CMI Report Writing & Case Documentation 5

Question 1

Which of the following is the correct order for structuring a formal marine casualty investigation report?

Accepted Answer

Executive summary, vessel particulars, findings of fact, analysis, conclusions, recommendations

Answer

A formal marine casualty report follows a logical progression from summary through factual data, analysis, and conclusions to actionable recommendations.

Question 2

When a marine investigator must report conflicting accounts from two witnesses, the best approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Document both accounts accurately and note the discrepancy, then address it during analysis

Answer

Both conflicting accounts must be faithfully documented; the analysis section is the appropriate place to evaluate credibility and reconcile discrepancies.

Question 3

The 'voyage data recorder' (VDR) is analogous to what device in the aviation industry?

Accepted Answer

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder combination

Answer

The VDR captures bridge audio, navigational data, radar images, and AIS data, serving the same investigative function as aviation's flight data and cockpit voice recorders.

Question 4

A CMI reviewing a vessel's SMS (Safety Management System) during a casualty investigation is primarily looking for:

Accepted Answer

Procedural deficiencies or deviations that contributed to the casualty

Answer

An SMS review examines whether proper safety procedures existed, were followed, and whether systemic failures in the management system contributed to the casualty.

Question 5

What is the significance of including UTC timestamps (rather than local time) in a marine investigation report?

Accepted Answer

UTC provides a consistent, unambiguous time reference that avoids confusion across time zones

Answer

UTC provides a single, globally consistent time reference that eliminates ambiguity when correlating events across different time zones, vessels, or shore facilities.

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

CMI Report Writing & Case Documentation 5