What is the first action to take before pumping bilges?

The first action to take before pumping bilges is to obtain permission from the Command Duty Officer (CDO). This step is critical because the CDO is responsible for overall safety and operational control during an in-port evolution. By obtaining permission, the OOD ensures that all safety protocols and procedures are followed, and that no other activities might be occurring that could be impacted by bilge pumping, such as other maneuvering operations or the presence of nearby vessels or personnel that could be affected by the process. It reinforces the importance of communication and checks within the chain of command before proceeding with any action that could affect the ship’s safety or the environment. This approach also aligns with standard operating procedures designed to maintain good order and safety in any maritime operation.

The other actions, while important in their own right, follow after ensuring prior permission is granted from the CDO. Informing the duty engineer or maintaining communication with lookouts might be part of the overall operational process, but they do not take precedence over securing authorization from the CDO. Pumping during daylight hours could be a safety consideration but is not a determining factor in the procedural hierarchy of actions required.