SVOP Emergency Procedures and Safety 2

Question 1

What is the immediate action when a crew member falls overboard on a small commercial vessel?

Accepted Answer

Shout 'man overboard', throw a lifebuoy toward the person, assign a lookout, and execute a recovery manoeuvre

Answer

Man overboard (MOB) response: immediately shout the alarm, throw a buoyant device toward the person, post a lookout who keeps eyes on the victim at all times, mark the position (GPS/MOB button), and execute a recognised MOB manoeuvre such as the Williamson Turn or Quick Stop.

Question 2

What is the correct procedure for using a portable fire extinguisher (PASS technique)?

Accepted Answer

Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side

Answer

PASS: Pull the pin (breaks the tamper seal), Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire (the fuel source, not the flames), Squeeze the handle, Sweep from side to side across the base of the fire.

Question 3

What are the signs of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, and what is the immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion — immediately move persons to fresh air and call for emergency medical help

Answer

CO is odourless and colourless. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and confusion. Immediate action: fresh air, no ignition sources, seek medical attention, and ventilate the vessel.

Question 4

What is the 'HELP' position and when should it be used?

Accepted Answer

Heat Escape Lessening Posture — drawing knees to chest and crossing arms over the chest to reduce heat loss when in cold water

Answer

HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Posture) minimises heat loss from the body's core when immersed in cold water by protecting the groin, armpits, and neck. It can extend survival time by up to 50% compared to swimming or treading water.

Question 5

When sending a MAYDAY call on VHF radio, what information must be included?

Accepted Answer

MAYDAY spoken three times, vessel name and call sign, position, nature of distress, persons aboard, any useful information, and OVER

Answer

A MAYDAY call on Ch 16 includes: 'MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY', vessel name × 3, call sign, position (lat/long or bearing/distance from known point), nature of distress, persons on board, any other helpful information, then OVER.

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP Emergency Procedures and Safety 2