two hours before departure, the chief officer must provide a detailed report to the captain about the voyage preparation;

12. Organize cargo handling, mail, and package preparation and prepare relevant documents for the captain; report daily to the captain on cargo handling progress and the quantity of cargo loaded/unloaded; before loading/unloading cargo, establish a cargo handling plan according to the captain's requirements to maximize the ship's capacity and tonnage, ensuring compliance with cargo handling and transportation regulations; particularly pay attention to mixed cargo types, multiple ports of discharge, dangerous goods, bulk cargo, deck cargo, and other types of cargo. The cargo handling plan must be approved by the captain before loading onto or unloading from the ship;

13. During cargo handling, the chief officer must be present on board to monitor the progress of cargo loading/unloading; prevent loss, damage, and shortage to ensure accurate quantity and quality of cargo during handover; if absent, report to the captain and delegate monitoring duties to the watchkeeping deck officer but clearly specify the requirements and necessary attention;

14. During cargo loading, check the padding, separation, and ventilation; strictly follow cargo handling procedures, especially for dangerous goods, bulk cargo, and deck cargo; ensure labor safety and machinery/equipment safety for workers on board;

15. Monitor the opening and closing of cargo holds according to technical procedures; personally witness the sealing of cargo holds and check the lead seals according to the transport contract's requirements;

16. When situations arise that affect cargo, all measures must be taken to save the cargo and promptly report to the captain; regularly check the securing of cargo and hatch covers; apply appropriate measures to ensure safety for cargo when the vessel travels in bad weather conditions; carefully inspect the cargo hold before receiving cargo onto the ship and must take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the ship and cargo carried on board.

17. Ensure the loading, unloading, and transportation of dangerous goods, bulk cargo, deck cargo, oversized cargo, extra-long cargo, extra-heavy cargo, and other special types of cargo in accordance with regulations.

18. Organize the reception and service of passengers for passenger ships but without assigning a chief officer for passengers.

19. Develop, organize the implementation, and monitor the execution of plans for the maintenance and upkeep of the deck.

20. Provide professional training for apprentice chief officers and instruct new crew members on the use of life-saving and fire-fighting equipment.

21. Perform other tasks assigned by the captain.

Article 9. Duties of the Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer is directly managed and supervised by the captain. The Chief Engineer has the following duties:

1. Organize the management and operation of labor, implement work schedules, shift rotations, and rest periods for crew members in the engine and electrical departments.

2. Organize the safe and economically efficient operation of all machinery and equipment such as main engines, boilers, refrigeration units, auxiliary engines, electrical machinery, and other power systems according to current procedures and regulations; ensure technical safety in the use, maintenance, repair, and preservation of machinery and systems managed by other departments such as anchor winches, steering gear mechanisms, cargo handling cranes, hoisting systems, piping systems, ventilation systems, and other systems; guide crew members from these departments to operate them correctly according to current procedures and regulations. other propulsion systems according to current procedures and regulations; ensure technical safety in the operation, maintenance, repair, and upkeep of machinery and systems managed by other departments such as the anchor winch, the mechanical part of the steering gear, cargo handling equipment, hoisting systems, piping systems, ventilation systems, and other systems, and guide crew members from these departments to operate them in accordance with current procedures and regulations;

3. Regularly inspect and monitor the implementation of technical safety procedures and labor safety regulations within their area of responsibility;

4. Continuously supervise and monitor the implementation of fire prevention and explosion control rules in the engine room, generator stations, workshops, warehouses, offices, living quarters, and other areas managed by the engine and electrical departments.

5. Upon receiving an alarm signal, direct the crew members of the engine and electrical departments to perform their tasks as prescribed. In case of abandoning the ship, carry and protect the engine logbook and related documents.

6. Daily check the recording and sign off on the engine logbook, fuel oil logbook, and other logs tracking the operation of machinery and equipment managed by the engine and electrical departments.

7. Organize prompt repairs for machinery and equipment failures by crew members of the engine and electrical departments; maintain regular, emergency, and periodic maintenance regimes for machinery and equipment; propose periodic repair plans for machinery and equipment under his responsibility and conduct inspections of repair results; approve budgets for technical supplies and fuel proposed by engineering officers; simultaneously, monitor the use and storage of supplied technical supplies and fuel.

8. Directly control the ship's engine when maneuvering the ship in port, through straits, narrow channels, hazardous areas, or when visibility is limited, or when necessary according to the captain's orders; only leave the engine room or control room (if available) and hand over direct control to the second engineer upon permission from the captain.

9. Promptly and accurately execute the captain's maneuvering orders; if unable to comply due to any reason or delay, the chief engineer must immediately inform the captain to address the issue. In exceptional cases, if executing the captain's order would endanger crew members' lives or damage machinery and equipment, he must immediately inform the captain and only comply with the order when the captain decides to continue it. The captain's order and its execution must be recorded in the ship's logbook and engine logbook.

10. Inspect the preparation of the engine and electrical departments for the voyage and at least two hours before departure, report to the captain about the preparation status of his department.

11. Prepare reports for the ship owner and ship operator regarding the condition of the ship's machinery and equipment as stipulated.

12. During maneuvers within the port, narrow channels, or during sea voyages, if the chief engineer wants to change the operating mode of the engine, other technical equipment, or adjust fuel and fresh water, he must obtain the captain's approval.

13. Anticipate potential difficulties and breakdowns of machinery and equipment and prepare appropriate measures to effectively address them when they occur; simultaneously, report to the captain to proactively handle the situation if necessary.

14. In case of machinery or equipment failure, the chief engineer acts based on his responsibility and experience to resolve the issue and promptly report to the captain about the measures taken and the next course of action.

15. If crew members in the engine and electrical departments cause damage to machinery and equipment, the chief engineer has the authority to stop their work and promptly report this to the captain.

16. When the ship is docked in port, with the captain's approval, the chief engineer may be absent from the ship but must assign tasks to the second engineer and clearly state his contact address and phone number (if available).

17. Upon assuming duties on the ship, the chief engineer must receive and manage all machinery, equipment, fuel, lubricants, tools, assets, technical supplies, and documents belonging to the engine and electrical departments; the quantity and professional capabilities of crew members in the engine and electrical departments. The handover record is made in four copies, each signed by the captain: one copy given to the ship owner, one to the captain, one to the handing-over party, and one to the receiving party.

18. When receiving a newly built ship, a newly purchased ship, or a repaired ship, the chief engineer organizes the acceptance and receipt of the engine and electrical sections.

19. Construct, organize the implementation, and inspect the implementation of the plan for preserving and maintaining machines;

20. The chief engineer shall perform the duty shift in the following cases:

a) If there is no second engineer on board, the chief engineer shall undertake the duty shift;

b) If there is no third engineer on board, the duties of that position shall be undertaken by the chief engineer and the second engineer according to the chief engineer's assignment;

c) If there is no fourth engineer on board, the chief engineer must undertake the duty shift of the fourth engineer;

21. Perform other tasks assigned by the captain.

Article 10. Duties of the Second Engineer

The second engineer is the immediate successor to the chief engineer, subject to the management and direct command of the chief engineer. The second engineer has the following duties:

1. Directly manage and operate the main engine, other machinery and equipment in accordance with technical standards and procedures; regularly carry out preservation and repair of sudden malfunctions of the machinery and equipment under his responsibility;

2. Ensure the technical condition and normal operation of the main engine, propeller shaft system, emergency engine, fresh water distillation equipment, mechanical part of the steering gear, mooring winch, cargo handling equipment, oil-water separator, sewage treatment equipment, ballast water treatment system, automation equipment, tools and equipment for inspection, measurement, testing, as well as other technical equipment serving the machinery and equipment under his responsibility;

3. Develop the work schedule for the engine department; assign duty shifts, maintenance shifts, record attendance, arrange leave and compensatory leave for crew members of the engine and electrical departments;

4. Be present when starting the main engine, engaging the propeller shaft transmission, and other important machinery;

5. Prepare and submit to the chief engineer plans for repairs, maintenance, and spare parts procurement for the main engine and other machinery and equipment under his management, and organize the implementation of repairs according to the approved plan;

6. Receive, store, distribute, adjust, and calculate lubricating oil;

7. Monitor and record technical parameters, items repaired and maintained; manage various technical files and logs of the machinery;

8. Directly organize training and guide professional skills for crew members of the engine and electrical departments;

9. At least three hours before the ship departs from the port, report to the chief engineer about his preparations for the voyage;

10. Guide the professional skills for the trainee second engineer;

11. With the captain's approval, the second engineer may replace the chief engineer if necessary;

12. The second engineer's duty shift is from 04:00 to 08:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 daily;

13. Perform other tasks assigned by the chief engineer;

Article 11. Duties of the Second Officer

The second officer is subject to the management and direct command of the captain during navigation and of the first officer when the ship is not navigating. The second officer has the following duties:

1. Directly responsible for and organize the preservation and maintenance of marine machinery and equipment, nautical charts, and maritime documents and tools on board;

2. Manage the bridge, chart room, and nautical logbook; preserve and correct nautical charts and other maritime documents according to received notifications;

3. Develop the route plan of the voyage and prepare nautical charts and maritime documents for the voyage; check navigational lights, machinery, equipment, and tools within his responsibility;

4. Maintain and ensure the operation of the ship's clock, chronometer, take daily chronometer error, and record the chronometer log;

5. Preserve, check errors, and calibrate marine instruments and equipment on board; manage spare parts and components for replacement of marine machinery and equipment; directly start and stop the gyro compass according to the captain's orders;

6. Develop plans for spare parts procurement, regular and sudden repairs; ensure that marine machinery is always in a normal operating state with high accuracy, while managing and using materials and equipment reasonably;

7. Assist the first officer in monitoring the loading and unloading of cargo according to the diagram approved by the captain;

8. When maneuvering the ship in and out of port, be present at the helm or the position designated by the captain to command the execution of the captain's orders; if necessary, undertake some of the first officer's duties according to the captain's assignment;

9. At least three hours before the ship departs from the port, report to the first officer about his preparations for the voyage;

10. Undertake the duties of the third officer if there is no third officer on board, except for the duty shift which is undertaken by the captain;

11. Guide the professional skills for the trainee second officer;

12. Undertake the duty shift from 00:00 to 04:00 and from 12:00 to 16:00 daily;

13. Perform other tasks assigned by the captain.carry out other tasks assigned by the captain;

Article 12. Duties of the Third Officer

The Third Officer is directly managed and supervised by the Master when the vessel is underway and by the Chief Officer when the vessel is not underway. The Third Officer shall perform the following duties:

1. Directly oversee and organize the maintenance and upkeep of life-saving and fire-fighting equipment such as lifeboats, self-inflating life jackets, life rings, personal life jackets, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and ensure that these tools and equipment are always in a safe and ready-to-use condition in case of emergency situations;

2. Regularly inspect the equipment on lifeboats, develop plans, and periodically replace and supplement tools, fresh water, food, first aid supplies after approval by the Master;

3. Directly oversee administrative and management work on board if there is no dedicated management position on the vessel;

4. Assist the Master in preparing documents for port entry and departure procedures;

5. Assist the Chief Officer in checking and maintaining ship salvage equipment;

6. Assist the Second Officer in maintaining and adjusting navigational equipment, updating nautical charts, and other maritime guidance materials;

7. At least three hours before the vessel departs from the port, report to the Chief Officer about the preparation for the voyage;

8. When maneuvering the vessel into or out of the port, be present in the bridge to execute the Master's orders regarding manual steering, record the logbook, determine the vessel's position, and perform other maritime operations;

9. Provide professional training for the Trainee Third Officer;;

10. Stand watch from 08:00 to 12:00 and from 20:00 to 24:00 daily;

11. Tcarry out other tasks assigned by the captain;

Article 13. Duties of the Third Engineer

The Third Engineer is directly managed and supervised by the Chief Engineer. The Third Engineer shall perform the following duties:

1. Directly manage and operate auxiliary engines, independent air compressors, fuel oil purifiers, lubricating oil purifiers, fuel oil pumps, fuel heating equipment, and other devices. On steam-powered vessels, the Third Engineer is responsible for boilers, associated machinery, and equipment, and directly supervises the firemen's work if there is no dedicated Boilerman position on board;

2. Operate and maintain main engines and other machinery according to technical standards and procedures;

3. Organize the receipt, storage, distribution, adjustment, and calculation of fuel for the vessel;

4. Develop and submit to the Chief Engineer a plan for the repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment under his/her management, and organize the implementation of repairs according to the approved plan;

5. Prepare technical material estimates for machinery and equipment under his/her management and organize the management and use of technical materials in accordance with current regulations;

6. Monitor, record technical parameters, and manage files and documents related to machinery and equipment under his/her responsibility;

7. At least three hours before the vessel departs from the port, report to the Chief Engineer about the preparation for the voyage;

8. Perform the duties of the Fourth Engineer if there is no dedicated Fourth Engineer position on board, except for the watchkeeping duty which is handled by the Chief Engineer;

9. Provide professional training for the Trainee Third Engineer;

10. Stand watch from 00:00 to 04:00 and from 12:00 to 16:00 daily;

11. Perform other tasks assigned by the Chief Engineer.

Article 14. Duties of the Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer is subject to direct management and supervision by the Chief Officer. The Chief Engineer has the following duties:

1. Directly manage and operate the pipeline system, ballast water system, circulating pumps, bilge pumps, and equipment serving these systems; the engine room ventilation system, potable water and sanitation system, auxiliary boilers, lifeboats, independent pumps, alarm systems; in cases where there is no chief engineer position on board, the Chief Engineer is responsible for ensuring the technical operation of refrigeration equipment, air conditioning systems, and air-cooling systems.

2. Operate machinery to ensure their technical condition and operational mode according to current regulations and standards.

3. Develop and submit to the Chief Officer a plan for repairing and maintaining machinery under his/her management, and organize the implementation of repairs according to the approved plan.

4. Forecast technical materials for machinery under his/her management, and organize the management and use of allocated materials in accordance with current regulations.

5. Together with the Second Officer, inspect cargo holds, ballast water, and pipeline systems before and during cargo handling operations.

6. Monitor and record technical parameters, and manage documentation related to machinery under his/her responsibility.

7. At least three hours before the ship departs, report to the Chief Officer about the preparation work for the voyage.

8. Provide professional guidance to trainee engineers on board.

9. Take charge of watch from 08:00 to 12:00 and from 20:00 to 24:00 daily.

10. Perform other tasks assigned by the Chief Officer.

Article 15. Duties of the Passenger Deputy Captain

The Passenger Deputy Captain is subject to direct management and supervision by the Captain. The Passenger Deputy Captain has the following duties:

1. Organize and manage the passenger service department and handle matters related to passenger transportation and luggage on board.

2. Ensure that passenger cabins, clubhouses, rest and entertainment areas, kitchens, storage rooms for passenger service equipment, and living quarters for the passenger service staff are always neat, clean, and tidy; conduct inspections of passenger cabins together with the doctor before receiving passengers.

3. Organize the reception, accommodation, and provision of material and spiritual services for passengers; sell and control tickets; report to the Captain the number of tickets needed at arrival ports.

4. Manage assets under his/her responsibility, develop plans to replenish or replace equipment to ensure sufficient quantity and quality.

5. Regularly monitor order, hygiene, technical safety, labor safety, and fire prevention within his/her area of responsibility.

6. Before the ship receives passengers, check the sealing of watertight doors, securing, and proper placement of items under his/her management.

7. Supervise and monitor the provision of passenger services under his/her responsibility.

8. Oversee food preparation to ensure food safety and correct portion sizes for passengers.

9. Together with the doctor, organize regular health checks for crew members under his/her responsibility; promptly report to the Captain any crew members who do not meet health standards for passenger service.

10. Collect feedback from passengers and report to the Captain to address issues promptly.

11. Safeguard spare keys for passenger cabins as required.

12. Regularly inspect the storage and management of assets and items for passenger service.

13. Develop internal rules for passenger service departments under his/her management, assign tasks to passenger service crew members, and implement these rules after approval by the Captain.

14. Within twenty-four hours after the end of the voyage, submit to the Captain for approval a settlement statement of income and expenditure for the passenger service department, and deliver this report to the ship owner.

Article 16. Duties of Radio Communication Officers

The Radio Communication Officer is directly managed and supervised by the Master. The duties of the Radio Communication Officer include the following:

1. Directly managing and operating the ship's radio communication machinery and equipment according to established procedures and regulations; managing and supervising the work of radio communication personnel.

2. Ensuring the technical condition and normal operation mode of the ship's radio communication machinery and equipment; regularly inspecting the technical condition and certificates of the radio communication machinery and equipment and promptly reporting to the Master; promptly repairing any malfunctions of the radio communication machinery and equipment and ensuring their normal operation.

3. Ensuring uninterrupted radio communication for the ship in accordance with maritime communication rules; maintaining the correct reception regime for weather forecast bulletins and maritime notifications.

4. Being thoroughly familiar with the technical condition of machinery and equipment within the ship's radio communication system; preparing and submitting to the Master plans for repair and maintenance of the radio communication machinery and equipment and organizing the implementation of approved plans.

5. Preparing technical material estimates for the ship's radio communication system and being responsible for the management and use of allocated technical materials.

6. In case the ship encounters an accident or receives an emergency signal from the automatic alarm device, immediately report to the Master.

7. Monitoring and recording various types of radio communication logs; assigning shifts, planning work schedules and rest periods for radio communication personnel.

8. Upon assuming duties on board, receiving detailed information about radio communication machinery and equipment, telephones, lifeboat communication devices, technical materials, technical documentation, and various types of radio communication logs and minutes.

9. The Radio Communication Officer operates on duty according to the operational mode of the ship's radio communication system.

10. If there is no designated Radio Communication Officer position on board, the radio communication personnel will assume the duties of the Radio Communication Officer; if neither the Radio Communication Officer nor the radio communication personnel positions are assigned, the ship's radio communication duties will be delegated by the Master to crew members with appropriate professional qualifications.

Article 17. Duties of Electrical Engineering Officers

The Electrical Engineering Officer is directly managed and supervised by the Chief Engineer. The duties of the Electrical Engineering Officer include the following:

1. Supervising and directing the work of electrical technicians.

2. Directly managing and operating all electrical systems and equipment on board the ship, such as generators, remote control automation systems, internal communication systems, signaling systems, power sources for marine machinery and other equipment, computer networks; directly overseeing electric motors, inverters, emergency generators, navigation lights, batteries.

3. Ensuring the technical condition and normal operation mode of electrical machinery and equipment on board the ship.

4. Preparing and submitting to the Chief Engineer plans for repair and maintenance of the ship's electrical machinery and equipment and organizing their implementation.

5. Preparing technical material estimates for the ship's electrical machinery and equipment and being responsible for the management and use of allocated technical materials.

6. Monitoring the operational mode of electrical machinery and equipment on board the ship.

Must be present in the main switchboard area when the ship enters or leaves port, navigates through narrow channels, under conditions of limited visibility, when pumps start working, cargo cranes prepare to operate, or when selecting operating modes for generators.

Managing technical documentation related to the ship's electrical section; monitoring and recording various types of electrical logs.

Assigning tasks, planning work schedules and rest periods for electrical technicians.

At least three hours before the ship departs from the port, report to the Chief Engineer on the preparation of the electrical department for the voyage.

If only the position of Electrical Engineering Officer is assigned on board, all electrical duties of the ship will be assumed by the Electrical Engineering Officer; if only the position of electrical technician is assigned, all electrical duties of the ship will be assumed by the electrical technician. If neither the Electrical Engineering Officer nor the electrical technician positions are assigned on board, all electrical duties of the ship will be delegated by the Chief Engineer.

Article 18. Duties of Marine Security Officers

Marine Security Officers are management officers appointed by the shipowner, subject to direct management and command by the Master. The duties of Marine Security Officers are as follows:

1. Regularly inspect to ensure the implementation of security measures according to the approved security plan; supervise the implementation of the ship's security plan, including any modifications and supplements to that plan;

2. Coordinate with other crew members and port security officers to ensure security during cargo transportation and supply activities on board the ship;

3. Propose modifications and supplements to the ship's security plan;

4. Report to the company's Marine Security Officer when discovering deficiencies and non-compliance in the ship's security plan and implement corrective measures;

5. Always enhance awareness of security on board; organize security training for personnel on board; report to the company's Marine Security Officer about any security incidents on board; 6. Coordinate with the company's Marine Security Officer and the port security officer at the destination port to implement the ship's security plan;

7. Regularly inspect to ensure that security equipment on board is in good working condition, maintained, and calibrated appropriately. Article 19. Duties of Refrigeration Engineers

Refrigeration Engineers are subject to direct management and command by the Chief Engineer. The duties of Refrigeration Engineers are as follows:

1. Ensure the technical condition and normal operation of refrigeration machinery and equipment on board; stand watch according to the operating schedule of the refrigeration system on board;

2. Directly manage and operate the machine capacity, ensuring the technical condition and operational mode of refrigeration machinery and equipment, air cooling systems, and temperature control systems on board in accordance with current procedures and regulations;

3. Supervise and manage the work of refrigeration mechanics;

4. Draft and submit to the Chief Engineer plans for repairing and maintaining refrigeration machinery and equipment; organize the implementation of approved plans;

5. Prepare technical material estimates and be responsible for managing and using allocated technical materials;

6. Monitor and record the refrigeration machine operation log; assign shift schedules, draft work and rest plans for refrigeration mechanics;

7. Manage technical documentation for the ship's refrigeration system;

8. In cases where there is no Refrigeration Engineer, the duties of the Refrigeration Engineer shall be performed by the Second Engineer.

Article 20. Duties of Boatswains

Boatswains are subject to direct management and command by the Chief Officer. The duties of Boatswains are as follows:

1. Assign and manage the work of deckhands;

2. Inspect and monitor the preservation of the hull, various ropes, and equipment of mooring systems, cranes, life-saving, fire-fighting, and salvage equipment, stores for tools and technical materials, and other assets managed by the deck department;

3. Inspect order and cleanliness on deck; guide deckhands to comply with safety regulations on board, especially when performing high-altitude, over-the-side, and hold work, and when entering and leaving ports;

4. Draft and submit to the Chief Officer daily work plans for the deck department and organize the effective implementation of these tasks;

5. Monitor and inspect deck pipelines, sounding pipes in cargo holds, sea chest valves, and water system valves;

6. Draft and submit to the Chief Officer technical material estimates for the deck department and organize the reasonable management and use of allocated materials;

7. Draft and submit to the Chief Officer plans for repairing and maintaining winches, cranes, blocks, capstans, ropes, and other deck equipment;

8. Manage and use machinery, equipment, and tools under their jurisdiction in accordance with technical procedures;

9. Before the ship leaves the port, organize the secure lashing of tools, equipment, and cargo on deck, close cargo holds, cover hatchways, wedge down, and tighten lashings in accordance with regulations;

10. Regularly inspect the technical condition of life-saving, fire-fighting, and salvage equipment and other equipment;

11. When encountering bad weather during navigation, inspect cargo, materials on deck and in stores, lifeboats, watertight doors, and if necessary, reinforce and secure them again;

12. When loading or unloading oversized and overweight cargo, prepare lifting equipment and directly control the lifting operations under the supervision of the Chief Officer or the on-duty deck officer;

13. When the ship approaches or leaves a pier or enters dangerous areas, the Boatswain must be present at the bow to perform duties;

14. Assume the duties of the Assistant Boatswain when there is no Assistant Boatswain position on board;

15. As required, take over shifts or relief watches as assigned by the Chief Officer.

14. Assume the duties of the chief mate when there is no chief mate position on board;

15. When necessary, assume watchkeeping or supervisory duties as assigned by the first mate;

Article 21. Duties of the Second Officer

The Second Officer is subject to direct management and command by the First Officer. The Second Officer shall perform the following duties:

1. Manage warehouses, maintain cargo hold covers, tarpaulins covering machinery and equipment on deck, other tools and assets belonging to the deck department; receive, store, issue, and recover materials.

2. Maintain firefighting equipment and devices, except for fire-fighting equipment in the engine room.

3. Be responsible for ropes, mix paints, operate machinery on deck such as winches, cranes, and monitor lighting systems including floodlights, mast lights, and navigation lights.

4. Carry out carpentry work, rigging, and control lifeboats.

5. Directly receive fresh water, inspect and measure fresh water, ballast water, bilge water, and record daily monitoring data.

6. When entering or leaving port, the Second Officer must be present at the helm to perform assigned tasks.

7. As necessary, the Second Officer participates in watchkeeping and supervises watches according to the assignment of the Chief Officer.

Article 22. Duties of the Seaman

The Seaman is subject to direct management and command by the First Officer. The Seaman shall perform the following duties:

1. Perform watchkeeping duties, comply with orders from the deck officer on watch.

2. Maintain and service the hull, deck, and other machinery and equipment as assigned by the First Officer or the Second Officer.

3. Monitor cargo loading and unloading, promptly identify damaged, wet packages, improper handling, and report to the deck officer on watch for action. Understand operations when entering or leaving port, opening and closing cargo holds, rigging, operating cranes, measuring water levels, maintaining, and receiving pilots on board and off, and be familiar with flag and light signals.

4. Understand the structure, characteristics, technical features of the vessel, designated locations for firefighting, lifesaving, and salvage equipment, and properly maintain and use them according to regulations.

5. Strictly adhere to ship rules regarding working hours, living conditions, security, order, and hygiene.

6. If trained and instructed in diving techniques, when performing underwater tasks assigned by the Chief Officer or the First Officer, ensure safety and complete the assigned tasks.

7. Perform other tasks assigned by the First Officer.

Article 23. Duties of the Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer is subject to direct management and command by the Second Engineer. The Chief Engineer shall perform the following duties:

1. Maintain and repair machinery and equipment according to the requirements and guidance of the Chief Engineer and engineering officers.

2. Manage and skillfully use machinery and tools provided for the engineering department.

3. Implement industrial hygiene practices for machinery and equipment in the engineering department.

4. When necessary, perform watchkeeping duties for the engineer according to the assignment of the Second Engineer.

Article 24. Duties of the Watch Engineer

The Watch Engineer is subject to direct management and command by the Second Engineer and direct assignment by the engineering officer on watch. The Watch Engineer shall perform the following duties:

1. Perform maintenance, servicing, and repairs of machinery and equipment, clean the engine room and workplace, receive spare parts and materials as assigned by the Second Engineer; carry out watchkeeping duties according to the requirements of the engineering officer on watch.

2. Use machinery, firefighting, lifesaving, anti-toxic, heat-resistant, smoke-proof, seawater filtration, oil filtration equipment, and prevent environmental pollution according to procedures and standards.

3. Perform other tasks assigned by the Second Engineer.

Article 25. Duties of the Electrical Technician

The Electrical Technician is directly managed and supervised by the Electrical Officer or the Duty Engineer if there is no Electrical Officer on board the vessel. The Electrical Technician shall perform the following duties:

1. Ensuring the operation of electrical machinery and other electrical equipment according to technical procedures. Ensuring continuous power supply for the entire vessel. Promptly reporting any abnormal operation of electrical machinery and equipment to the Duty Engineer or the Electrical Officer for timely remedial measures;

2. Ensuring the correct operation of generators, emergency generators, electric cranes, winches, auxiliary diesel engines, emergency batteries, automatic boiler ignition systems, shipboard fans, and other electrical equipment; and the lighting system on board;

3. Maintaining automatic steering gear equipment, telephone communication devices, and repairing and replacing domestic electrical equipment under the guidance of the Electrical Officer.

Article 26. Duties of the Radio Operator

The Radio Operator is directly managed and supervised by the Radio Officer. The Radio Operator shall perform the following duties:

1. Ensuring communication between the vessel and other vessels and shore radio stations; receiving distress signals, maritime notices, and weather forecasts;

2. Managing the communication system, sound receivers, television transmitters, and film projectors on board.

Article 27. Duties of the Chief Steward

The Chief Steward is directly managed and supervised by the Second Officer. The Chief Steward shall perform the following duties:

1. Organizing the management and operation of the service department on board. Planning work and rest schedules for service crew members, receiving and distributing their wages;

2. Preparing and submitting to the Second Officer a budget for purchasing food supplies for the vessel's daily needs and organizing the purchase, storage, and reasonable use of these supplies;

3. Inspecting, monitoring, and planning reports to the Second Officer regarding the preparation for replacement or supplementation of kitchenware, dining room equipment, cabin furniture, office equipment, and club facilities. Managing and using such equipment and other assets under his responsibility;

4. Handling financial matters of the vessel and performing financial transactions as prescribed;

5. Assisting the Captain in transactions and organizing receptions and banquets on board;

6. Assisting the Third Officer in tasks related to obtaining permission for the vessel to enter and leave ports;

7. After each voyage, compiling a comprehensive report to the Captain on the settlement of income and expenditure of the vessel;

8. At least three hours before the vessel departs from the port, reporting to the Second Officer about the readiness of his department for the voyage;

9. In cases where there is no Chief Steward position, the Chief Steward duties will be assumed by the Third Officer.

Article 28. Duties of the Medical Doctor or Health Care Personnel

The Medical Doctor or Health Care Personnel is directly managed and supervised by the Second Officer. The Medical Doctor or Health Care Personnel shall perform the following duties:

1. Overseeing health and hygiene on board, monitoring the health of crew members, passengers, and others on board, providing medical care and treatment, and recommending rest or hospitalization when necessary;

2. Receiving and treating patients on board; directly inspecting and reporting to the Second Officer the hygiene conditions of crew and passenger cabins, dining rooms, clubs, and other public areas; reporting to the Second Officer on patient treatment progress;

3. Checking the quality of food, fresh water used on board, and conducting inspections to ensure hygiene standards in the galley, dining room, and hotel facilities. Participating in the preparation of daily menus for crew members and passengers;

4. Regularly organizing health check-ups for crew members, reporting to the Captain those with infectious diseases, drug use, and monitoring environmental pollution prevention measures;

5. Managing the vaccination records of crew members;

6. Preparing supplementary and replacement budgets for medical equipment and medicines; monthly and quarterly inventory checks and reporting to the Captain; properly storing and maintaining medicines and medical equipment as required;

7. Guiding crew members on first aid methods in case of accidents and basic knowledge on disease prevention during summer, winter, tropical, and equatorial regions;

8. Before each voyage, checking the health certificates of crew members, vaccination records, sanitary exemption certificates for seafarers, and animal inoculation certificates (if applicable);

9. Implementing Vietnamese laws and international conventions on health and labor protection on board;

10. Caring for childbirth and preserving deceased persons' remains on board;

11. At least three hours before the vessel departs from the port, reporting to the Second Officer about the readiness of his department for the voyage;

12. After each voyage, compiling a report on the health status of crew members. If necessary, preparing a list and reporting to the Captain and ship owner about those who need health checks;

13. Managing the sick bay, operating theater, isolation ward, patient rooms, medical equipment, and medications. If there is no Medical Doctor or Health Care Personnel on board, the medical duties on board will be assigned by the Captain. the medical duties on board shall be assigned by the captain;

Article 29. Duties of the Steward

The steward is directly managed and supervised by the Chief Officer. The steward has the following duties:

1. To undertake service work on board the ship; in cases where there are two stewards or more, specific duties shall be determined by the Chief Officer.

2. The steward is responsible for serving the dining room of the ship, cleaning the cabins of the captain, officers, working rooms, club rooms, bathrooms, and toilets.

3. To wash and iron tablecloths, sheets, quilts, mats, mosquito nets, and to prepare plans for purchasing supplementary replacements for these items to be submitted for approval by the Chief Officer.

Article 30. Duties of the Chef

The chef is directly managed and supervised by the Purser. The chef has the following duties:

1. To organize and carry out kitchen tasks and directly prepare daily meals for crew members and passengers.

2. To organize the storage and use of food supplies for the daily life of crew members and passengers.

3. To receive and distribute food supplies to the Messman for preparing daily meals and to prepare menus ensuring correct quantities and hygiene standards.

4. To manage the food storage, kitchen utensils, and equipment. To organize repairs for damaged items and to prepare plans for purchasing supplementary replacements for these items.

5. To maintain cleanliness in the kitchen and dining room equipment.

Article 31. Duties of the Messman

The messman is directly managed and supervised by the Chef. The messman has the following duties:

1. To perform kitchen tasks and ensure that crew members have the correct meal regimen.

2. In cases where the position of Chef is not assigned, the Chef's duties shall be undertaken by the Messman. On ships without positions for both Chef and Messman, the Chief Officer will assign crew members to serve.

Article 32. Duties of the Passenger Service Team Leader

The Passenger Service Team Leader is directly managed and supervised by the Passenger Officer. The Passenger Service Team Leader has the following duties:

1. To directly oversee passenger cabin service staff; to establish and submit to the Passenger Officer a work schedule and rest plan for passenger cabin service staff and cabin rules.

2. To be present at the stairway entrance when passengers board or disembark the ship to welcome or see off passengers and hand over to cabin service staff for room assignments.

3. After the ship leaves the port, to inspect passenger cabins, record the number of available beds, and report to the Passenger Officer.

4. To inform passengers about ship regulations, permitted facilities and items, and how to use and maintain them.

5. Daily to check and urge passenger cabin service staff to fulfill their duties properly and remind passengers to comply with ship regulations.

6. To receive and distribute amenities and items in passenger cabins.

7. Together with the Passenger Officer to resolve violations of regulations, damage to ship property, and incidents involving passengers and cabin service staff.

8. To prepare records and settle compensation payments for damages caused by passengers to amenities and items.

9. Before the ship leaves the port, to report to the Passenger Officer on preparations for the voyage according to assigned duties.

Article 33. Duties of Passenger Service Attendants

Passenger service attendants are directly managed and supervised by the passenger cabin supervisor. The duties of passenger service attendants include the following:

1. Serving passengers, managing assets and amenities for passengers under their responsibility.

2. Cleaning passenger cabins, bathrooms, and corridors daily.

3. Receiving passengers boarding the ship, guiding and assisting passengers in checking into their cabins according to ticket numbers; handing over living amenities and keys to passengers, instructing passengers on how to use life jackets and evacuation routes when there is an emergency evacuation signal.

4. Before passengers leave the ship, inspecting the amenities in the passenger cabins. If they are complete and undamaged, hand over the receipt to the passengers and collect the keys back; if damage or loss is found, invite the passengers to wait for the decision of the passenger chief officer and the cabin supervisor.

5. After passengers have left the ship, immediately carry out cleaning, replace items in the passenger cabins, and prepare to receive new passengers.

6. Frequently being present in the assigned passenger cabin area to promptly assist passengers when needed.

7. Reporting immediately to the cabin supervisor about any damaged amenities in the passenger cabins so that appropriate measures can be taken.

8. In case of strong winds and large waves, closing the watertight doors and water-tight doors in the passenger cabins under their responsibility.

9. Performing other tasks as assigned by the cabin supervisor after obtaining approval from the passenger chief officer.

Article 34. Duties of the Cabin Supervisor

The cabin supervisor is directly managed and supervised by the passenger chief officer. The duties of the cabin supervisor include the following:

1. Directing and overseeing passenger cabin attendants, managing dining room and lounge equipment.

2. Distributing dining room and lounge equipment to dining and lounge attendants.

3. Properly preserving dining room and lounge equipment.

4. Planning purchases, replacements, and repairs for dining room and lounge equipment.

5. Directly serving banquets on board together with dining and lounge attendants.

6. Preparing and submitting work and rest schedules for dining and lounge attendants to the passenger chief officer for approval.

7. Preparing compensation records for passengers who damage or lose property under their responsibility; reporting immediately to the passenger chief officer if necessary.

Article 35. Duties of Dining and Lounge Attendants

Dining and lounge attendants are directly managed and supervised by the cabin supervisor. The duties of dining and lounge attendants include the following:

1. Serving passengers according to menu requirements.

2. Managing dining rooms, lounges, and equipment under their responsibility.

3. Carrying out cleaning of dining rooms, lounges, and equipment.

Article 36. Duties of Baggage Storage Manager

The baggage storage manager is directly managed and supervised by the passenger chief officer. The duties of the baggage storage manager include the following:

1. Managing passenger assets, facilities, public warehouses, and rooms.

2. Receiving and delivering luggage for passengers traveling on the ship.

3. Issuing, receiving, and managing wooden items, tools, and other amenities provided for passenger cabins, dining rooms, lounges, bathrooms, and clubs.

4. Maintaining asset records and other documents under their management.

5. Organizing repairs for damaged items under their responsibility.

6. Handing over and storing passenger luggage; compensating for any damage or loss of passenger luggage according to regulations.

7. Performing other tasks assigned by the passenger chief officer.

Article 37. Duties of laundry workers are

Laundry workers are directly managed and supervised by the passenger service team leader. The duties of laundry workers include the following:

1. Washing and ironing fabric items such as quilts, pillowcases, sheets, tablecloths, face towels, and bath towels for passengers;

2. Managing and using washing machines and ironing boards; if they are damaged, reporting to the passenger service team leader for repair or replacement plans;

3. Preparing material and item estimates for laundry and ironing purposes;

4. Performing other tasks assigned by the passenger service team leader or the deputy captain for passenger services.

Article 38. Duties of the accountant

The accountant is directly managed and supervised by the deputy captain for passenger services. The duties of the accountant include the following:

1. Settling and finalizing revenues and expenditures related to passengers;

2. Preparing regular or emergency purchase estimates for supplies, cultural products, foodstuffs, and other goods for passenger and crew services to be submitted to the deputy captain for passenger services for approval by the ship captain;

3. Issuing receipts and records for supplies, cultural products, foodstuffs, and other goods stored in passenger and crew warehouses according to orders from the deputy captain for passenger services;

4. Issuing receipts for ticket sales, food and beverage sales, and other charges;

5. Managing ledgers and financial documents related to passenger revenues and expenditures;

6. Finalizing revenues and expenditures reports to be submitted to the deputy captain for passenger services after each voyage.

Article 39. Duties of the cashier

The cashier is directly managed and supervised by the deputy captain for passenger services. The duties of the cashier include the following:

1. Managing funds related to passengers;

2. Receiving and disbursing funds according to accounting receipts and payment vouchers;

3. Safeguarding financial documents and ledgers regarding receipts and payments;

4. Managing and completing procedures for issuing and receiving various types of tickets on board;

5. Performing other tasks assigned by the deputy captain for passenger services.

Article 40. Duties of sales personnel

Sales personnel are directly managed and supervised by the deputy captain for passenger services. The duties of sales personnel include the following:

1. Selling goods to serve passengers;

2. Maintaining records, files, and documents to manage assets and goods sold to passengers in accordance with regulations;

3. Estimating purchases of goods to sell to passengers and submitting these estimates for approval by the deputy captain for passenger services;

4. Accepting and delivering goods to the ship ensuring quality and quantity;

5. Selling goods at prices approved by the deputy captain for passenger services and depositing sales proceeds with the ship's cashier as required;

6. Ensuring that the onboard sales counter remains clean and attractive;

7. Performing other tasks assigned by the deputy captain for passenger services.

Article 41. Duties of ticket sellers

Ticket sellers are designated by the deputy captain for passenger services after obtaining the ship captain's approval. The duties of ticket sellers include the following:

1. Daily receipt of various tickets sold to passengers, bearing responsibility for any losses caused by themselves;

2. Completing settlement procedures and depositing cash with the ship's cashier at the end of each day;

3. Maintaining order and cleanliness at the ticket selling location;

4. Performing other tasks assigned by the deputy captain for passenger services.

Article 42. Duties of security officers

Security officers are directly managed and supervised by the deputy captain for passenger services. The duties of security officers include the following:

1. Ensuring order and safety for passengers when boarding and disembarking the ship and during their stay on board;

2. Promptly addressing and preventing illegal actions that disrupt order and safety on board;

3. Conducting on-the-spot inspections and preparing reports for immediate offenses committed on board. Preparing files for offenses discovered by passengers;

4. Participating in preparing reports for cases where passengers suffer accidents, deaths on board, or deaths related to passengers;

5. Managing individuals temporarily detained on board and transferring them to port authorities along with necessary documents; if the ship is in foreign waters and the detained individual is a Vietnamese citizen, they may be held until returning home upon the captain's order;

6. If there are multiple security officers on board, the deputy captain for passenger services designates a team leader to oversee them collectively.

Article 43. Duties of the refrigeration mechanic

The refrigeration mechanic is directly managed and supervised by the refrigeration officer. The refrigeration mechanic shall perform the following duties:

1. Maintain, service, and operate the machinery and equipment of the cooling system on the ship, such as cargo holds, food storage rooms, air conditioning systems, temperature control systems, cooling systems, and other systems in accordance with procedures and regulations;

2. Repair the refrigeration machinery and equipment on the ship according to the assignment and guidance of the refrigeration officer or the second engineer.

Article 44. Duties of the pumpman

The pumpman is directly managed and supervised by the second engineer. The pumpman shall perform the following duties:

1. Carry out oil pumping or water pumping into cargo holds according to the orders of the chief mate and be subject to supervision and guidance on operations by the duty refrigeration officer;

2. Clean and maintain the pipeline and equipment serving for various types of pumps in accordance with technical procedures and operate machinery and equipment under their management proficiently; repair such machinery and equipment according to the guidance of the chief engineer, second engineer, or refrigeration officer;

3. Use firefighting equipment in the pump room, promptly identify and handle any malfunctions of machinery and equipment under their responsibility to rectify them or report to the chief engineer, second engineer, or refrigeration officer for resolution.

Section 3

WATCHKEEPING ON BOARD A VESSEL

Article 45. Watchkeeping by Crew Members

1. The master is responsible for organizing 24-hour watchkeeping on board. The chief mate, the passenger officer, and the chief engineer have the responsibility to assist the master in checking the implementation of watchkeeping on board within their respective departments as prescribed.

2. Watchkeeping is a duty of crew members and must be maintained appropriately and effectively to ensure safety, security, and environmental protection. Each crew member's watch is divided into sea watches and shore watches:

a) Sea watch duration is four hours, and each day they work two watches separated by eight hours; in cases where time zones change, the sea watch duration is determined by the master;

b) Shore watch duration is set by the master based on specific conditions when the vessel is at anchor.

3. Crew members on watch shall perform the following duties:

a) Shall not leave their post or hand over their watch to another person without permission from the master, chief engineer, or duty officer;

b) When an alarm sounds, they must continue to fulfill their watchkeeping duties until someone else takes over and they can move to the designated location according to the emergency task allocation chart;

c) During the watch, they must record all relevant information in the logbook of their department as required;

d) Crew members are strictly prohibited from engaging in activities unrelated to their watchkeeping duties.

4. Handover of watches must take place at the watch station. The duty officer must take over the watch at least fifteen minutes before the watch begins. Other crew members must take over the watch at least five minutes before it starts. The crew member handing over the watch must inform the relieving crew member at least fifteen minutes before the watch begins. The relieving crew member may only take over the watch after fully assessing the condition of the vessel. In cases where the vessel is performing any action to avoid danger, the handover of the watch may only occur once that action has been completed.

If the crew member handing over the watch believes that the relieving crew member lacks the capability to effectively perform the watchkeeping duties, they shall not hand over the watch and must immediately report this to the master.

5. Based on the technical condition and operational circumstances of the vessel, the master shall specify the watchkeeping regime for crew members in the radio communication department, refrigeration department, and electrical engineering department of the vessel.

Article 46. Uniforms during duty shifts

1. Crew members on duty must wear uniforms. When on shore duty, they must wear an arm band on the left arm and name badge. The duty arm band consists of three horizontal stripes, each stripe being 15 mm wide with the total width of the band being 45 mm. The colors of the duty arm band are specified as follows:

a) For officers on duty, the colors are dark blue - white - dark blue;

b) For other crew members on duty, the colors are red - white - red.

2. The ship owner is responsible for providing uniforms and duty arm bands.

Article 47. Authority to permit persons to board the vessel

1. The captain, deck officer on duty, and security officer have the authority to permit persons to board the vessel.

2. The captain has the authority to permit persons to enter the bridge, chart room, and radio room but must comply with the vessel's security plan.

3. The captain and chief engineer have the authority to permit persons to enter the engine room and other areas under the engine department management but must comply with the vessel's security plan.

Article 48. Duties of the Deck Officer on Duty

1. The deck officer on duty is directly commanded by the captain. When the vessel is berthed at a port or anchorage area, if the captain is absent, the deck officer on duty is commanded by the first mate; no one other than the captain may cancel or change the deck officer's duty shift; the deck officer on duty may not leave their post without permission from the captain or first mate when authorized by the captain.

2. The deck officer on duty has the following general duties:

a) To manage the duty shift to ensure safety and security for people, the vessel, cargo; maintain order and cleanliness on board and prevent environmental pollution;

b) To observe and monitor the situation around the vessel; apply necessary measures to ensure safety, security, and prevent environmental pollution for the vessel; c) When there are threats to safety, security, or environmental pollution of the vessel, immediately issue alarm signals and take reasonable measures to eliminate these threats; report promptly to the captain or first mate in all cases;

d) Maintain the voyage charts with the vessel's course until it reaches the port; in case of maritime accidents, take every measure to protect the vessel until the accident investigation is completed; đ) To handle communication information; monitor and process maritime notifications received in a timely manner to ensure safety and security for the vessel's journey.

3. The deck officer on duty at sea has the following duties:

a) To be thoroughly informed about the vessel's operations and conditions related to the voyage area to proactively take over the duty shift; conduct handover procedures according to regulations;

b) Upon taking over the shift, check the vessel's position on the chart, verify the speedometer index, compass heading, compass deviation, and navigation lights; check the rudder alignment using both the gyrocompass and magnetic compass, compare the indexes;

c) During the sea duty shift, the deck officer on duty must always be present in the bridge,

only entering the chart room briefly to work on charts after assigning the lookout and observation tasks to the crew member on duty; determine the vessel's position; continuously monitor the operation of marine equipment and navigation lights;

d) After each hour and each change in course, compare the magnetic compass index with the gyrocompass, maintain the rudder alignment according to the set course, and re-determine the vessel's position; đ) In case of fog, heavy rain, snow, or other weather phenomena that limit visibility, promptly report to the captain and notify the engine officer on duty;

e) Use marine equipment, check the fog signal device, arrange lookouts forward, adjust the clock in the bridge and engine room; determine the vessel's position and act according to the captain's orders. If visibility suddenly decreases and the captain has not yet arrived at the bridge, the deck officer on duty may reduce the vessel's speed and sound the fog signal;

f) In rough seas, take necessary measures to ensure the safety of the vessel's journey; g) Check the bilge water level in cargo holds and record the results in the logbook; if the water level is abnormal, promptly report to the captain and first mate to take appropriate action; bilge water levels must be checked at least once at the end of each sea duty shift;h) Ensure absolute safety when welcoming and seeing off pilots; i) Pay special attention to the safety of lifeboats, cargo, equipment carried on deck, and hatch covers;

k) In case of a person falling into the water, sound a general alarm and take appropriate rescue measures, and immediately inform the captain;

l) When the vessel is anchored, determine the anchoring position, detect and address promptly any drifting, broken anchor, and report immediately to the captain;

m) Prepare necessary reports, perform bridge inspection checklists, and record maritime activities in the logbook. Monitor and record meteorological and hydrographic conditions.

4. The deck officer on duty during shore duty has the following duties:

a) Receive information from the previous duty shift about the overall situation on the vessel, cargo handling, repairs, number of crew members on board, and other necessary tasks related to ensuring vessel safety; when the vessel is anchored, monitor weather conditions, surroundings, check the anchoring position using all methods, and use necessary measures to prevent drifting;

b) When the vessel is docked, pay attention to monitoring the vessel's draft, mooring lines, mouse guards, gangways, and strictly follow the port rules; monitor cargo loading and unloading, and promptly report to the captain or first mate any developments that could cause damage to cargo or affect vessel safety; ensure gangways have safety nets, edges have lifebuoys, and sufficient lighting at night; responsible for implementing appropriate security measures;

c) Before testing the main engine, observe obstacles behind the stern; when testing the engine, pay attention to the mooring lines.

4. The deck watch officer on shore watch duty shall have the following responsibilities:

a) Must receive information from the previous watch about the general situation on board, cargo operations, repairs, the number of crew members present on board, and other necessary matters related to ensuring the safety of the vessel; when the vessel is at anchor, monitor weather conditions, surrounding circumstances, verify the anchoring position using all available methods, and take necessary measures to prevent drifting;

b) When the vessel is docked at a port, pay attention to monitoring the draft of the vessel, mooring lines, mouse guards, gangways, and strictly comply with port regulations; observe cargo loading and unloading activities and promptly report to the captain or first mate any developments that could cause damage to the cargo or affect the safety of the vessel; ensure that gangways are equipped with safety nets, lifebuoys are placed next to gangways, and sufficient lighting is provided at night; responsible for implementing appropriate security measures;

c) Before testing the main engine, carefully observe obstacles behind the stern; during engine testing, pay attention to the mooring lines;

d) When encountering bad weather and receiving storm warnings, appropriate measures must be taken to protect the vessel from storms.

đ) In cases where there is an alarm on board but the captain and chief officer are absent, the duty deck officer must directly command the crew members present on board to take appropriate measures to deal with emergency situations. If nearby vessels issue alarms, communication must be established and assistance organized if required at their request; the situation on board must be reported to the captain during his absence.

e) Supervise the daily work and repairs carried out by the department under their responsibility; inspect and monitor compliance with fire prevention, firefighting, and labor safety regulations on board.

g) At night, organize patrols and observe the surrounding conditions of the vessel.

h) Record the list of personnel going ashore, returning from shore, supervise the number of crew members allowed to go ashore, and report to the captain the number of personnel returning late.

i) During rest periods when many crew members are ashore, the duty deck officer must organize the remaining personnel on board to be ready to ensure the safety of the vessel.

k) When people from shore come aboard for work, the duty deck officer must organize the monitoring of their work process.

l) When the vessel is not engaged in cargo operations, at night, the duty deck officer may rest in their own cabin but must still wear duty attire.

m) Monitor the opening and closing of cargo holds, covering with tarpaulins and ventilation systems, securing, loading, and unloading of cargo.

Article 49. Duties of the Duty Engineer Officer

1. The duty engineer officer is directly commanded by the chief engineer; they are fully responsible for their actions related to the operation of machinery and equipment according to technical procedures, ensuring the normal operation of all machinery and equipment. The duty engineer officer may not leave their shift without the consent of the chief engineer or the second engineer authorized by the chief engineer.

2. The duties of the duty engineer officer include the following:

a) Directing the machinists, electrical officers, and electricians; continuously monitoring the operating conditions of machines, equipment, furnaces, and boilers according to technical procedures.

b) Organizing the execution of the watchkeeping duties in the engine room and boiler room, ensuring order and industrial hygiene in the engine room.

c) Ensuring that machinery within the engine department operates normally and safely, and promptly addressing any incidents.

d) Monitoring the repair work of shore-based personnel working under their responsibility, ensuring labor safety, preventing fires and explosions, maintaining technical safety for the vessel, and preventing environmental pollution.

đ) Monitoring fuel consumption and the use of technical supplies on board.

e) Conducting oil and water level measurements in tanks; pumping bilge water, ballast water, and fuel to adjust the vessel as required by the duty deck officer; when discharging various types of waste water, it must be done in accordance with regulations.

g) During navigation, the duty engineer officer must strictly follow orders from the bridge issued by the captain or the duty deck officer.

h) The duty engineer officer does not have the authority to arbitrarily change the operating mode of the main engine or other engines. In necessary cases, if changes to the operating mode or stopping the engines are required, the duty engineer officer must inform the duty deck officer and the chief engineer beforehand.

i) In case of incidents or threats to human life, the duty engineer officer has the right to stop the main engine or other engines and immediately report to the duty deck officer and the chief engineer. If it is deemed that stopping the main engine or other engines poses a serious threat to the vessel, the captain may require the duty engineer officer to continue operating these machines and bear responsibility for any consequences. In this case, the duty engineer officer must record the captain's order in the engine logbook, and the captain must record it in the ship's logbook.

k) In the absence of the chief engineer, the duty engineer officer does not have the authority to start the main engine except in truly necessary circumstances, but only with the captain's order.

l) Shift handover cannot be conducted while the vessel is maneuvering alongside a pier or during accident prevention or incident handling, unless approved by the chief engineer.

m) Upon shift handover, the incoming duty engineer officer is responsible for independently checking the operational status of machinery and equipment, operating modes, and technical condition of machinery and equipment. The outgoing duty engineer officer is responsible for handing over specific details and providing necessary recommendations to the incoming duty engineer officer.

n) Prepare necessary reports, perform engine room inspection checklists, and record engine room activities in the engine logbook.

Article 50. Duties of the On-duty Seaman

1. The on-duty seaman is directly commanded by the on-duty deck officer; the handover and takeover of duty by the on-duty seaman is decided by the on-duty deck officer.

2. The on-duty seaman shall perform the following duties:

a) Shall not leave their post and must conscientiously complete assigned tasks; upon taking over the watch, they must thoroughly understand the situation of the previous watch.

b) Upon taking over the helm, the on-duty seaman must accept the rudder position and maintain the set course. During steering, they must frequently check the rudder position and monitor the operation of the steering system; promptly report any deviations in the rudder position and malfunctions in the steering system to the on-duty deck officer.

c) When the vessel is berthed at a port, they must be present at the location designated by the on-duty deck officer and execute orders from the on-duty deck officer.

d) During the watch, they must inspect, issue cards, and record the names of passengers boarding and disembarking the vessel in the logbook; they may not allow people to board the vessel without the approval of the on-duty deck officer. In case of accidents or incidents, they must promptly sound the alarm and act according to the orders of the on-duty deck officer.

e) Monitor cargo loading and unloading operations, promptly identify damaged, wet packages, improper handling, and report these issues to the on-duty deck officer for appropriate action.

f) Turn on and off lights and signal lights painted on the smokestack at night during the vessel's anchorage or berthing period; hoist and lower flags as prescribed; patrol as required by the on-duty deck officer.

Article 51. Duties of the On-duty Engineer

1. The on-duty engineer is directly commanded by the on-duty engine room officer; the handover and takeover of duty by the on-duty engineer is decided by the on-duty engine room officer.

2. The on-duty engineer shall perform the following duties:

a) Be fully aware of the technical condition and operating regime of machinery and equipment in the engine room.

b) Accept from the outgoing engineer the status of machinery and equipment operation and any recommendations or orders from the previous watch that still need to be carried out; report to the on-duty engine room officer about the takeover of the watch.

c) During the watch, the engineer must ensure the normal operation of the assigned machinery and equipment; follow the correct procedures for operating machinery and equipment and maintain industrial hygiene in the engine room.

d) Upon discovering abnormal operation of machinery or equipment malfunctions, take appropriate measures to address them and promptly inform the on-duty engine room officer so that corrective actions can be taken.

Article 52. Duties of the On-duty Electrical Technician

1. The on-duty electrical technician is directly commanded by the on-duty engine room officer or the on-duty electrical officer if such a position is established on the vessel. If the position of on-duty electrical technician is not established on the vessel, the on-duty electrical watch will be performed by the electrical officer.

2. The on-duty electrical technician shall perform the following duties:

a) Accept the handover regarding the operational status of electrical and electronic machinery and equipment.

b) Report to the on-duty engine room officer or the on-duty electrical officer about the takeover of the watch.

c) Ensure the operating regime of electrical machinery and other electrical equipment in accordance with technical procedures.

d) Shall not switch on or off main circuit breakers without permission from the electrical officer or the on-duty engine room officer.

e) Ensure continuous power supply to the vessel; when detecting abnormal operation of electrical machinery and equipment, promptly report to the on-duty engine room officer or the electrical officer to take corrective measures.

Article 53. Duties of radio watch personnel

1. Radio watch personnel shall be directly commanded by the radio officer and the watch officer according to the maritime radio communication system. If the number of radio personnel on board does not meet the requirement, the radio officer must take the watch. In case there is no position for radio personnel on board, the radio officer shall undertake the watch duty.

2. The duties of radio watch personnel include the following:

a) Ensuring communication between the ship and other ships and shore-based radio stations. Receiving distress signals, maritime notices, and weather forecasts;

b) Upon taking over the watch, they must be familiar with the operational status of all radio equipment, especially automatic distress signal transceivers;

c) Implementing communication in accordance with international maritime radio communication rules;

d) When receiving a distress signal, immediately report to the bridge watch officer and the radio officer; simultaneously, execute the captain's orders in compliance with international maritime radio communication rules;

đ) Only transmit alarm signals and urgent distress signals upon the captain's order or that of a person authorized by the captain;

e) Strictly comply with regulations when calling or responding on distress and emergency frequencies. During communication, no personal conversations or work unrelated to the watch are permitted;

g) Must strictly adhere to frequency usage requirements as requested by coastal or monitoring stations;

h) At least once daily, synchronize the time in the radio room and the bridge with time broadcast stations;

i) Shall not leave the watch station or engage in personal activities during the watch. Strictly forbidden to allow unauthorized persons or crew members without assigned duties into the radio room. Radio personnel may only leave their watch position with the captain's or radio officer's approval;

k) All outgoing telegrams must be approved by the captain;

l) If the ship's transmitter has high power or communication is more favorable, assist and support other stations when requested;

m) Maintain absolute secrecy regarding telegrams and contents of radio transactions. Only the captain has the right to inspect telegram contents;

n) Report any malfunctions or abnormal operation of communication equipment to the radio officer; simultaneously, quickly implement measures to repair and fix them;

o) At least one hour before handing over the watch, check the operation of communication equipment and record the results in the radio watch log;

p) Record the radio log; check and mark the inspection list.

Section 4

 ENSURE SAFETY AND REST REGIMES ON VIETNAMESE SHIPS

Article 54. Assignment of Tasks and Guidance in Emergency Situations

1. On board, an Emergency Duty Assignment Chart must be established upon fire alarms, man-overboard alerts, hull breach alerts, and abandon ship orders (hereinafter referred to as the Assignment Chart).

2. The Assignment Chart must clearly specify:

a) General alarm signals, fire alarm signals, life-saving alarm signals, hull breach alarm signals, and abandon ship alarm signals;

b) The general duties of each crew member and passenger upon receiving an alarm;

c) The assembly points and specific duties of each crew member and passenger upon receiving an alarm for each type of alarm on board;

d) Members of command teams, engine room teams, response teams, support teams, security teams, medical teams, and order maintenance teams (on passenger ships), and the duties of each team upon receiving an alarm;

đ) Substitute positions for key roles and individuals responsible for operating life-saving and firefighting equipment;

3. The Assignment Chart must be posted in corridors, bridge, engine control rooms, and areas where crew members and passengers gather.

Article 55. Personal Responsibility Card During Alarm

1. In the crew and passenger cabins, the "Personal Responsibility Card During Alarm" must be posted in a conspicuous place, written in both Vietnamese and English.

2. The Personal Responsibility Card During Alarm shall include the following contents:

a) Types of alarm signals;

b) Concentration location and individual tasks to be performed for each type of alarm;

c) Lifeboat number and seating position within the lifeboat.

Article 56. Alarm Signals on Board

1. Alarm signals must be issued using the ship's electric bell and public address system. A short ring lasts from 01 to 02 seconds; a long ring lasts from 04 to 06 seconds; intervals between rings last from 02 to 04 seconds.

2. Electric bell alarm signals are defined as follows:

a) General alarm consists of seven short rings followed by one long ring repeated several times (...-----);

b) Fire alarm consists of a continuous ringing lasting 15 to 20 seconds, repeated multiple times (--------);

c) Man overboard alarm consists of three long rings repeated 03 to 04 times (----- ----- -----);

d) Hull breach alarm consists of five long rings repeated 02 to 03 times (----- ----- ----- ----- -----);

đ) Abandon ship alarm consists of six short rings followed by one long ring, repeated multiple times (...-----);

e) All clear signal consists of a continuous ringing lasting 15 to 20 seconds (--------).

3. After the bell signal, verbal announcements must follow. For fire and hull breach alarms, the location of the incident must be clearly announced. If the ship's electric bell or public address system is damaged or unavailable, any device producing similar sound can be used to alert the crew and passengers.

Article 57. Drills and Exercises

1. To ensure crew members perform their duties effectively during emergencies, the captain must organize drills for each type of alarm according to regulations. For passenger ships, the captain must also organize guidance for passengers to familiarize themselves with different types of alarms.

2. Only the captain has the authority to order alarm drills on board. Drill records must be kept in the ship's logbook and training record book.

Article 58. Use of Lifeboats

1. Lifeboats may only be used for ensuring safety for people, passengers, crew, and for man overboard or abandon ship drills.

2. Lifeboats must be inspected, maintained, and promptly replaced or supplemented with equipment as required.

3. Lifeboats are commanded by the chief officer or a deck officer. Crew members assigned to operate lifeboats must hold a lifeboat driving certificate. Lifeboats may leave the ship only upon the captain's order. Upon returning to the ship, the deck officer in command must report the results to the captain.

Article 59. Living Conditions of Crew Members on Vietnamese Ships

1. The schedule of living conditions on board is set by the captain. In necessary cases, the captain may adjust this schedule to suit work requirements and weather conditions in different seasons and regions.

2. Crew members must strictly adhere to the ship's living regulations and properly implement hygiene and disease prevention measures. Crew cabins, workrooms, clubhouses, corridors, stairways, bathrooms, toilets, and other public areas must always be clean, tidy, and orderly.

3. Gambling, drug use, and other unhealthy activities are strictly prohibited on board. 28 ||| 4. Alcohol consumption is limited, with blood alcohol concentration not exceeding 0.05% or 0.25mg/l breath alcohol concentration;

5. On-board recreational activities may only continue until 22:00, except in special cases as determined by the captain.

5. On-board recreational activities can only be conducted until 10 PM; special cases shall be determined by the captain.

Article 60. Use of Cabins and Rooms on Board

1. Based on actual conditions, the captain shall specify the management and use of cabins and rooms on board. The first officer is responsible for arranging and organizing crew cabins.

2. It is strictly prohibited to store explosives, weapons, flammable materials, dangerous goods, and other banned items in crew cabins, workrooms, and public rooms.

3. One key to each cabin shall be given to the occupant, and the second key shall be numbered and managed by the first officer. Crew members and passengers are not allowed to change their cabin keys.

4. Crew members assigned the task of managing workrooms, clubs, and other public rooms must be responsible for protecting the property within those rooms and cabins.

5. When there is an alarm, procedures, or a ship-wide inspection, crew cabins and public rooms must not be locked.

Article 61. Meal Times and Dining Rooms on Board

1. Daily meal times on board are determined by the captain. Officers eat in the officers' dining room, while other crew members eat in the crew dining room. Crew members must eat at the designated time, except those on duty. Crew members entering the dining room must wear clean clothes and cannot wear shorts or t-shirts. During meals, loud talking is prohibited, and hygiene must be maintained in the dining room. Only sick crew members, upon the doctor's or medical staff's recommendation, may eat in their own cabins.

2. The dining room must always be clean, with tablecloths and necessary utensils on the tables. Dining room servers must wear uniforms.

Article 62. Overtime Rest, Shore Leave, and Vacation for Crew Members

1. Overtime rest and shore leave for crew members are decided by the captain. When necessary, the captain has the right to designate crew members to remain on board to perform duties.

2. When going ashore or returning to the ship, crew members must report to the officer in charge of the watch.

3. Before the ship departs from the port, crew members must be present on the ship at the time specified by the captain.

4. When the ship is at the pier, at least one-third of the total number of crew members from each department must be present on the ship. When the ship is anchored in anchorage areas, at least two-thirds of the total number of crew members from each department must be present on the ship. When the ship is at the port or in anchorage areas, the captain has the authority to assign watches to any crew member based on the ship's requirements.

5. Each crew member before leaving the ship for vacation or transferring to another ship or changing positions must hand over responsibilities to the replacement through a signed handover document confirmed by the relevant officer regarding the following contents:

a) Tasks being performed;

b) Machinery, equipment, tools under their responsibility and necessary instructions;

c) Ship-provided assets and supplies, including cabin keys.

Chapter III

REGISTRATION OF CREW MEMBERS, ISSUANCE OF CREW BOOKS AND CREW PASSPORTS

Section 1

REGISTRATION OF CREW MEMBERS AND ISSUANCE OF CREW BOOKS

Article 63. Registration of Crew Members and Issuance of Crew Books

1. Vietnamese crew members working on Vietnamese ships, foreign ships, and foreign crew members working on Vietnamese ships must register with the crew registration authority and obtain a Crew Book.

2. The crew registration authority includes the Vietnam Maritime Administration Branches in Haiphong City and Ho Chi Minh City; the Port Maritime Authorities: Quang Ninh, Thai Binh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Thua Thien Hue, Da Nang, Qui Nhon, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Can Tho, Kien Giang, Ca Mau, Dong Thap.

The Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration decides to supplement the Port Maritime Authority to carry out crew registration when necessary.

3. The crew registration authority is responsible for:

a) Establishing and managing the Crew Registration Book;

b) Registering crew members in the Crew Registration Book;

c) Issuing Crew Books to crew members;

d) Inspecting the management and use of Crew Books.

Article 64. Responsibilities of the Person Receiving the Seafarer's Book

Each seafarer shall only be issued one Seafarer's Book. The seafarer is responsible for maintaining and preserving the Seafarer's Book; they must not erase, delete, or alter the contents within the Seafarer's Book, nor lend it to others or use it contrary to the provisions of the law.

Article 65. Responsibilities of Ship Owners and Ship Masters

1. The ship owner is responsible for assigning seafarer positions on the ship and confirming the assignment of seafarer positions accurately and completely in the Seafarer's Book, and shall be liable for their confirmation.

2. The ship master is responsible for confirming the time of boarding and leaving the ship for seafarers in the Seafarer's Book, and shall be liable for their confirmation.

Article 66. Procedures for Registering and Issuing the Seafarer's Book

1. Organizations and individuals submit one (01) set of application documents directly or through the postal system to one of the registration authorities specified in Clause 2 of Article 63 of this Circular. The application includes:

a) A completed application form for issuing the Seafarer's Book according to the model provided Seal Registration Certificate in this Circular;

b) A copy with the original or certified copy: Certificate of Professional Competence for positions within the minimum safe manning framework; certified copy of the occupational certificate and Basic Safety Training Certificate for positions outside the minimum safe manning framework such as service, catering, electrician, chief engineer, and positions on dredging vessels such as dredger operator, mechanical repairer;

c) Two color photographs measuring 4x6 cm, similar to identification card photos taken within six months.

2. The seafarer registration authority receives, examines the application, and processes it as follows:

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is complete, a receipt will be issued and a result will be promised within the prescribed period; if the application is incomplete, it will be returned immediately and the organization or individual will be guided to complete the application;

b) In cases where the application is received through the postal system, if the application is incomplete within the prescribed period, the seafarer registration authority must respond in writing within the latest two (02) working days from the date of receiving the application and specify the reasons.

3. Within three (03) working days from the date of receiving the complete application, the seafarer registration authority will enter the Seafarer Registration Book and issue the Seafarer's Book according to the model provided in Appendix I of this Circular. If the Seafarer's Book is not issued, the seafarer registration authority must respond in writing within the prescribed period and specify the reasons.

4. The fee for issuing the Seafarer's Book is implemented according to the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 67. Procedures for Reissuing the Seafarer's Book

1. The Seafarer's Book is reissued to seafarers who have already been issued a Seafarer's Book but have lost it, damaged it, exhausted the pages, or have incorrect information.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one (01) set of reissue application documents directly or through the postal system to the seafarer registration authority that initially issued the Seafarer's Book. The reissue application documents include:

a) A completed application form for reissuing the Seafarer's Book according to the model provided Seal Registration Certificate in this Circular;

in this Circular;

b) The previously issued Seafarer's Book for cases of damage or incorrect information;

c) Legal documents proving corrections for cases of incorrect information;

d) Two color photographs measuring 4x6 cm, similar to identification card photos taken within six months.

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is complete, a receipt will be issued and a result will be promised within the prescribed period; if the application is incomplete, it will be returned immediately and the organization or individual will be guided to complete the application;

b) In cases where the application is received through the postal system, if the application is incomplete within the prescribed period, the seafarer registration authority must respond in writing within the latest two (02) working days from the date of receiving the application and specify the reasons.

3. The seafarer registration authority receives, examines the application, and processes it as follows:

4. Within three (03) working days from the date of receiving the complete application, the seafarer registration authority will enter the Seafarer Registration Book and issue the Seafarer's Book according to the model provided in Appendix I of this Circular. If the Seafarer's Book is not reissued, the seafarer registration authority must respond in writing within the prescribed period and specify the reasons.

Article 68. Revocation of Seafarer's Logbook

The seafarer's logbook shall be revoked when there is a violation of any of the following cases:

a) Forgery or alteration, erasure, distortion of the contents in the seafarer's logbook;

b) Buying, renting, lending the seafarer's logbook;

c) Intentionally misreporting information or using falsified documents in the application for the seafarer's logbook.

Section 2

SEAFARER'S PASSPORT

Article 69. Issuance of Seafarer's Passport

1. The seafarer's passport shall be issued to Vietnamese seafarers working on international shipping routes and is valid for use for departure and entry aboard ships.

2. The seafarer's passport is issued by the Vietnam Maritime Administration according to the model set out in Appendix III of this Circular. The seafarer's passport has a validity period not exceeding five (5) years from the date of issuance or reissuance.

Article 70. Responsibilities of the Person Receiving the Seafarer's Passport

1. Using the seafarer's passport for its intended purpose and in accordance with the provisions of the law.

2. Carefully preserving and maintaining it, without erasing, altering the contents within the seafarer's passport, and not allowing others to use it.

Article 71. Procedures for Issuing the Seafarer's Passport

1. Organizations and individuals submit one (1) set of application files directly at the Vietnam Maritime Administration or send through the postal system. The application file for the seafarer's passport includes:

a) A form requesting the issuance of a seafarer's passport according to the model at REGULATIONS ON THE CERTIFICATE DESIGN FOR OUTSTANDING RURAL INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS in this Circular;

b) A copy of the Identity Card;

c) Two (2) color photographs measuring 4x6 cm, similar to the identity card, taken within six (6) months.

2. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives, examines the application file, and processes as follows:

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is complete, a receipt will be issued and a result will be promised within the prescribed period; if the application is incomplete, it will be returned immediately and the organization or individual will be guided to complete the application;

b) In the case of receiving the application file through the postal system, if the application file is incomplete as prescribed, within the shortest time of two (2) working days from the date of receipt of the application file, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

3. Within three (3) working days from the date of receiving the complete application file as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration implements the issuance of the seafarer's passport according to the model set out in Appendix III of this Circular. In the case of not issuing the seafarer's passport, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing within the time limit stipulated in this clause and clearly state the reasons.

4. The fee for issuing the seafarer's passport is implemented according to the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 72. Procedures for Reissuing the Seafarer's Passport

1. Seafarers who have been issued a seafarer's passport but lost it, damaged it, had incorrect information, run out of pages, or expired can have it reissued.

2. Organizations and individuals submit one (1) set of application files directly at the Vietnam Maritime Administration or send through the postal system. The application file for reissuing the seafarer's passport includes:

a) A form requesting the reissuance of a seafarer's passport according to the model at Appendix V in this Circular;

b) The previously issued seafarer's passport for cases where it is damaged, has incorrect information, has run out of pages, or has expired;

b) The previously issued Seafarer's Book for cases of damage or incorrect information;

c) Legal documents proving corrections for cases of incorrect information;

3. The Vietnam Maritime Administration receives, examines the application file, and processes as follows:

a) In cases where the application is submitted directly, if the application is complete, a receipt will be issued and a result will be promised within the prescribed period; if the application is incomplete, it will be returned immediately and the organization or individual will be guided to complete the application;

b) In the case of receiving the application file through the postal system, if the application file is incomplete as prescribed, within the shortest time of two (2) working days from the date of receipt of the application file, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing and clearly state the reasons.

4. Within three (3) working days from the date of receiving the complete application file as prescribed, the Vietnam Maritime Administration implements the reissuance of the seafarer's passport according to the model specified in Appendix III of this Circular. In the case of not reissuing the seafarer's passport, the Vietnam Maritime Administration must respond in writing within the time limit stipulated in this clause and clearly state the reasons.

5. The fee for reissuing the seafarer's passport is implemented according to the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 73. Revocation of Seafarer Passports

A seafarer passport that has been issued shall be revoked if there is a violation of any of the following cases:

a) Forgery or alteration, erasure, distortion of the content of the seafarer passport;

b) Buying, renting, lending a seafarer passport;

c) Intentionally misreporting information or using falsified documents in the application dossier for a seafarer passport.

Chapter IV

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 74. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from May 20, 2012 and replaces Decision No. 29/2008/QĐ-BGTVT dated December 16, 2008 of the Minister of Transport on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships.

2. Five appendices are promulgated along with this Circular:

a) Appendix I: sample of the Seafarer's Logbook;

b) Appendix II: sample of the Application Form for Issuance of the Seafarer's Logbook;

c) Appendix III: sample of the Seafarer's Passport;

d) Appendix IV: sample of the Application Form for Issuance of the Seafarer's Passport;

e) Appendix V: sample of the Application Form for Reissuance of the Seafarer's Passport.

3. Seafarer passports issued under Decision No. 65/2005/QĐ-BGTVT dated November 30, 2005 of the Minister of Transport on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships and Decision No. 29/2008/QĐ-BGTVT dated December 16, 2008 of the Minister of Transport on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships remain valid for use until the date of expiry stated in such seafarer passports.

4. Seafarer logbooks issued under Decision No. 65/2005/QĐ-BGTVT dated November 30, 2005 of the Minister of Transport on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships and Decision No. 29/2008/QĐ-BGTVT dated December 16, 2008 of the Minister of Transport on the title, duties according to the title of seafarers and registration of seafarers working on Vietnamese ships remain valid for use until they are reissued or replaced with new logbooks.

5. The Vietnam Maritime Administration organizes the printing and issuance of seafarer logbooks and seafarer passports in accordance with the provisions of this Circular.

Article 75. Organization of Implementation

1. The Vietnam Maritime Administration is responsible for organizing the implementation of this Circular in coordination with relevant agencies.

2. The Director of the Ministry’s Office, the Inspector General of the Ministry, Heads of Departments, the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration, heads of agencies, organizations, and individuals concerned are responsible for implementing this Circular./.