Panama released a circular in relation to the Night-Time Lookout

The Panama Maritime Authority has released a merchant marine circular (MMC-170) in relation to the Night Time Lookout.

Purpose

This MMC informs about Resolution No. 106-OMI-52-DGMM, adopted from Circular MSC.1/1280, which outlines International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines for Night-Time Lookout, Photochromic Lenses, and Dark Adaptation.

Scope

MMC-170 is applicable to ship operators, masters, officers, and crew on lookout duties.

Recent marine accidents and STCW Code A-VIII/2, part 3-1, paragraph 19, emphasize the importance of full dark adaptation before taking over a watch.

Consequently, a new Circular from the Maritime Safety Committee instructs the Panamanian flag vessel crew as follows:

1. Crew alternating between the bridge and brightly lit areas must ensure dark adaptation each time they return to the bridge.
2. Maintain darkness on the bridge, using blackout procedures to avoid light contamination.
3. Avoid using photochromic lenses for night lookout duties due to potential night vision reduction.

MMC-170 was released on 1 October 2023.

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

Night Time Lookout

MSC.1/Circ.1280: NIGHT-TIME LOOKOUT - PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES AND DARK ADAPTATION