
Damage Control Officers
Damage Control Officers (DCOs) are skilled personnel responsible for managing and coordinating efforts to prevent or respond to emergencies on ships, such as fires, flooding, or hull breaches. They develop safety procedures, oversee the use of firefighting and damage control equipment, and train crew members to handle emergencies efficiently. Their role ensures that the vessel maintains safety and structural integrity during crises, minimizing damage and protecting lives. In essence, DCOs are the ship’s safety specialists, prepared to lead repairs and responses swiftly when unforeseen incidents occur at sea.