Oral Prep questions Flashcards
(44 cards)
You are mid Atlantic on a UMS boat you are about to start work for the day what check would you do
On a UMS (Unattended Machinery Spaces) boat, starting the day requires thorough checks to ensure safe and efficient operations. Here’s a structured approach:
1. General Safety Checks
- Confirm Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are in place for any ongoing maintenance.
- Check alarms and monitoring systems—ensure the bridge and duty engineer’s cabin alarms are functional.
- Verify emergency systems—fire detection, dead man alarm, and emergency generator readiness.
2. Engine Room Inspection
- Conduct a full engine room round—look for leaks, abnormal noises, or vibrations.
- Check fuel, lubricating oil, and freshwater levels—ensure tanks are adequately filled.
- Inspect bilges—confirm they are dry and high-level alarms are operational.
- Examine auxiliary machinery—air compressors, purifiers, pumps, and boilers.
3. Electrical System Checks
- Monitor switchboard readings—check voltage, current, and synchronization of generators.
- Inspect battery backup systems—ensure UPS and emergency lighting are functional.
- Verify grounding and insulation resistance—especially for critical circuits.
4. Propulsion & Steering System
- Check main engine parameters—oil pressure, cooling water temperature, and exhaust gas readings.
- Inspect steering gear—ensure hydraulic systems are functioning and emergency steering is available.
5. Communication & Documentation
- Confirm bridge communication systems—VHF, satellite, and internal alarms.
- Log all findings—record any abnormalities and report them to the chief engineer.
These checks ensure the vessel operates safely and efficiently while minimizing risks during UMS operations.
Transitioning from manned condition to Unattended Machinery Spaces (UMS) requires thorough checks to ensure safe and reliable operation overnight. What would you check?
Transitioning from manned condition to Unattended Machinery Spaces (UMS) requires thorough checks to ensure safe and reliable operation overnight. Here’s a structured checklist:
1. General Safety Checks
- Confirm Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is removed for any completed maintenance.
- Verify alarms and monitoring systems—ensure bridge and duty engineer’s cabin alarms are functional.
- Check emergency systems—fire detection, dead man alarm, and emergency generator readiness.
2. Engine Room Inspection
- Conduct a full engine room round—look for leaks, abnormal noises, or vibrations.
- Check fuel, lubricating oil, and freshwater levels—ensure tanks are adequately filled.
- Inspect bilges—confirm they are dry and high-level alarms are operational.
- Examine auxiliary machinery—air compressors, purifiers, pumps, and boilers.
3. Electrical System Checks
- Monitor switchboard readings—check voltage, current, and synchronization of generators.
- Inspect battery backup systems—ensure UPS and emergency lighting are functional.
- Verify grounding and insulation resistance—especially for critical circuits.
4. Propulsion & Steering System
- Check main engine parameters—oil pressure, cooling water temperature, and exhaust gas readings.
- Inspect steering gear—ensure hydraulic systems are functioning and emergency steering is available.
5. Communication & Documentation
- Confirm bridge communication systems—VHF, satellite, and internal alarms.
- Log all findings—record any abnormalities and report them to the chief engineer.
6. Final UMS Activation Steps
- Inform the bridge—confirm intention to switch to UMS mode.
- Activate alarms—test bridge and duty engineer’s cabin alarm panels.
- Ensure engine room is clear—all crew must exit before switching to UMS.
- Secure entrances—lock all access points to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Perform a final check—any irregularities must be reported before leaving.
How would you test for water in a fuel tank
1. Water-Finding Paste Method
- Apply water-finding paste to a dipstick or rod.
- Insert it into the fuel tank and swirl it around.
- Remove the stick and check the paste’s color change—if it turns a different shade, water is present.
2. Drainage Method
- If the tank has a water drain valve, open it slightly.
- Collect the first liquid that comes out—since water is denser than fuel, it will settle at the bottom.
- If water is present, continue draining until only fuel remains.
3. Fuel Sample Test
- Take a fuel sample in a clear container.
- Let it sit for a few minutes—water will separate and settle at the bottom.
- Look for cloudiness or bubbles, which indicate water contamination.
4. Electronic Water Sensors
- Some modern fuel tanks have electronic water sensors that trigger an alert when water is detected.
- These sensors provide real-time monitoring and help prevent damage.
explain the procedure for topping up your day tank
I would consult the onboard procedure from my sms this would include:
1. Pre-Check & Safety Measures
- Verify fuel levels in the day tank using a sight glass or level gauge.
- Check for leaks in the fuel lines and tank.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent fuel vapors from accumulating.
- Confirm pump functionality—the transfer pump should be operational.
2. Fuel Transfer Process
- Open the transfer valve from the storage tank to the day tank.
- Start the transfer pump to move fuel at a controlled rate.
- Monitor fuel levels—avoid overfilling to prevent spills.
- Watch for pressure changes—abnormal pressure may indicate blockages.
3. Topping-Up & Final Checks
- Slow down the flow as the tank nears capacity.
- Close the transfer valve once the desired level is reached.
- Check for leaks around connections and valves.
- Record the operation in the logbook for tracking fuel usage.
You find thick black smoke coming from your alfa laval what would you do
1. Immediate Safety Actions
- Stop the system—shut down the Alfa Laval unit to prevent further damage. with emergency stop buttons.
- Alert the crew—notify relevant personnel to assist in troubleshooting.
- Check ventilation—ensure proper airflow to prevent smoke accumulation.
2. Identify the Cause
- Inspect electrical motor—black smoke often indicates electrical short circuit.
- Check for blockages— Motor burnout could be caused by blockages or mechanical damage in the system.
3. Troubleshooting & Resolution
- Clean the system— ensure all parts of the centrifuge is working and free to spin.
- Electrical test the motor— I would mega test the motor and ensure that I’m getting at least 10
- Check contactors switchboard— I would check and test contactor and thermal trips on the system to see they are working or damaged.
- Start up and monitor— I would start up the system and run monitoring closely for excess load further issues.
4. Preventive Measures
- Document— I would fill out a report of the issues and what was done to repair noting hours.
- Regular maintenance— I would schedule inspections to prevent future issues.
You’re an engineer on a yacht. How would you take over a watch?
Taking over a watch as an engineer on a yacht requires a structured approach to ensure smooth operations and safety. Here’s how you’d do it:
1. Pre-Handover Preparation
- Arrive early to observe ongoing operations.
- Review the engine logbook for recent entries, including fuel levels, temperatures, and pressures.
- Check for any outstanding issues reported by the previous watch.
2. Handover Discussion
- Speak with the outgoing engineer to get a verbal update on:
- Any abnormal readings or alarms.
- Ongoing maintenance or repairs.
- Fuel and oil transfer operations.
- Weather conditions affecting engine performance.
3. Physical Checks
- Conduct a visual inspection of the engine room.
- Check fluid levels (fuel, oil, coolant).
- Verify bilge levels and pump operation.
- Inspect exhaust emissions for abnormalities.
- Ensure fire suppression systems are operational.
4. System Functionality Tests
- Confirm generator load and power distribution.
- Check cooling systems for proper circulation.
- Test steering and propulsion systems.
- Verify alarm panels and emergency shutdown systems.
5. Final Confirmation
- Log the handover details in the engine room records.
- Ensure the bridge is informed of any concerns.
- Take full responsibility for the watch and remain alert.
how do you operate an oily water seperator
Operating an Oily Water Separator (OWS) is essential for complying with environmental regulations and preventing pollution. Here’s a general procedure:
1. Pre-Operation Checks
- Get permission from the bridge—ensure the duty officer is aware.
- Unlock the overboard discharge valve (if required) and ensure it is properly secured.
- Check bilge tank levels—ensure there is enough oily water for processing.
- Inspect filters and separators—confirm they are clean and functional.
- Verify power supply—ensure the control panel and monitoring system are operational.
2. Starting the OWS
- Open necessary valves—bilge tank suction, separator inlet, and discharge.
- Start the OWS pump—begin transferring oily water into the separator.
- Monitor the Oil Content Monitor (OCM)—ensure oil levels remain below 15 ppm.
- Observe the discharge sample—check for clarity and oil traces.
- Adjust flow rate—optimize separation efficiency.
3. Monitoring During Operation
- Check pressure gauges—ensure proper flow and separation.
- Inspect alarms—respond to any high oil content warnings.
- Monitor bilge tank levels—prevent overflows or dry running.
- Ensure proper discharge—confirm clean water is being released overboard.
4. Stopping the OWS
- Flush the system—run fresh or seawater through the separator for 10 minutes.
- Drain separated oil—manually discharge collected oil into the sludge tank.
- Turn off power—shut down the control panel and pump.
- Close all valves—secure bilge suction and discharge lines.
- Log the operation—record details in the
Oil Record Book.
how does an fuel spinner work and why do we change gravity discs
A fuel spinner, commonly known as a centrifugal purifier, works by using centrifugal force to separate contaminants like water and sludge from fuel. Here’s how it operates:
- Fuel enters the purifier and is spun at high speed.
- Centrifugal force pushes heavier contaminants (water, sludge) outward, while clean fuel remains in the center.
- Separated impurities are discharged, and purified fuel continues to the engine.
Why Change Gravity Discs?
Gravity discs control the separation process by adjusting the interface between fuel and water. They need to be changed when:
- Fuel density changes—different fuels require different disc sizes.
- Separation efficiency drops—if water or sludge isn’t being removed effectively.
- Wear or damage occurs—old discs can affect performance.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal fuel purification and engine protection.
Before departure, steering gear checks ensure safe navigation and compliance with SOLAS regulations
Before departure, steering gear checks ensure safe navigation and compliance with SOLAS regulations. Here’s what needs to be tested:
1. Functional Tests
- Main & auxiliary steering gear—confirm both systems operate correctly.
- Remote control systems—test bridge controls for responsiveness.
- Emergency power supply—verify backup systems function properly.
- Rudder angle indicators—ensure alignment with actual rudder position.
2. Alarm & Safety Checks
- Power failure alarms—confirm alerts for steering gear malfunctions.
- Automatic isolating arrangements—test emergency shutdown features.
- Communication system—check bridge-to-steering gear room connectivity.
3. Physical Inspection
- Hydraulic oil levels—ensure adequate supply for smooth operation.
- Linkages & connections—inspect for wear, leaks, or damage.
- Greasing points—verify lubrication of moving parts.
4. Rudder Movement Test
- Full rudder swing—move from hard port to hard starboard and record response time.
- Compare with manufacturer specs—ensure movement is within acceptable limits.
5. Documentation & Final Confirmation
- Log all tests—record results in the ship’s logbook.
- Bridge notification—confirm readiness before departure.
These checks prevent steering failures and ensure safe maneuvering at sea.
What is an EDG
Emergency Diesel Generator. It is a backup power source designed to provide electricity in case of a main generator failure. The EDG ensures critical systems like navigation, communication, and emergency lighting remain operational during power outages.
Do you have an OMD on board
oil mist dector
No, according to SOLAS only required medium and high speed diesel engines over 2250KW or cylinders more then 300mm bore to have them along with the automatic shut-off arrangements including the consequences of overriding them.
this doesn’t apply to the vessels I work on.
The oil mist dectector goes off on passpage. What are your actions?
My immidate action would follow the emergency procedure laid out in the SMS on board regarding this alarm. which would include
- Shut down engine if safe to do so after notifying bridge
- Sound alarm, inform the master
- Muster (expect the master to muster, headcount)
- Start fire pump
- Pressurise fire main
- Start emergency generator
- Standby fire suppression system
- Let engine cool down, engaging turning heat or allowing lube oil pump to continuously run, as it will further increase cooling and reduce formation of hotspots or engine siezure
Follow up
* And then crankcase inspection
* Enclosed space entry
* Complete a incident report to master and management.
What other protections do you have for crack case explosions then if not fitted with OMD
To prevent crankcase explosions, several safety measures are in place:
1. Crankcase Explosion Relief Valves explosion door
- These valves release excess pressure in case of an explosion, preventing structural damage.
2. Bearing Wear Monitoring Systems
- Detect abnormal bearing temperatures or vibrations, preventing overheating.
4. Shaftline Earthing Devices
- Reduce static electricity buildup, minimizing ignition risks.
5. Water-in-Oil Monitoring Systems
- Identify water contamination in lubricating oil, which can lead to poor lubrication and overheating.
Explain how you would enter into a confined space
I would check my onboard procedure for confinded space entry.
1. Pre-Entry Precautions
- Risk Assessment – Identify hazards such as toxic gases, low oxygen, or fire risks.
- Permit to Work – Obtain authorization before entry.
- Ventilation – Ensure proper airflow to remove harmful gases.
- Atmosphere Testing – Use gas detectors to check oxygen levels and detect toxic gases.
- Emergency Plan – Prepare rescue equipment and assign standby personnel.
2. Entry Procedure
- Wear PPE – Use breathing apparatus if required.
- Controlled Access – Only authorized personnel should enter.
- Continuous Monitoring – Regularly check atmosphere conditions.
- Communication – Maintain contact with standby personnel outside.
3. Exit & Post-Entry Checks
- Safe Exit – Ensure all personnel leave safely.
- Re-Test Atmosphere – Confirm conditions remain stable.
- Log Entry Details – Record findings and any incidents.
How does an earth fault monitor work.
How do you find a earth fault
1. Continuous Monitoring
- The system applies a small DC voltage to measure insulation resistance.
- If resistance drops below a set threshold, it indicates a possible earth fault.
2. Fault Detection Methods
- Indicator Lamps – Three-phase systems use lamps that dim or brighten based on fault location.
- Ohm Meter – Measures insulation resistance directly, triggering alarms if values are too low.
3. Troubleshooting an Earth Fault
- Check the alarm panel – Identify the affected circuit.
- Use an insulation tester – Measure resistance between conductors and ground.
- Inspect wiring – Look for damaged insulation or moisture ingress.
- Isolate circuits – Disconnect sections systematically to pinpoint the fault.
you find an earth fault but isolating section by section of the vessel until you see the reading on the monitoring system restores to normal levels. then you go to that section on board and turn off all the breakers the turn them on one at a time until you find the circuit with the issue.
Common faults are boilers, engine room fan, pumps that run continously.
How to parallel generators?
Paralleling generators ensures a stable and efficient power supply by synchronizing multiple units when demand is high.
1. Pre-Synchronization Checks
- Ensure generators have matching voltage, frequency, and phase sequence.
- Verify load-sharing capability to prevent overloads.
- Check fuel levels and cooling systems for operational readiness.
2. Synchronization Process
- Use a synchroscope or dark-bright lamp method to align phase angles.
- Adjust the incoming generator’s speed to match the running generator.
- Slowly increase voltage to equalize with the bus bar.
3. Connecting to the Bus Bar
- Once synchronized, close the circuit breaker to parallel the generators.
- Monitor load distribution to ensure balanced sharing.
- Adjust governor and AVR settings for stable operation.
4. Post-Connection Monitoring
- Continuously check voltage, frequency, and load-sharing.
- Watch for fluctuations or instability and adjust settings if needed.
- Log the operation for maintenance records.
How do you test lube oil pressure sensors
& coolant temp probs
Lube Oil Pressure Sensor:
- Visual check – Inspect for leaks or damage.
- Compare readings – Use a pressure gauge to verify sensor output.
- Multimeter test – Check voltage or resistance for accuracy.
Coolant Temp Probe:
- Resistance check – Use a multimeter at different temperatures.
- Boiling water test – Observe response in hot water.
- Wiring check – Inspect for corrosion or loose connections.
What switchboard protections for generators are there, and how do you test the reverse power trip?
Switchboard Protections for Generators
Generators on a ship are protected by various systems to prevent electrical faults and ensure safe operation. Common protections include:
- Overcurrent Protection – Trips the generator if excessive current flows.
- Reverse Power Protection – Prevents the generator from acting as a motor.
- Earth Fault Protection – Detects insulation failures and leakage currents.
- Under/Over Voltage Protection – Ensures voltage remains within safe limits.
- Differential Protection – Detects internal faults in the generator windings.
-
Negative Phase Sequence Protection – Prevents overheating due to unbalanced loads.
over/under frequency
check syncroniser
Testing the Reverse Power Trip
Reverse power occurs when a generator starts consuming power instead of supplying it. To test the reverse power trip:
- Reduce Load – Gradually decrease the generator’s load while keeping it synchronized.
- Adjust Governor – Lower the fuel supply to simulate reverse power conditions.
- Monitor Protection Relay – Observe the reverse power relay settings.
- Trip Verification – Ensure the generator trips when reverse power exceeds the set threshold (typically 2-5% of rated power).
- Reset & Log – Record test results and reset the system.
Explain the SMS
The Safety Management System (SMS) on board a yacht or ship is a structured framework designed to ensure safe operations and environmental protection. It is a key component of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and includes:
- Emergency Procedures – Guidelines for handling fires, flooding, and other emergencies.
- Safety & Environmental Policies – Measures to protect crew, passengers, and marine ecosystems.
- Operational Procedures – Standardized steps for navigation, maintenance, and cargo handling. Risk assesment, permits to work.
- Incident Reporting – Protocols for documenting accidents and non-conformities.
- Crew Responsibilities – Defined roles and communication structures between ship and shore.
What are the requirement for discharging water from an oily water seperator
Discharging water from an Oily Water Separator (OWS) must comply with MARPOL Annex I regulations to prevent marine pollution. Key requirements include:
- Oil Content Limit – The discharged water must contain no more than 15 ppm of oil.
- Ship Must Be En Route – Discharge is only allowed when the vessel is moving, not at anchor or in port.
- Approved OWS System – The separator must meet IMO standards and be properly maintained.
- No Cargo Residue Mixing – Oil-water mixtures from cargo pump-room bilges on tankers cannot be discharged.
- Special Area Restrictions – In certain regions like the Antarctic, all oily water discharge is strictly prohibited.
What is MARPOL
MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is a global maritime treaty established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to prevent pollution from ships. It consists of six annexes, each addressing different types of marine pollution:
-
Annex I – Oil Pollution Prevention
- Regulates the discharge of oil and oily mixtures.
- Requires ships to have Oil Record Books and Oily Water Separators.
- SOPEP plan / equipment
-
Annex II – Noxious Liquid Substances
- Controls pollution from hazardous chemicals transported in bulk.
- Establishes discharge limits and reception facility requirements.
- Annex III – Harmful Substances in Packaged Form
-
Annex IV – Sewage Pollution Prevention
- Regulates sewage discharge from ships.
- Requires treatment systems and sets discharge limits based on proximity to land.
-
Annex V – Garbage Disposal Regulations
- Controls waste disposal, including plastics, food waste, and operational residues.
-
Annex VI – Air Pollution Prevention
- Limits emissions of sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and greenhouse gases.
- Introduces Emission Control Areas (ECAs) with stricter air pollution standards.
What is a special areas
A Special Area under MARPOL is a designated sea region where stricter environmental protection measures apply due to its oceanographic, ecological, and traffic conditions. These areas require enhanced pollution control for oil, sewage, garbage, and other pollutants.
Examples of Special Areas
- Mediterranean Sea
- Baltic Sea
- Antarctic Waters
- Red Sea & Gulf Areas
- North West European Waters
These regions have stricter discharge limits to prevent marine pollution
Explain the check on a BA suit for confident space entry on board ship
Before entering a confined space on board, a Breathing Apparatus (BA) suit must be thoroughly checked to ensure safety. Here’s a structured approach:
1. Visual Inspection
- Check for tears, damage, or wear on the suit.
- Ensure zippers, seals, and straps are intact.
2. Breathing Apparatus Check
- Inspect the cylinder pressure—it should be fully charged.
- Verify the face mask seal—no leaks or cracks.
- Test the demand valve—ensure proper airflow.
3. Communication & Alarm Systems
- Confirm radio or communication devices are functional.
- Test low-pressure warning alarms on the BA set.
4. Fit & Comfort Test
- Wear the suit and adjust straps for a secure fit.
- Perform a breathing test to check airflow consistency.
5. Final Safety Confirmation
- Ensure backup personnel are ready for emergency response.
- Log the pre-entry checks before proceeding.
What is ECA (SECA)
A Sulphur Emission Control Area (SECA) is a designated maritime zone where stricter regulations apply to limit sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions from ships. SECA zones are part of the broader Emission Control Areas (ECAs) under MARPOL Annex VI, requiring vessels to use fuel with a maximum sulphur content of 0.10% or adopt alternative compliance methods like scrubbers or low-sulphur fuels.
Key SECA Zones
- Baltic Sea
- North Sea and English channel
- North American ECA (U.S. & Canada coastal waters)
- United States Caribbean ECA (Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands)
- Mediterranean Sea (effective May 2025)
