Question 1

If the chain locker is found to be flooding, what should the officer in charge do, bearing in mind the risks of entering the space?

Accepted Answer

Avoid entering the flooding chain locker; instead try to identify and isolate the source of flooding from outside (e.g. check spurling pipe covers, hawse pipe, and associated piping/valves), use available pumping arrangements to remove the water, monitor the vessel's trim/stability, and inform the Master — entry should only be considered after the space has been made safe and proper enclosed space entry procedures followed A flooding chain locker presents both a stability/damage concern and a potential enclosed/dangerous space hazard (risk of falling cable, oxygen-deficient atmosphere from corrosion, or being trapped by rising water). The immediate priority is to identify and, if possible, isolate the source of ingress from outside the space — checking items such as the spurling pipe covers, hawse pipe seals, and any associated drainage or flooding valves — while informing the Master so that the effect on trim and stability can be assessed. Any pumping arrangements available for the chain locker (e.g. an eductor) should be used to control the water level. Entry into the space itself should not be attempted until it has been confirmed safe and full enclosed space entry procedures (risk assessment, atmosphere testing, permit to work) have been completed.

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.