Crew qualifications and matrix verification
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether every seafarer holds valid, flag-accepted certification and endorsements for the rank and tanker duties assigned, and whether the crew matrix accurately represents experience and service.
Ready onboard
0/7 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1Select one officer and trace every qualification required for the assigned role.
Match safe-manning capacity, CoC, flag endorsement, tanker training, medical fitness and any specialist duty.
2How was this certificate authenticated?
Show the issuing-administration verification or company validation record, not only a photocopy.
3What happens if a certificate expires before the planned relief port?
Escalate early and arrange renewal or lawful dispensation; do not rely on voyage delay or informal company acceptance.
4How is sea-service information in the crew matrix checked?
Reconcile joining records, discharge books, company history and rank dates before submission.
5Can a junior officer perform a senior watchkeeping role during shortage?
Only within certificate capacity, safe manning, company authority and flag requirements; a routine shortage cannot create qualification.
Where an observation may arise
A required certificate, endorsement or medical is expired, missing or not flag accepted.
Experience or qualification data do not match personnel records.
Certificate authenticity has not been checked.
Assigned duties exceed a seafarer's capacity or limitation.
A dispensation is absent, expired or its conditions are breached.
A document will expire during the voyage without a controlled plan.
Master's practical note
Sample the matrix against original records for one senior and one junior officer. A polished matrix is weak evidence if dates were copied forward without verification.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Exact certification depends on flag, capacity, tanker type, propulsion, GMDSS area and specialist equipment. The flag endorsement and Minimum Safe Manning Document control.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 3.1.1
- STCW Convention and Code, as amended
- MLC 2006, as amended
- SOLAS Chapter V regulation 14
Last reviewed: 2026-09-10