The STCW - Officer in Charge of Engneering Watch (OICEW) or DDE 750 kW/1000 HP or More is the officer on watch in charge of the main propulsion plant of the ship, and of the associated auxiliaries. They are responsible for the safe and proper operation of such units, and for the performance of the duties prescribed in these regulations and by other competent authority. OICEW will also be responsible for power generation and distribution systems and other equipment such as refrigeration plant and pumping and ventilation systems and more.
A designated duty engineer DDE is defined by STCW as the engineer in charge of a watch in a periodically unmanned engine room. Under the United States regulations, the DDE may serve as a Chief Engineer on domestic vessels of not more than 500grt.
