Step- by- step Guide to Developing Operation Procedures- Trusted Process from WMT Marine

May 28, 2025

Introduction

Creating clear and compliant vessel operation procedures is critical for ensuring safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance onboard marine and offshore vessels. From day-to-day operations to emergency protocols, each step must be well-documented and easy to follow. That’s where expert technical writing makes all the difference.

At WMT Marine Ltd, based in Deeside Industrial Park, Flintshire, we specialise in technical documentation for the marine and offshore oil and gas sectors. In this guide, we break down a step-by-step process for developing vessel operation procedures that meet industry standards and support smooth operations at sea.

Why Vessel Operation Procedures Are Essential

Properly written operation procedures help:

Prevent operational errors
Ensure crew safety and readiness
Meet international and UK maritime regulations
Support audits, training, and inspections
Increase vessel uptime and efficiency

Whether you're managing a supply vessel, tanker, or offshore platform, vessel-specific procedures are not just helpful—they're mandatory.

Step-by-Step Guide to Developing Vessel Operation Procedures

Step 1: Conduct a Vessel System Audit

Start with a detailed assessment of the vessel’s machinery, navigation systems, safety equipment, and onboard processes. Understanding how the vessel operates in practice is key to writing accurate and relevant procedures.

Step 2: Identify Applicable Regulations

Ensure procedures align with:

IMO (International Maritime Organization) codes
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)
ISM Code (International Safety Management)
UK MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) standards
Classification Society requirements

At WMT Marine, we cross-check all procedures with the latest UK and global compliance standards.

Step 3: Define Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Break down each major operation into logical steps, such as:

Starting and shutting down engines
Fuel transfer and storage procedures
Navigation system checks
Mooring and anchoring steps
Emergency evacuation plans

Each SOP should be tailored to the specific vessel type and function.

Step 4: Write in Clear, UK English

Avoid ambiguous terms and complex language. Use consistent terminology throughout the manual, and structure sentences using active voice. WMT Marine’s writing team ensures all content is readable by multi-national crews.

Step 5: Add Visual Aids and Safety Icons

Where possible, include:

Equipment diagrams
Flowcharts
Safety labels and hazard symbols
Step-by-step visuals

Visual references enhance usability, especially during high-stress situations.

Step 6: Test and Review with the Crew

Involve onboard personnel and technical teams in reviewing procedures for practicality and accuracy. This collaborative approach ensures that documents reflect real-world practices.

Step 7: Maintain and Update Regularly

All procedures must be reviewed periodically, especially after:

Regulatory changes
Equipment upgrades
Incident investigations
Changes in crew training needs

WMT Marine offers long-term documentation support, making updates simple and stress-free.

Why Work with WMT Marine?

With decades of experience in marine documentation, WMT Marine Ltd is trusted across the UK marine and offshore industries. Our technical writing team provides:

Bespoke vessel operation procedures
Regulatory-compliant manuals and SOPs
Visual-rich, easy-to-follow guides
Print and digital-ready formats

From Flintshire to the wider UK and offshore markets, our clients count on us to deliver documentation that improves operations and passes inspections.

Conclusion

Having well-developed vessel operation procedures isn’t just good practice—it’s a requirement for regulatory compliance and safe onboard management. By following a clear process and partnering with experts like WMT Marine, shipowners and offshore operators can ensure their procedures are accurate, up-to-date, and fully fit for purpose.