What is one of the main duties expected from a QMED on a vessel?

Operating the engine room and machinery is a fundamental duty of a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED). This role involves not only running the machinery and systems that power the vessel but also ensuring that they are maintained and functioning optimally. QMEDs are trained in various engineering systems, including generators, boilers, pumps, and other critical equipment, which are essential for the ship's operation.

Their responsibilities often extend to monitoring performance, troubleshooting issues, and conducting routine inspections and repairs. This ensures the safety and efficiency of the vessel's operations, highlighting the importance of the engine room's functionality in the overall seamanship and voyage safety. Other roles such as navigation, cargo management, and medical assistance, while important, fall outside the primary scope of a QMED's training and responsibilities.