Communication Protocols and Videocalls for Marine Engineers: Navigating Shipboard Regulations

As a marine engineer working on a ship, managing your communications with the outside world entails adherence to strict regulations and protocols. One common question among marine engineers pertains to the need for permission to make a videocall from the ship. This article will address these concerns and explore the reasons why consent from higher authorities is often necessary.

Requirements for Making a Videocall on a Ship

Enacting video calls from a ship is not as straightforward as initiating a call on land. Marine engineers working on board ships serve an essential role in managing the vessel's infrastructure and systems, ensuring safety and proper operations. While personal videocalls can be a welcome way to maintain personal connections, strict procedures exist to manage shipboard resources and priorities.

Ships Communication Protocols

Ships often have strict communication protocols to prioritize essential communications related to navigation and safety. These protocols are designed to allocate bandwidth for critical tasks such as distress signals, navigation updates, and safety communications. Personal videocalls, while beneficial, must not interfere with these critical operations.

Operational Considerations

The captain or the officer on watch (OOW) may need to assess whether the ship is in a situation where videocalls can be conducted without impacting operations or safety. The OOW's primary concern is ensuring that the ship can operate safely and efficiently at all times. Any potential disruptions to normal operations can compromise the integrity and security of the vessel, making approval necessary.

Cost and Resources Management

Ships typically have limited satellite communication capabilities, which can be expensive to use. The captain must manage these resources carefully to ensure that critical operations are not disrupted. Unauthorized videocalls could lead to unforeseen expenses or ethical concerns, making approval a standard procedure.

Policy and Regulations

Many maritime companies have specific policies regarding personal communications while at sea. These policies stipulate that marine engineers must obtain approval from higher authorities before making a videocall. This ensures that personal communications do not conflict with company guidelines or maritime laws.

Navigating the Perils of Online Communication

In addition to understanding the protocols for making videocalls, marine engineers must also be cautious about online interactions. Personal communications can lead to scams and fraud, which can be particularly prevalent when workers are far from home. It is crucial to recognize the signs of potential scams to avoid falling victim to fraudulent activities.

One common scam involves individuals pretending to be military personnel, often claiming to be marine engineers or sailors. These individuals may initiate conversations and ask for money under false pretenses, promising to reimburse the costs of travel or other expenses. To protect yourself, it is essential to verify the identity of the person you are communicating with and to be wary of any requests for financial assistance.

The following tips can help you avoid scams:

Do not send money or provide financial information to anyone you do not know or trust. Verify the authenticity of a person's identity before engaging in any financial transactions. Do not share personal information such as your address, phone number, or bank account details. Use established communication channels and avoid direct email or text communication.

Real-World Scenarios

The following scenarios illustrate situations where personal communications can be particularly challenging, especially when dealing with military personnel or individuals claiming to be so:

Scenario 1: Deployed Military Personnel

Military personnel, including marine engineers, are often deployed in situations where personal visits are unlikely. Deployments can last for extended periods, and the military ensures that all basic needs are met on location. Critical factors such as emergency leave can be extremely restrictive in such situations. Military members do not incur general cost of living expenses, as these are provided by the military. Additionally, they can access their bank accounts and transfer or withdraw money.

Scenario 2: The Misuse of Military Communication

Fraudsters often exploit the reputation of the military to deceive people. They may claim to be collaborating with the military or to be in a critical situation, asking for financial help. However, genuine military personnel do not need to pay for personal expenses related to their deployment. Any claims of paying for emergency travel or other exorbitant costs should be scrutinized.

Examples of red flags in these scenarios include:

Requests for monetary reimbursement for travel or other expenses. Claims of having to pay for special medical or personal items during deployment. Requests for military-related services or details that are not available to the general public.

Conclusion

While videocalls can be a valuable tool for maintaining personal connections, they must be conducted in accordance with established protocols and policies. Marine engineers must seek permission from the captain or higher authorities before making such calls to ensure that they do not conflict with the ship's operations and priorities. Additionally, it is imperative to remain vigilant and cautious when engaging in online communications to avoid falling victim to scams. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, marine engineers can maintain both professional and personal communications effectively.