Question 1

True or False: A kill cord or deadman's switch, worn by a single-handed operator and connected to the engine controls, will stop the vessel if the operator becomes separated from the helm — rather than letting it continue unmanned.

Accepted Answer

True True. This is exactly the mechanism a kill cord provides. Aboard K Mar K, the vessel continued running on autopilot, unmanned, after the sole crew member fell overboard — until it ran aground. A kill cord connected to the engine controls is designed to stop the vessel the moment the operator is no longer physically present at the helm.

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.