Pilot integration into the bridge team
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the pilot or equivalent local adviser is incorporated into a functioning bridge team while the Master and OOW retain situational awareness and responsibility, and whether plans, records and interviews demonstrate that the procedure is applied during real voyages rather than completed only as paperwork.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1What is the operational purpose of pilot integration into the bridge team?
The pilot or equivalent local adviser is incorporated into a functioning bridge team while the master and oow retain situational awareness and responsibility.
2Show how the procedure was applied on the last voyage.
Use the latest pilotage plan, exchange checklist, bridge log, passage records and any amendment to show how the pilot was briefed and monitored.
3Which decision requires the Master's judgement?
The Master decides whether the pilot's plan and conditions are acceptable and must intervene when safety margins or shared understanding are lost.
4What happens if the planned control becomes invalid?
Clarify immediately, re-establish the common plan, challenge unsafe action, take direct control if necessary and record material deviation or incident.
5How are changes communicated and recorded?
Brief the affected bridge and machinery personnel, amend the controlled plan or record, obtain required approval and retain the reason and revised limits.
Where an observation may arise
Records exist but the bridge team cannot relate them to the actual voyage or operation.
A material change is not reassessed, approved, briefed or recorded.
A signed exchange form exists but the actual plan or limits were not discussed.
Bridge officers stop monitoring because the pilot is directing navigation.
Material pilot or tug communication is not understood by the bridge team.
Master's practical note
Ask what would cause the Master to intervene on the next pilotage leg. Effective integration requires an agreed point of challenge before the vessel reaches the limit.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: A pilot advises and conducts local navigation but does not displace the Master's command or the bridge team's duty to monitor. Local law may define additional pilot responsibilities.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 4.3.3
- IMO Resolution A.960(23)
- STCW Code section A-VIII/2
- ICS Bridge Procedures Guide
Last reviewed: 2026-09-11
