SAMS Safety Systems and Equipment 4

Question 1

When assessing a vessel's smoke detection system in a sleeping cabin, a SAMS surveyor should verify that detectors conform to which standard?

Accepted Answer

UL 217 listed units installed per ABYC H-2.8

Answer

ABYC recommends UL 217 listed smoke detectors installed in accommodation spaces per ABYC guidelines for recreational vessels.

Question 2

A surveyor finds a propane locker that drains into the engine compartment bilge. What is the significance of this deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Propane is heavier than air and could accumulate in the bilge creating an explosion hazard

Answer

Propane is denser than air and settles in low areas; a locker draining to the bilge allows gas to accumulate near ignition sources, creating an explosion hazard.

Question 3

Under 33 CFR 175.130, vessels between 26 and 40 feet operating on coastal waters must carry how many USCG-approved day/night visual distress signals?

Accepted Answer

Three day signals and three night signals (or three combination)

Answer

33 CFR 175.130 requires three day and three night signals, or three combination day/night signals, for vessels 16 feet and over on coastal waters.

Question 4

What is the maximum allowable age for a hydrostatic release unit (HRU) used with a life raft before mandatory replacement?

Accepted Answer

2 years

Answer

HRUs have a maximum service life of 2 years from date of manufacture, after which they must be replaced regardless of condition.

Question 5

A surveyor is evaluating an automatic fixed fire detection system in a vessel's engine room. The system uses rate-of-rise heat detectors. What is a key limitation of this type?

Accepted Answer

They may not activate during a slow-developing fire that doesn't produce a rapid temperature rise

Answer

Rate-of-rise detectors trigger on rapid temperature increase and may fail to alarm during slow-smoldering fires that develop gradually.

(SAMS) Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Practice Test

(SAMS) Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Practice Test

SAMS Safety Systems and Equipment 4