The most junior engine room rating who cleans machinery spaces and assists with basic maintenance tasks.
In practice
The wiper role is developmental: it exposes trainees to the environment and culture of the engine room, allowing them to develop mechanical awareness and acquire practical skills under the direct supervision of experienced motormen, fitters, and engineers. Under MLC 2006, wipers must be at least 16 years of age and, if under 18, may not be assigned night work without specific exemption. Progression from wiper to motorman or oiler requires accumulated sea service and may be formalised through vocational training programmes recognised by the flag state administration. In many maritime nations, the wiper grade is the starting point for an engineering rating career path leading ultimately to chief petty officer or even officer qualifications.
Regulatory detail & full definition
A wiper is the most junior engine department rating, occupying the entry-level position in the engineering department. The primary duties of a wiper are cleaning machinery spaces, wiping down machinery exteriors, cleaning bilges and tank tops, and assisting senior ratings and engineers with basic maintenance tasks. No formal engineering qualification is required, though STCW basic safety training (VI/1) is mandatory for all seafarers before they join a vessel in any capacity.
The wiper role is developmental: it exposes trainees to the environment and culture of the engine room, allowing them to develop mechanical awareness and acquire practical skills under the direct supervision of experienced motormen, fitters, and engineers. Under MLC 2006, wipers must be at least 16 years of age and, if under 18, may not be assigned night work without specific exemption. Progression from wiper to motorman or oiler requires accumulated sea service and may be formalised through vocational training programmes recognised by the flag state administration. In many maritime nations, the wiper grade is the starting point for an engineering rating career path leading ultimately to chief petty officer or even officer qualifications.