DWO Watchkeeping and Communication 3

Question 1

Under STCW, what minimum rest period must an officer assigned to a navigational watch receive in any 24-hour period?

Accepted Answer

10 hours

Answer

STCW requires a minimum of 10 hours rest in any 24-hour period to ensure watchkeeper alertness.

Question 2

What action should the OOW take if the autopilot alarm sounds and the vessel begins sheering off course?

Accepted Answer

Switch to hand steering and apply corrective helm

Answer

Switching to manual steering and correcting the course is the immediate priority to regain helm control.

Question 3

In GMDSS, what is the purpose of an EPIRB?

Accepted Answer

To activate a distress alert via satellite when the vessel is in danger

Answer

An EPIRB transmits a distress signal via the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system to alert rescue coordination centers.

Question 4

Which Rule of COLREGS establishes the obligation to maintain a proper lookout?

Accepted Answer

Rule 5

Answer

COLREGS Rule 5 requires every vessel to maintain a proper look-out by sight, hearing, and all available means.

Question 5

When using a pilot ladder, what is the maximum permissible angle of the accommodation ladder used in combination?

Accepted Answer

45 degrees from the horizontal

Answer

SOLAS requires that when accommodation ladders are used in combination with pilot ladders, they must not exceed 45° from horizontal.

(DWO) Deck Watch Officer Practice Test