Shipboard Safety & Emergency Procedures Flashcards

What is the recommended body position to conserve heat while waiting for rescue in cold water without an immersion suit?

Answer: HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Posture) — knees drawn up, arms pressed to sides

The HELP position protects the body's major heat-loss areas (groin, armpits, chest) and can significantly extend survival time in cold water.

Fixed CO2 fire suppression systems in machinery spaces must NOT be activated until:

Answer: All personnel are confirmed clear of the space and the space is sealed

CO2 displaces oxygen and is lethal; all personnel must be evacuated and the space sealed before activating the system.

What is the purpose of a 'dead man' or 'watch alarm' system on a vessel?

Answer: To alert the bridge if the officer on watch becomes incapacitated

The watch alarm system requires periodic acknowledgment from the OOW and alerts others if it is not reset, indicating the watch officer may be incapacitated.

Under SOLAS, vessel fire drills must be conducted at a minimum of:

Answer: Once per week

SOLAS requires fire drills and abandon ship drills to be conducted at least once per week when the vessel is at sea.

Which agency administers the USCG National Response Center for reporting vessel pollution incidents?

Answer: USCG / NRC (National Response Center)

The National Response Center (NRC), operated by the USCG, is the sole federal point of contact for reporting oil and chemical spills.

What does a flashing amber light on a rescue boat indicate?

Answer: Amber is not a standard rescue boat light signal

Standard COLREGS do not designate an amber flashing light for rescue boats; mariners must not assume an unofficial signal is standardized.

When a vessel receives a distress call, the OOW must FIRST:

Answer: Acknowledge the distress call and inform the master

The OOW must acknowledge the distress call and immediately inform the master, who will then decide on the appropriate course of action.