An Ordinary Seaman (OS) plays a crucial role in the maritime industry. As an entry-level position, this job provides hands-on experience for individuals aspiring to build a career at sea. The duties of an OS are diverse, ranging from maintenance work to assisting senior crew members.
This topic explores the responsibilities of an Ordinary Seaman, the required skills, and how to advance in the maritime industry.
What Is an Ordinary Seaman?
An Ordinary Seaman is a junior crew member in the deck department of a vessel. This position serves as a stepping stone toward becoming an Able Seaman (AB) or other higher-ranking maritime roles.
Key Responsibilities of an Ordinary Seaman
The primary role of an OS is to support the efficient operation of the ship. This includes maintenance, navigation assistance, safety procedures, and general deck work.
Maintenance and Cleaning Duties
A significant portion of an OS’s job involves keeping the vessel clean and well-maintained.
1. Deck Maintenance
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Painting and varnishing surfaces to prevent rust
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Greasing and lubricating mechanical parts
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Repairing minor damages on the deck and ship structures
2. Cleaning Tasks
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Scrubbing decks and washing surfaces
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Removing dirt, salt, and rust buildup
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Keeping equipment and tools organized
3. Cargo Handling Assistance
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Helping with the loading and unloading of cargo
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Securing cargo to prevent shifting during the voyage
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Inspecting cargo hold areas for cleanliness and safety
Navigational Support
Although the primary navigation responsibilities fall on officers and the captain, an OS assists in various ways.
4. Standing Watch
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Assisting in lookout duties for obstacles, vessels, and weather changes
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Reporting unusual sightings to the officer on duty
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Ensuring the deck remains secure and operational
5. Assisting with Mooring and Anchoring
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Handling mooring ropes and securing the ship at the dock
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Assisting in anchoring procedures
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Keeping mooring lines and anchor equipment in good condition
Safety and Emergency Duties
Ships operate in unpredictable conditions, making safety a top priority. An OS plays a key role in emergency response and safety drills.
6. Fire Safety and Drills
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Participating in fire drills and emergency training
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Assisting in handling fire extinguishers and other safety equipment
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Reporting fire hazards or unsafe conditions
7. Lifeboat and Life Raft Maintenance
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Ensuring lifeboats and rafts are properly stored and maintained
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Participating in abandon-ship drills
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Assisting passengers and crew in emergency evacuations
8. General Safety Inspections
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Checking safety gear such as life vests, helmets, and harnesses
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Following safety protocols to prevent accidents
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Keeping passageways clear and free of obstacles
Communication and Teamwork
Effective communication is essential on a ship, as every crew member must work together to ensure smooth operations.
9. Following Orders from Senior Crew Members
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Taking instructions from the Bosun, Chief Mate, and Captain
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Reporting progress and completing assigned tasks efficiently
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Learning and adapting to shipboard routines
10. Assisting in Training New Crew Members
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Helping new seafarers understand safety procedures
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Teaching basic deck duties and maintenance tasks
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Encouraging teamwork and collaboration among crew members
Life as an Ordinary Seaman
Being an OS is demanding but also rewarding. Here’s what to expect on the job.
Work Schedule
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Typical Shifts: 8-12 hours per day
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Contract Duration: 6-9 months at sea
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Rest Hours: Strictly regulated by international maritime laws
Living Conditions
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Shared cabins with fellow crew members
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Meals provided on board
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Limited internet and communication access while at sea
Career Growth Opportunities
An OS can advance in their career by gaining experience and obtaining certifications.
Promotion Path
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Ordinary Seaman (OS)
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Able Seaman (AB)
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Bosun (Boatswain)
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Chief Mate
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Captain (Master Mariner)
Training and Certifications
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STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers)
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Basic Safety Training
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Navigational Watch Training
Skills Required to Become an Ordinary Seaman
Success in this role requires a combination of physical, technical, and interpersonal skills.
Physical and Technical Skills
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Physical stamina: Ability to handle long hours and tough working conditions
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Mechanical aptitude: Understanding basic ship maintenance and repair
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Basic navigation knowledge: Assisting officers with lookout duties
Soft Skills
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Teamwork: Working alongside diverse crew members
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Communication: Following instructions and reporting issues
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Problem-solving: Quickly handling unexpected challenges
Challenges of Working as an Ordinary Seaman
While the job provides valuable experience, it also comes with difficulties.
1. Long Periods Away from Home
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Contracts last several months, leading to time away from family
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Limited personal space and privacy on board
2. Physically Demanding Work
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Heavy lifting and exposure to harsh weather conditions
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Risk of injuries and accidents
3. Adapting to Shipboard Life
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Adjusting to a structured and disciplined environment
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Dealing with different cultures and languages among crew members
The duties and responsibilities of an Ordinary Seaman are essential for the smooth operation of a ship. From deck maintenance and navigation support to safety procedures and teamwork, an OS plays a key role in the maritime industry.
For those interested in a career at sea, starting as an OS provides the necessary experience and training to advance to higher positions. With dedication, skill development, and experience, an OS can progress to Able Seaman, Bosun, and beyond.