MAN OVERBOARD-Action needed to be taken by duty engineer

Man overboard is an emergency situation wherein a crew member falls out to sea no matter where the ship is sailing. In this, we are strictly discussing the action that needs to be taken by the duty engineer. In an actual scenario, the duty engineer (technical team) will be left alone in the engine room as all another crew member would be busy in rescue and recovery.

• Without thinking, the first action should be to start the standby generator (ASAP) and take it on load -To handle the maneuvering load
• If in a UMS VESSEL - use REMOTE AUTO START of DG from ECR and take it ON-LOAD (ASAP) in an emergency situation normal warm-up procedure of DG can be waved-off.
•  Put the all standby main air compressor, deck compressors  in auto  
• Press up the main air bottle and service air bottles.  
•  Prepare the main engine for maneuvering 
•  Stop the freshwater generator (if running)
•  Adjust and monitor main engine jacket water temperature
•  Needless to say, all main engine parameter and maneuvering procedure need to be followed depending on the type of vessel
•  Make sure all DECK AIR VALVE and DECK  FW VALVES are OPEN
•  Make sure sufficient hydraulic motor are running for DECK HYDRAULIC machinery
•  Take a quick round in the steering gear room to make sure everything is alright
• Maintain good communication with the bridge, attend all calls, and request promptly.

The best way to update yourself on the rescue is by keeping a free walkie-talkie on the deck channel.

People react differently in the real situation some people paralyze and other lead and if you feel that you cannot handle the situation just ask for an extra hand.

Disclaimer: Please follow company procedure and duties listed on the muster list these are just additional points from the perspective of an engineer gathered from practical experience.