Administrative inspections cover administrative methods and procedures normally employed by the ship. Each inspection is divided into two general categoriesthe general administration of the ship as a whole, and the administration of each department. In this discussion we will consider the engineering department only.

The purpose of the administrative inspection is to determine whether or not (1) the department is being administered in an intelligent, sound, and efficient manner; and (2) the organizational and administrative methods and procedures are directed toward the objective of every naval ship-namely, being prepared to carry out its intended mission.

Inspecting Party

It is a routine procedure for one ship to conduct an inspection of a similar division on another ship. General instructions for conducting the inspection are usually given by the division commander; however, the selecting and organizing of the inspecting party is done aboard the ship that must conduct the inspection.

The chief inspector, usually the commanding officer of the ship, will organize the assisting board. The organization of the assisting board, in general conformance with the departmental organization of the ship, is divided into appropriate groups, each headed by an inspector with as many assistant inspectors as necessary. Chief petty officers and petty officers first class may be assigned as assistant inspectors.

The engineering department inspecting group (or party) is organized and supervised by the engineer officer. The manner in which an individual inspection is carried out depends to a great extent upon the knowledge and ability of the members of the group (or party).