MCA Certificate of Competency Emergency Response Procedures Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A UK-flagged vessel is conducting an abandon ship drill. According to the Merchant Shipping (Musters, Training and Decision Support Systems) Regulations 1999, what is the minimum frequency for launching and manoeuvring each lifeboat with its assigned operating crew in the water?
- At least once every month.
- At least once every 6 months.
- At least once every 3 months. (Correct answer)
- Only when the MCA surveyor requests it.
Correct answer: At least once every 3 months.
The Merchant Shipping (Musters, Training and Decision Support Systems) Regulations 1999, which implement SOLAS Chapter III requirements in the UK, state that each lifeboat shall be launched with its assigned operating crew aboard and manoeuvred in the water at least once every 3 months during an abandon ship drill. This ensures that the crew are familiar with the operation of the lifeboat and its equipment in a realistic environment.
Question 2: During a man overboard emergency, what is the immediate action that should be taken by the person who witnesses the incident, as recommended by the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP)?
- Immediately launch the rescue boat.
- Shout 'Man Overboard' to alert the bridge and other crew. (Correct answer)
- Run to the muster station.
- Note the ship's position and time.
Correct answer: Shout 'Man Overboard' to alert the bridge and other crew.
The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (COSWP) emphasizes that the first and most critical action upon witnessing a person fall overboard is to raise the alarm immediately. This is done by shouting 'Man Overboard' loudly and clearly to ensure the bridge is aware and can initiate emergency manoeuvres, and to alert other crew members who can assist.
Question 3: A vessel is preparing for entry into an enclosed space while in a UK port. Under The Merchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Entry into Enclosed Spaces) Regulations 2022, which of the following is a mandatory requirement before any person enters the space?
- The Master must personally supervise the entry.
- A risk assessment must be completed and a permit-to-work system must be in place. (Correct answer)
- The local Port Authority must be notified of the intended entry.
- At least two crew members must enter the space together.
Correct answer: A risk assessment must be completed and a permit-to-work system must be in place.
The Merchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Entry into Enclosed Spaces) Regulations 2022 mandate a systematic approach to safety. Before entry, a competent person must undertake a risk assessment to identify hazards, and a formal permit-to-work must be completed and authorized. This ensures all precautions, such as atmosphere checks and rescue plans, are in place and verified.
Question 4: On a UK-flagged passenger ship, what is the regulatory requirement for the frequency of abandon ship and fire drills?
- Monthly for both drills.
- Weekly for both drills. (Correct answer)
- Weekly for abandon ship drills and monthly for fire drills.
- Monthly for abandon ship drills and weekly for fire drills.
Correct answer: Weekly for both drills.
For UK passenger ships of Classes I, II, II(A), and III, an abandon ship drill and a fire drill must be held weekly. Regulations also stipulate that each crew member must participate in at least one of each type of drill monthly. This higher frequency on passenger vessels reflects the increased number of persons on board and the complexity of a potential evacuation.
Question 5: A ship is involved in a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation in the English Channel. Which volume of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual is designed to be carried aboard the vessel and provides guidance for the performance of a search, rescue, or on-scene coordinator function?
- Volume I - Organization and Management
- Volume II - Mission Co-ordination
- Volume IV - SAR Training
- Volume III - Mobile Facilities (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Volume III - Mobile Facilities
IAMSAR Volume III: Mobile Facilities is intended to be carried aboard rescue units, aircraft, and vessels to help with the performance of a search, rescue, or on-scene co-ordinator function. SOLAS Regulation V/21 requires all ships to carry an up-to-date copy. It provides the practical guidance needed by the crew at the scene of an incident.
Question 6: According to UK regulations implementing SOLAS Chapter III, emergency drills for enclosed space entry and rescue must be conducted at intervals not exceeding:
- Every month.
- Every two months. (Correct answer)
- Every three months.
- Every six months.
Correct answer: Every two months.
The Merchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Entry into Enclosed Spaces) Regulations 2022 require that drills covering entry and rescue procedures are carried out at least every two months. This ensures that crew members remain proficient in using the required equipment and following the established procedures for both routine entry and emergency rescue from these hazardous spaces.
MCA Certificate of Competency Emergency Response Procedures Questions and Answers
A UK-flagged vessel is conducting an abandon ship drill.
According to the Merchant Shipping (Musters, Training and Decision Support Systems) Regulations 1999, what is the minimum frequency for launching and manoeuvring each lifeboat with its assigned operating crew in the water?