Deck Seamanship & Line Handling Flashcards
7 cards from real AB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Deck Seamanship & Line Handling flashcards as text
A 'Flemish coil' (also called a 'cheese' or 'harbour coil') is used primarily for what purpose?
Answer: Laying a line flat on deck in a spiral for neatness and trip hazard prevention
A Flemish coil lays the line flat on deck in a tight spiral for neat stowage and to eliminate tripping hazards on working decks.
What is the main hazard of using a wire rope that has a 'kink' in it?
Answer: Kinks permanently weaken the wire at that point, risking sudden failure under load
A kink permanently deforms wire rope strands, dramatically reducing breaking strength at that point and creating a failure risk under working loads.
Which of the following best describes the function of a 'turnbuckle' used in standing rigging?
Answer: A fitting that allows fine tension adjustment of stays and shrouds
A turnbuckle is a threaded tensioning device inserted in standing rigging to allow precise adjustment of wire tension in stays and shrouds.
When rigging a tow line between two vessels, where should the line be made fast on the towing vessel?
Answer: The stern bitts or a dedicated towing hook on the stern
Tow lines are made fast to the stern bitts or towing hook designed to handle the dynamic loads and angles involved in towing operations.
What is the most important safety rule when using a pelican hook to release a mooring line quickly?
Answer: Ensure the safety latch (pin or ring) is properly secured during normal use and only removed when authorized to let go
The safety latch must be kept secured at all times during normal mooring to prevent accidental release; it is only removed when ordered to let go.
Which line-handling command instructs the crew to slowly release tension and allow the line to run out?
Answer: Ease away
'Ease away' is the command to slowly and in a controlled manner pay out or slacken a line that is under load.
When storing natural fiber line (such as manila) for extended periods, what condition must be avoided?
Answer: Storing it in a damp, enclosed space where mildew and rot can develop
Natural fiber lines like manila are susceptible to rot when stored damp and without ventilation, dramatically reducing their strength and service life.