Question 1

The vessel's watch alarm was active but didn't prevent the grounding. What limitation did MAIB identify?

Accepted Answer

It had no visual alarm or audible repeater in the crew accommodation, and was very likely masked by music playing in the wheelhouse The watch alarm operated on a 4-minute timer inside the wheelhouse only — no repeater or visual alert reached the crew accommodation, so once the skipper was asleep there was no way for the rest of the crew to be alerted. MAIB also found it was very likely masked by music playing at the time.

Question 2

You're asked to test a deck crane grab after electrical repairs nearby. As the grab is hoisted, what should have happened first?

Accepted Answer

The area within the grab's swing radius should be cleared of personnel before the lift On the bulk carrier Fairfield Eagle, a crew member working nearby was struck and fatally injured when a grab being test-lifted after repairs swung unexpectedly. The investigation found the area should have been cleared and barriered before the test lift began.

Question 3

A toolbox talk held before a lifting operation should explicitly cover which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Who must remain clear of the exclusion zone while the lift takes place A toolbox talk exists to make sure everyone present understands the danger zones, the abort signal, and — critically — who must not be in the area while the lift happens. The RMIMA investigation into the Fairfield Eagle fatality found the toolbox talk had not made this clear.