On ships, rank is often shown by stripes on epaulettes. Practice varies between companies and countries. The tables below are a common example, not a fixed rule.
Common stripe pattern (deck)
| Rank | Usually | |---|---| | Master | 4 stripes | | Chief Officer | 3 stripes (4 in some companies) | | Second Officer | 2 stripes | | Third Officer | 1 stripe | | Cadet | Usually a band or plain insignia |
Engine department
Engineers often use the same number of stripes, with a distinguishing coloured band (for example purple) to show the department: | Rank | Usually | |---|---| | Chief Engineer | 4 | | Second Engineer | 3 | | Third Engineer | 2 | | Fourth Engineer | 1 |
Important notes
- Stripe patterns differ by company, flag and ship type. Ask about the dress code on your first day in a new company.
- Ratings usually do not wear striped epaulettes; they wear coveralls or short-sleeved uniforms.
- Insignia show the hierarchy, applied within the framework of safety and respect.
Uniform rules
For formal occasions (port, inspections, guests on board) a clean and tidy uniform matters. If your company sets its own rule, follow it.
For exact practice, check your company's uniform policy.