SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Safety Systems and Equipment Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a survey of a 45-foot recreational vessel with a gasoline engine and enclosed engine compartment, you observe it is equipped with a single 20-B UL-rated portable fire extinguisher.
According to USCG regulations for a vessel of this size with no fixed fire suppression system, what is the correct assessment of this equipment?

Accepted Answer

The vessel meets the minimum requirement, as one 20-B can substitute for two 5-B extinguishers.

Answer

The vessel is deficient, as it requires at least three 5-B rated extinguishers.

Answer

The vessel exceeds requirements, as only one 5-B extinguisher is necessary.

Answer

The vessel is deficient, as a 10-B extinguisher is the minimum required size.

Question 2

A marine surveyor is inspecting a SOLAS-compliant inflatable liferaft stowed on a commercial vessel. Which of the following is a mandatory SOLAS requirement for the construction and performance of this liferaft?

Accepted Answer

It must be constructed to withstand exposure for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.

Answer

It must be capable of being towed at a speed of at least 5 knots in calm water.

Answer

It must have a painter line with a minimum length of 10 meters.

Answer

The total mass, including the container and equipment, must not exceed 150 kg.

Question 3

While conducting a survey on a 30-foot recreational boat operating on coastal waters, you need to verify the Visual Distress Signals (VDS). Which of the following combinations of day and night signals would meet the minimum USCG requirements?

Accepted Answer

One electric SOS distress light and one orange distress flag.

Answer

One orange distress flag and three white handheld flares.

Answer

Three red SOLAS parachute flares.

Answer

Two orange smoke signals and two red handheld flares.

Question 4

You are surveying a vessel and must check the 406 MHz EPIRB. According to U.S. law, which of the following is a critical compliance item for the surveyor to verify?

Accepted Answer

The EPIRB's registration with NOAA must be current.

Answer

The EPIRB must be painted international orange.

Answer

The battery must be replaced every five years, regardless of the manufacturer's expiration date.

Answer

The device must be tested via a live activation signal to the satellite system annually.

Question 5

A power-driven vessel is underway in restricted visibility and has stopped, making no way through the water. According to the COLREGs, what sound signal should it make?

Accepted Answer

Two prolonged blasts in succession at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

Answer

One prolonged blast at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

Answer

One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

Answer

One short, one prolonged, and one short blast.

Question 6

Which of the following standards is most directly referenced by a marine surveyor when inspecting the installation and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers on a pleasure craft to ensure they meet minimum safety requirements?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 302

Answer

SOLAS Chapter V

Answer

ABYC Standard A-32

Answer

COLREGs Rule 35