Who typically maintains the Engineering log?

The Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) is responsible for maintaining the Engineering log. This log serves as a detailed record of the ship's engineering operations and is crucial for monitoring the status of machinery, systems, and any significant events that occur during the watch. The EOOW is specifically tasked with documenting various parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel levels, and maintenance activities, ensuring that the information is accurate and current.

This documentation is essential for ensuring operational safety and efficiency, as it provides a historical account of the engineering conditions on board that can be referred to in future analysis or investigations. While the Chief Engineer and other supervisory roles may be involved in oversight and decision-making, the direct responsibility for the log falls to the EOOW during their watch. Thus, the answer highlights the EOOW’s crucial role in maintaining accurate and timely records aboard the vessel.