AB Deck Safety and Pollution 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which MARPOL Annex specifically covers the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships?
- Annex I
- Annex II
- Annex IV (Correct answer)
- Annex V
Correct answer: Annex IV
MARPOL Annex IV regulates the discharge of sewage from ships, including treatment standards and discharge distance requirements.
Question 2: Before using a portable electric power tool on deck, a seaman should FIRST:
- Test the tool at full speed for 30 seconds
- Inspect the tool, cord, and plug for damage and verify the voltage rating (Correct answer)
- Grease all moving parts
- Connect it and verify the breaker trips correctly
Correct answer: Inspect the tool, cord, and plug for damage and verify the voltage rating
Inspecting the tool, cord, and plug for visible damage before use prevents electrocution and equipment failure.
Question 3: When must the Garbage Record Book be maintained on a vessel under MARPOL Annex V?
- Only on vessels over 400 GT engaged in international voyages
- On all vessels of 100 GT and above, and ships certified to carry 15 or more persons (Correct answer)
- On tankers only, regardless of size
- Only on vessels carrying hazardous cargo
Correct answer: On all vessels of 100 GT and above, and ships certified to carry 15 or more persons
MARPOL Annex V requires a Garbage Record Book on all ships of 100 GT and above and all ships certified to carry 15 or more persons.
Question 4: A seaman is painting a confined area below decks. The MOST important safety precaution is to:
- Use only water-based paint
- Ensure adequate ventilation and wear appropriate respiratory protection (Correct answer)
- Work quickly to minimize exposure time
- Paint only during daylight hours
Correct answer: Ensure adequate ventilation and wear appropriate respiratory protection
Solvent-based paint fumes can accumulate to toxic or explosive concentrations; adequate ventilation and proper respiratory PPE are essential.
Question 5: Under ISM Code requirements, what must crew do if they observe a 'near miss' on deck?
- Handle it internally within the work team without paperwork
- Report it through the ship's safety management system so corrective actions can be taken (Correct answer)
- Report only if the incident caused minor injury
- Wait until the monthly safety meeting to raise it
Correct answer: Report it through the ship's safety management system so corrective actions can be taken
The ISM Code requires near-miss incidents to be reported through the SMS so the company can identify hazards and implement corrective actions.
Question 6: What is the function of a 'pig' in pipeline or hose operations on a tanker?
- A valve that controls cargo flow rate
- A device pushed through piping to clean or inspect it (Correct answer)
- A type of foam nozzle for fire fighting
- A pressure relief fitting on cargo manifolds
Correct answer: A device pushed through piping to clean or inspect it
A pig is a device driven through a pipeline by pressure to clean, inspect, or separate products within the line.
Question 7: Which document on board provides the specific instructions for oil spill response required under US regulations (33 CFR Part 155)?
- The Cargo Securing Manual
- The Vessel Response Plan (VRP) (Correct answer)
- The Safety Management System manual
- The Ship's Stability Booklet
Correct answer: The Vessel Response Plan (VRP)
The Vessel Response Plan (VRP) is required under 33 CFR Part 155 for vessels operating in US waters and outlines oil spill response procedures.
AB Deck Safety and Pollution 4
Which MARPOL Annex specifically covers the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships?