What key performance indicators should the EOW monitor during watch?

Monitoring engine temperature and pressure levels is critical for the Engineer Officer of the Watch (EOW) during a watch because these indicators provide essential information regarding the operational status and health of the vessel’s machinery. Elevated temperatures can indicate potential overheating issues, while abnormal pressure levels may suggest blockages or malfunctions in the system. These parameters directly affect the performance and reliability of the engines, which are vital for safe navigation and operational efficiency. Staying within specified ranges ensures that any anomalies can be addressed before they lead to more significant mechanical failures, potentially compromising the safety of the vessel and its crew.

In contrast, other options like wind speed and visibility, while important for navigational safety and decision-making, do not directly relate to the machinery performance which falls under the EOW's responsibilities. Water levels in the hull are crucial for overall vessel integrity but do not focus specifically on the engineering systems monitored during watch. Employee productivity may be important in a broader operational context, but it is not a direct responsibility of the EOW during watch, who is primarily focused on monitoring and maintaining engineering systems.