200217 Why we need a Lookout

Why we need a Lookout
Report No. 200217

Own vessel was sailing between Japan and Australia and passing various islands in the Timor Sea. On the 2000 - 2359 watch, the 3rd Officer was alone on the bridge. Suddenly he sighted a flashing light twice within a short space of time on the port bow and very close to the ship. Without hesitation, he put the wheel hard to starboard and called the Master. The flashing light had stopped. Nothing was detected on radar or found visually. Small boats are frequently encountered in this area without any lights.

I believe that many Officers have experiences such as this because on many ships at night the evening 8 - 12 watch is kept with no lookout posted in order to save overtime. I have been told that there are many maintenance jobs to be done and the overtime will cost more if a lookout is posted. The Master has said that the OOW is free to call a seaman or quartermaster to the bridge at any time without first seeking permission from the Master or C/O. It was also stated that the Master is normally awake during that watch so he can also be called if required. On the occasion above, when the Master arrived on the bridge, the incident was already over. The regulations require that a lookout is kept from sunset to sunrise but this is not done in most cases despite filling in the log books to that effect. How can this situation be justified?

Which is more important, doing maintenance jobs or neglecting safe navigation, safety of life, property and cargo? What is the point in having to call a seaman to the bridge? By the time he arrives, the incident will probably be over, even if it isn't, he needs time to adjust his eyes to the darkness. Does the owner or manager prefer to save a little money? Would the insurance companies pay out in the event of an accident when the investigation reveals there was no lookout posted?

An accident may occur at any time and anywhere. Prevention is better than cure!