What are the responsibilities of a Harbour Master?

What are the responsibilities of a Harbour Master

?

Ports are extremely busy places, and the constant comings and goings and diverse port activities need to be managed and monitored in a safe, efficient and responsible way.

The responsibility for the safe and efficient running of a port falls squarely on the shoulders of the Harbour Master. In the UK, Harbour Masters are managed by the local Harbour Authority and their work covers a wide range of different areas.

Many ports are home to passenger ferry companies, cargo operators, boat builders and leisure marinas, and the Harbour Master's role largely depends on the size of the port and the activities that take place within it.

Waterways within ports can become very busy, and the Harbour Master's job is not dissimilar to that of an air traffic controller. The Harbour Master has to ensure that vessel movements are carefully planned and closely monitored, to prevent harbours from becoming dangerously congested.

To ensure that vessels move safely in and out of the port, the Harbour Master uses radio equipment, radars and charts, and usually has access to a detailed ships register. The Harbour Master needs to make sure that vessels can safely navigate waterways at all times, and is responsible for spotting and solving problems as and when they arise.

With many ports regularly welcoming large cargo ships and commercial ferries, pollution can be an issue and it is the Harbour Master's responsibility to keep the environmental impact to a minimum. Ports are often expanded or redeveloped, and the Harbour Master plays an important role in making sure that any new buildings or development respect the local environment and are in keeping with the rest of the port.

To become a Harbour Master, you normally need to possess a certain amount of maritime experience, through working as a ship's master or in a similar role. The role of Harbour Master carries a lot of responsibility in itself, but it can often act as a stepping stone to more senior positions and management roles, such as the job of port director.

POST COMMENT

Catching Surfperch What Is gloMinerals Makeup? Zoom Away With V-Rod Exhausts Indicates to Create Biodiesel Generating use of Algae MLB jerseys: Buy before the next season All About Screaming Eagle Exhaust Pipes Beat Your Competitors: Effectively Use SEO Scion TC Exhausts People String Payment - Can You Really Get a Regular Payment From People String? Spare Parts For Your Kreepy Krawley The Best Boilers From Weil McLain Custom Key Chains All About The Simplex Fire Alarm System