An engine room rating who assists engineers with machinery operation, maintenance, and watchkeeping duties.
In practice
The motorman grade sits above the wiper in the engine room rating hierarchy and requires demonstrated mechanical aptitude and practical experience. Under STCW III/4, ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine room must meet minimum competency standards covering use of internal communications, fire-fighting equipment, and machinery space procedures. Many motormen hold a certificate of proficiency as Able Seafarer Engine, which STCW III/5 establishes for ratings who have completed specified sea service and training. Under MLC 2006, motormen are entitled to proper rest periods, adequate accommodation, and access to medical care on the same basis as all other seafarers.
Regulatory detail & full definition
A motorman is an engine department rating who assists engineers with the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of propulsion machinery, auxiliary systems, and deck machinery. The motorman typically stands engine room watches alongside the engineer officer of the watch, monitoring running machinery parameters, taking and recording gauge readings, and responding to routine alarms. When not on watch, the motorman carries out planned maintenance tasks under the direction of the second engineer or fitter.
The motorman grade sits above the wiper in the engine room rating hierarchy and requires demonstrated mechanical aptitude and practical experience. Under STCW III/4, ratings forming part of a watch in a manned engine room must meet minimum competency standards covering use of internal communications, fire-fighting equipment, and machinery space procedures. Many motormen hold a certificate of proficiency as Able Seafarer Engine, which STCW III/5 establishes for ratings who have completed specified sea service and training. Under MLC 2006, motormen are entitled to proper rest periods, adequate accommodation, and access to medical care on the same basis as all other seafarers.