CMRT Regulatory Compliance & Documentation Flashcards

What does the term 'deficiency' mean in the context of a Port State Control (PSC) radar inspection?

Answer: A noted non-compliance or equipment fault that must be corrected before the vessel departs, or within an agreed timeframe

A PSC deficiency is an official finding of non-compliance; radar deficiencies may result in detention until the equipment is restored to operational status.

Which IMO resolution introduced mandatory carriage of a second radar on larger vessels and the requirement for ARPA?

Answer: IMO Resolution MSC.192(79) building on earlier A.477 and A.278

The lineage of IMO resolutions culminating in MSC.192(79) progressively introduced ARPA requirements and dual-radar carriage for larger vessels on international voyages.

What is the purpose of the 'radar performance monitor' check that technicians must conduct?

Answer: To verify that the radar's transmitter and receiver are functioning at design efficiency and detect degradation before it affects safety

The performance monitor (plume test) compares current receiver sensitivity to a known standard, alerting the technician to transmitter or receiver degradation.

Under what circumstance is it permissible to operate a SOLAS vessel with a primary radar inoperative?

Answer: When a suitable alternative means of navigation is available and the defect is formally recorded; flag state or class may require notification and a repair schedule

SOLAS permits operation with defective equipment only when an equivalent alternative exists, the deficiency is logged, and the flag state or recognized organization is notified within required timeframes.

What is an 'Equipment Approval Certificate' and who issues it in the US for marine radar?

Answer: An FCC authorization document confirming the radar model has passed Part 80 type acceptance testing

The FCC issues an equipment authorization (formerly type acceptance) certificate confirming that a specific radar model meets Part 80 technical standards and is approved for use in US waters.

Why must radar installation drawings and technical documentation be retained on board after a new radar installation or major refit?

Answer: To support flag state surveys, PSC inspections, and future maintenance by providing approved installation details, cable routing, and system configuration

Retained installation documentation allows surveyors to verify the installation was completed per type-approval requirements and assists future technicians in maintaining the system correctly.