Typical AMSA Oral Questions

Typical AMSA Orals Questions
Joining a vessel as master, what would you do what do you observe?

Condition of mooring lines
Visible parts of the ship structure
Draft marks
Condition of gangway
Show ID at gangway watch (ISPS)
Condition of any LSA on the way to the Masters cabin
Take note of any cargo operations
What certificates would you expect to see and what is their validity?
Cargo Ship Safety Construction 5 years
Cargo Ship Safety Radio 5 years
Cargo Ship Safety Equipment 5 years
IOPP 5 years
Load Line 5 years
Document of Compliance 5 years
Safety Management 5 years
Safety Manning Indefinite
Tonnage Indefinite
Registration Indefinite
What do you expect to find in a safety induction?

Location and use of LSA
Muster Location & Alarms
Duties required
SMS Policies (permit to work, no drugs or alcohol etc)
Operation and location of safety equipment
Walk-through vessel
Ships communications & emergency GMDSS
Standing orders
Fire alarm system
Safety plans
Vessels ISPS procedures & requirements
What marine orders deal with cargo handling equipment?

Marine Orders 32 (Cargo Handling Equipment)
Does the crane used for loading stores come under MO32?
Yes, all lifting equipment on deck comes under MO-32.
You have 2 20t cranes on board where do you find information like the SWL?
SWL should be stamped on the crane and each jib extension
SWL would also be found in the Materials Handling Register
Other information such as tally plates are fixed to the crane
Created by Alex V.J. Steff

Tests and Inspections should be found in the Handling Register
Crane drawings contain data on construction arc of turn & reach
What is proof load and how often is it checked?
It is a test set between the SWL and the Break load of the crane
Tests done every 5 years
How do you Proof Load test a crane?

Initial test to be done by using movable weights;
After any renewal or repair the test must be done by either movable weights or a
by use of a spring or hydraulic balance or similar approved appliance;
The Proof Test and through examination by a surveyor is to be done at intervals
not exceeding 5 years.
Crane must be checked for damage or deformation after each proof load before a
certificate can be issued
What are the proof load requirements?

SWL of Derrick or Crane Proof Load
Not mote than 20t SWL 1.25 tonnes
More than 20t but not more than 50t SWL 5 tonnes
More than 50t SWL 1.1 tonnes
How would you find information on load line zones?

Ocean Passages of the World
Load Line Convention
What publications are found onboard?

ITU Publications
ALRS Publications
Tide Tables
Notice to Mariners
NTM Annual Summary
Almanac
Mariners Handbook
Ocean Passages of the World
SOLAS
MARPOL
STCW-95
GMDSS Radio Log Book
Official Log Book
Deck Log Book
Garbage Record Log
Oil Record Book (E/R)
Sailing Directions
ISM / SMS Manuals

Intact Stability Book
Cargo Securing Manual
SOPEP Manual
IAMSAR Manual (Volume III)
Fire Alarm in the Galley, what would you do?
Send watch keeper (With VHF) to investigate
Muster & head count
Assemble command
Come up with a short term strategy
Refer to Emergency Procedures Manual
Close vents, fire suits, BA, hoses ready etc
C/O in command of fire party as per Muster List Duties
Have C/E in charge of pumps as per Muster List Duties
Maintain open communication
Adjust course and speed to suit conditions
What is certificate of entry?

Proof that the ship owner is covered by insurance in case of an oil pollution spills.
The Guidelines recommend ship owners to ensure that their ships have on board a
certificate issued by the insurer; an appropriately worded P&I Club Certificate of
Entry will meet this recommendation.
Revalidate every Year
Applies to vessels over 400GT
What types of fire fighting equipment is found on board?

Fixed CO 2
Fire Extinguishers
Hoses and Hydrants
SCBA
Fire Suits
What types of fire detectors are on board?

Smoke, Heat & Flame
How many fire hydrants will be on board?

SOLAS requirements state: A vessel must have sufficient hydrants to supply 2 jets of
water anywhere on board the vessel, with one of the hydrants able to reach with one hose
and the second hydrant able to reach with two hoses attached.
What portable extinguishers are on board and what are the survey requirements for each?
Item Inspection Hydrostatic
SCBA Yearly 5yrs
CO 2 Extinguishers Yearly 5yrs
Dry Chemical Extinguishers Yearly 5yrs
Foam Extinguishers Yearly 5yrs

Water Extinguishers Yearly 5yrs
Fixed CO 2 Systems Yearly 10yrs (initial) 5yrs after that
NOTE: If the extinguisher is located in a harsh environment, then the hydrostatic test
may be done every 3 years.
How would you find out your compass error?
Compare with the gyro
Azimuth
Amplitude
Transits if near land
What is the error made up of?

Variation taken from the chart
Deviation caused by the vessels own magnetism
How can Deviation change?

Latitude
Course
Grounding or Collision
Dry-docking and laying in one direction for a several months
Heat from lightening strike or major alterations to ships structure
New electronics or metal too close to the compass
What is the purpose of the liquid in the compass bowl, how do you fix bubble?
To dampen the movement of the card
What would you do if the compass card were moving erratically?

Probably heeling error, so I would raise or lower the bucket to try and stabilise the
movement of the card.
You are loading cargo, Mate comes to you saying the Stevedores wont use crane, and
what do you do?
What are the inspections times or crane wires, how would you change a crane wire?
Wires need to be inspected every six months, change if the wire is crushed, stranded, or
generally looking worn. The swaged eye would not go through the block, so I ran the
wire off the winch and attached a strong rope to the bitter end, pulled the wire back threw
until the rope was reeved through the blocks. Attached the rope to the end of the new
wire and pulled that through until the end was back at the winch
What would you tell the crew to look for in preparation for load line survey?
Check vents and flaps
Check all closing devices
Check watertight and weather tight doors
Check deadlights & portholes

Check scuppers and freeing ports
Check rails & bulwarks
What are type A & B vessels, define a B60 vessel.

TYPE A (Require the least amount of freeboard)
Liquid bulk cargo carriers
Small openings on deck and able to be closed watertight by steel covers
TYPE B (Increased safety measures can bring Type B vessels almost up to Type A
freeboard standard)
Hatch covers (Steel, gaskets & clamps)
Better water freeing arrangements
Improved protection for the crew
Satisfactory subdivisions
B-60: Vessels assigned a basic freeboard reduced by up to 60% of the difference between
a type A and type B.
B-100: A type B vessel adopting type A freeboard assignment, by complying with

increased measures to improve watertightness stability and safety criteria. (Ore Carriers)
What documentation would you receive from the shipper before loading Dangerous
Goods and what info would it contain?
Before any dangerous goods are shipped the shipper must give notice of intention to
ship the goods to the master and to the person prescribed. The manner of giving notice is
by completing a Multi modal Dangerous Goods Form. The originating shipper must
provide a copy to the consolidator and Master and when requested by the surveyor in
Charge. Notice must be given 24hrs prior to the intension to load goods and must
include:
1 - Ship name
2 - IMO #
3 - Port of Loading
4 - Date of Loading and Departure
What is Subsidiary Risk?

Further risks to the Class of DG and listed in column 4 of the DGL
The Subsidiary Risk must be included on the main hazard label
Subsidiary Risk labels do not carry the UN Class number
Explain Limited Quantities

They are dangerous goods of low or medium danger, in small primary containers
and packaged for transport in strong outer packages
Limited quantity packages do not need to show the proper shipping name, but
must have the UN Number of the contents placed within a diamond

Transport documents must contain Proper Shipping Name & UN Number
Labelled with UN Number and must say Limited Quantity
Marine Pollutant P (Max 5 litres)
Severe Marine Pollutant PP under 500g
Packaging as per IMDG
Stowage as per IMDG
Sketch a GZ curve & name all info that can be gathered from it, write down the IMO
Criteria?
Deck Edge Immersion Angle of Flooding

I fp f
Angle of Potential Flooding
GM
Maximum GZ
Wind Heel 40 57.3
Range of Positive Stability

Point of Vanishing Stability
1. Initial Metacentric Height (GM)

2. Maximum GZ
3. Range of Positive Stability
4. Point of Vanishing Stability
5. Angle of deck Edge Immersion
6. Angle of Potential Down-flooding
7. Angle of Down-flooding
8. Wind Effect
9. Residual Stability
10. Area under the curve (Up to whatever angle you require)
11. Angle of heel for maximum GZ
12. Angle of Loll

Where would you find the info on your FWA?
Ships Intact Stability Book
Load Line Certificate
What do you know about ARPA & its errors?

Target swap
Gyro heading input
Accuracy / 0.5nm (due to beam width & pulse length errors)
Pixels (screen type)
GPS input errors
What is the DWA formula?

DWA = FWA (1025 Dock Water) (Answer: mm)
25
What information is contained in the Stability Booklet?

Worked examples
IMO Criteria
Hydrostatic Tables
Lightship Condition
Tank Summary
KN Values
Inclining Experiment Report
Freeboard & Immersion Diagrams
What is done in the inclining experiment? What are they trying to find?
A plumbline is located on the centreline of the ship and the vessel is inclined
using known fixed weights and distances
The objective of the inclining experiment is to obtain the Lightship Displacement,
VCG and LCG;
These Lightship characteristics are the basis of every loading condition calculated
for the ship.
What are the employers obligations under the OH&S act?

Employers must provide and maintain a working environment where employees are not
exposed to hazards. This includes the following:
Risk assessment
Safety systems of work
Provide information, instruction, training & supervision
PPE
Safe plant and substances
Reporting of accidents & hazards

Does a ship have to have a Health and Safety Representative?
NO. Only if the crew requests one
What types of charts are there?

Mercator (Rhumb Line)
Gnomonic Chart (Great Circle)
Isogonic Chart (Lines of Variation)
What is the difference between voyage plan & passage plan?
CONTENTS OF A PASSAGE PLAN:
Alerts & Call Points
Courses
Waypoints
Contingency Anchorages
Abort Points
Parallel index lines
Tidal information
Pilot & Port information
Navigation Warnings
CONTENTS OF A VOYAGE PLAN:
Fuel consumption
Passage plan information
Stores
Stability calculations
Contingencies
Cargo information
Charter requirements
Drafts
What are the steps of Passage Planning?

Appraisal
Planning
Execution
Monitoring
Updating
Archive
What is the purpose of ISM, what are DOC, SMC and survey requirements for each, who
issues, what is masters responsibility?
The Document of Compliance is the Certificate issued to the company after a
successful audit of the company office management on the aspects of safety
management. The original is kept in the office and a copy is kept on board. (Valid
5 years).
The Safety Management Certificate is issued to the ship after the company has
received the DOC and the ship has been successfully audited. (Valid for 5 years
audit every 2 to 3 years)

What do you know about ECDIS? What are the requirements for use?
Must have approved hardware
Approved Software
Approved Vector Charts
Approved Backup System
Proper Training
Explain Bridge Resource Management and also about the Pilots roll in the bridge team.
Master and Pilot pooling their skills and training to work the bridge as a team for
the common navigation safety of the ship.
Pilot is part of the bridge team
The roles of each team member are clearly defined, and they interact with each
other.
The Master oversees the operation of the team in executing the passage plan.
The bridge team works together as a team for the common navigation safety of
the ship
Communication should be closed loop
Challenge and Response
Master has overall responsibility
What is a Condition of Class and how do you remove it?

For a vessel to have a certificate of class it must maintain a certain standard. If a
deficiency is found relating to that standard, then a class surveyor will issue a condition
of class stating three things:
1. The item that has been given the condition of class
2. The recommended way in which to rectify the fault
3. The time period in which to get it done
Once the fault has been rectified and the surveyor views the job and is happy, he will lift
the condition of class.
Collision Regulations Rule10

Traffic Separation Schemes (Not to Impede)
What are the ARPA requirements?

Minimum screen diameter of 340mm.
Raster Scan display only.
Manually and automatically acquire and track at least 20 targets.
Must have both True and Relative vectors with the length operator adjustable.
Must have North Up and Course Up presentations.
Provide course, speed, CPA, TCPA range and bearing of tracked targets.
Full accuracy of tracked targets data available after 3 minutes.
Operator alarms and alerts must be fitted.
Trial manoeuvre facility must be fitted

Past track history must be available for all tracked targets.
ISM masters responsibility.

Implement the safety & environmental-protection policy of the company
Motivating crew in the observation of the ISM/SMS
Reviewing SMS and reporting deficiencies to shore management
Safety construction survey what is checked?

The state of the external hull especially in the area of the air-water interface;
Thickness of steel on decks and bulkheads;
Overboard discharge lines and valves;
Ships side fittings;
Rudder when in dry dock;
Any steam generators, supply to water tube boilers and main steam propulsion, and
the means of maintaining power in the event of boiler failure;
Stern tube and shafting fitted with continuous lining;
Propeller shaft fitted with continuous lining;
The ships structure, machinery and equipment to ensure that they comply with the
Navigation Act and Marine Orders in that they are in a satisfactory condition and fit
for their intended service.
Fire protection type A, type B bulkheads.

A CLASS: Constructed of steel or equivalent material and are capable of preventing the
passage of smoke and flame to the end of a one-hour standard fire test.
B CLASS: Divisions are those, which are constructed as to be capable of preventing

the passage of flame to the end of half an hour of the standard fire test.
C CLASS: Divisions are constructed of approved incombustible materials but do not

need to meet with any specified requirements relative to passage of smoke and flame nor
temperature rise.
Container floating in the water actions reporting procedures.

Plot position
Record details of container if possible
All Ships SECURITAY message
Notify nearest RCC
Log events in deck log
UMS, What are the requirements?

Emergency stops and over-ride buttons on the bridge
Automatic fire detection

Emergency batteries or generator to start when power fails
Approved planned maintenance system in place
Visual and audible engine room alarms in engine space, bridge and duty
engineers cabin
Fire control remote away from any engine space
Essential machinery (pumps, steering etc) to be capable of local and hand control
Control room
Sufficient manning in case UMS fails
How do you calculate free surface?

FWA = Displacement (Answer: mm)
4 TPC
When should the compass be swung and by whom?

Only swung by a licensed compass adjustor
After being in dry-dock or laid up on one heading for a long period
After major structural work
After lightening strike
After fire
After collision or grounding
If the error is greater than 5
Radar plot
Plot a target (Full report) & Alteration of course or speed by own ship
Pre-departure checks.
Checklist is per company SMS procedures
Check all electronics
Steering check
Passage plan
Tides
Cargo secure
Engines on standby
Drills types and frequencies of drills.

FIRE Monthly
COLLISION Monthly
ABANDON SHIP Monthly
SOPEP Monthly
RESCUE BOAT Monthly
MARINE EVACUATION SYSTEM 2 Yearly
LIFE BOAT 3 Months
DAVIT LAUNCH LIFERAFTS 4 months

EMERGENCY STEERING 3 Months
GENERAL MUSTER Within 24hrs of departure or if more than
25% of the crew have changed
As Master, under what circumstances would you expect to be called during cargo
operations?
Start or completion of cargo operations
If any problems arose
During critical stability or loading periods
If the agent, charterer, customs etc requested my presence
If any change in weather was expected or encountered
Can either the IMO or UN numbers be changed if a vessel changes owners?

IMO Numbers are permanent and do not usually change
Official Numbers can change with a change of Registry
Steps for involved in loading a ship with grain

Give at least 72 hours, Notice of Intention to Load Grain on Form MO33/1;
AMSA surveyor attends vessel to sight and check documentation;
Department of Primary Industry attends vessel;
If cargo spaces need treatment, then a Treatment Order will be issued. If not treated,
then a Grain Loading Permit will not be issued;
Vessel loads grain;
Notify AMSA when loading is completed;
AMSA checks loading is as per the GA Form;
Vessel free to sail.
Calculate when it is safe to pass under a bridge (Standard or Secondary port)

Practical exercise
Where are the two oil books found on vessels and what is recorded in them?
Oil Record Book PART I: deals with Machinery spaces (Applies to vessels over
400GT & Tankers over 150GT)
Oil Record Book PART II: deals with Cargo / Ballast operations for tankers
(Applies to Tankers over 150GT)
What is a garbage management plan?

Applies to all vessels over 400GT or vessels carrying over 15 persons
It is a MARPOL requirement
Should be vessel specific
Covers ship on board procedures for preventing pollution by garbage
What is a recorded in the garbage register?

Time and Date

Position / Location
Type and amount of Garbage
How it was disposed of (ashore, incinerated, overboard etc)
What is the IMO number and who issues it?

Issued by the Flag State
Applies to all Passenger vessels over 100GT & Cargo ships over 300GT
It is the ships permanent identification number adopted by IMO
It remains unchanged for the life of the vessel, even if it changes flag
Load Line, Conditions of assignment for freeboard.

The condition of freeboard is part of your Load Line assignment and relates to the
location, height and number of scuppers, portholes, openings, air pipes, vents, rails etc.
CONDITIONS OF ASSIGNMENT FOR FREEBOARD
1) General: The structural strength will be sufficient for the freeboards to be assigned.
2) Superstructure End Bulkheads: The height of sills of openings at the ends of enclosed
superstructures should be at least 380mm above the deck.
3) Hatchways closed by Portable Covers with Tarpaulins: Coamings with a height
above the deck of at least 600mm on exposed freeboard (Position 1) and 450mm on
exposed superstructure decks (Position 2).
4) Hatchways closed by Weather-tight Steel Covers: Coaming heights are as for those
hatchways with portable beams.
5) Machinery Space Openings: Steel doors to be fitted for access should have the sills at
least 600mm above the deck (Position 1). And should have the sills at least 380mm above
the deck in (Position 2).
6) Other Openings in Freeboard and Superstructure Deck Manholes: In positions 1 &
2, the enclosed superstructures should have substantial weather-tight covers. Other
openings, to be enclosed by a superstructure or deckhouse. Doors for access to be made
of steel.
7) Ventilators: Should have steel coamings and when exceeding 900mm, should be
supported. In (Position 1) ventilator coamings to be 900mm above deck, and (Position 2)
760mm above deck.
8) Air Pipes: Height from the deck to be 760mm on freeboard deck and 450mm on
superstructure decks.
9) Cargo Ports and other Side Openings: Below the freeboard deck to be fitted with
watertight doors to ensure the ships structural integrity.
10) Scuppers, Inlets and Discharges: Discharges through shell from spaces below the
freeboard deck fitted with weather-tight doors should be fitted with automatic non-return
valves, with a means of closing provided above the freeboard deck.

Scuppers and discharge pipes penetrating the shell between 450mm below the freeboard
deck and 600mm above the summer waterline to be fitted with an automatic non-return
valve.
11) Side Scuttles (portholes): Fitted with efficient hinged, watertight, inside deadlights.
No side scuttle to be fitted with its sill below (2.5% of the ships breadth above the
summer water-line or 500mm), whichever is greater.
12) Freeing Ports: Minimum freeing port area to comply as per given formula. Lower
edges to be as near the deck as possible. Openings in bulwarks to be protected by bars.
13) Protection of Crew: Efficient guard-rails or bulwarks of minimum height 1 metre.
Maximum vertical spacing between deck and lower rail is 230mm and between other
rails is 380mm.
What is the Official Number and who issues it?

Issued by an Authorised Class Society
The number can change if the ship changes flag registry
What is the purpose of ISM?
It provides an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and
for the pollution of the environment.
Who issues the ISM certificate?

The ISM Certificate is issued by the Flag State, by issue of the Document of Compliance
to the company and then in turn will issue a Safety Management Certificate to the Vessel.
What would the procedure for a new crewmember joining the vessel be?
Check qualifications and medical
Safety Induction
Standing orders
Sign on
Are inductions legally required?

As part of a working Safety Management System, inductions are usually conducted,
however it is a legal requirement under the OH&S (Maritime) Act.
Where would you find this information?

Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime) Act
What markings are on a cargo crane?

SWL on the crane and any extensions like the jib
Can you exceed the SWL for a one of lift?

Yes, only if you request an occasional lift from AMSA and follow the correct procedures
What is a proof load limit on a cargo crane?

Proof load is between the SWL and the destructive load.

Can a proof load on a cargo crane be exceeded?
No
Stability criteria for Grain cargoes

After taking into account the heeling moments due to grain shift:
Angle of heel due to grain shift shall not be greater than 12 degrees; for vessel built
before 01/01/94; In the case of ships built after 01/01/94, the angle of deck edge
immersion; whichever is the least;
The initial GMf shall not be less than 0.3m;
In the statical stability diagram, the residual area between the heeling arm curve, and
the righting arm curve up to the angle of heel of the maximum difference between the
ordinates of the two curves, or 40 degrees, whichever is the least, shall in all
conditions of loading be not less than 4.3 metre degrees (0.075m.rad);
The vessel must be upright before departure.
In what circumstances would you expect to be called by the OOW as Master?

If he is in doubt
As per the standing orders or night orders
Restricted visibility
Increased vessel traffic
Approaching landfall
Pilot arrival
Any problems (alarms, distress alert, etc)
What would you expect of your bridge watch keepers while en-route?
Follow standing & night orders
Call me if in doubt
Maintain a good lookout
Follow the passage plan
Regular position fixes and plotting on the chart
Long range and short range scanning of radar
Watchman on regular safety rounds
What would you do if the compass card were moving erratically?

This is probably heeling error, so I would raise or lower the bucket to try and stabilise the
movement of the card.
What markings would you find on a crane?

SWL on the crane and SWL at each reach of the jib.
When and how would you change a crane wire?

Wires need to be inspected every six months, change if the wire is crushed, stranded, or
generally looking worn. The swaged eye would not go through the block, so I ran the
wire off the winch and attached a strong rope to the bitter end, pulled the wire back threw

until the rope was reeved through the blocks. Attached the rope to the end of the new
wire and pulled that through until the end was back at the winch.
Describe a Submarine Indicator Buoy and where I would find information on it.
Painted International Rescue Green and made of aluminium and cylindrical in shape,
68cm in diameter and 47cm deep. A 13mm diameter wire mooring line is attached. It
has a light attached that flashes twice every second for at least 7 days, visibility 3200
metres. A ring of cats eyes around the base of the light. The buoy carries a whip
aerial.
Carries a serial number (049), affixed under the words forward and aft, with
instructions for the finder to inform the Navy, Police, Coastguard, DO NOT SECURE
TO OR TOUCH.
Fitted with an auto transmitting radio unit operating on 4340 kHz.
Incorporates the latest type of radio unit on UHF CW radio beacon operating on a
frequency of 243 MHz for UHF homing equipment
Transmits to AUSSAR. Information is located in the Annual Notice to Mariners
What are the employers obligations under the OH&S act?

Employers must provide and maintain a working environment where employees are not
exposed to hazards. This includes the following:
Risk assessment
Safety systems of work
Provide information, instruction, training & supervision
PPE
Safe plant and substances
Reporting of accidents & hazards
How would I correct an Angle of Loll?

1. Find the cause of the angle of loll (Dip all tanks on board to see if it is a list)
2. If he loll is due to slack tanks then correct this situation starting with filling the slack
tanks on the low side
3. If due to weight loss below, or excess of weight on deck, consider filling a suitable
low side ballast tank
4. Before filing, calculate the increase angle of loll with this tank slack to ensure that
the vessel is still safe during the filing process
5. And calculate the position of the centre of gravity with this tank filled
6. Provided the vessel is still safe and you can prove that the centre of gravity will
move below the metacentre with the filling operation, commence fill the low side
tank
7. Quite possibly more than one low side tank may be required, in which case keep the
free surface to a minimum by filling no more than one tank at a time
8. Once your calculations have proved that the ship is again in positive stability despite
now in a listed state, go ahead and fill the high side tank to correct the listed state, go
ahead and fill the high side tank (s) to correct the list
9. If the loll cannot be corrected by filling ballast tanks alone then you must consider
jettisoning deck cargo, again if possible, try to remove cargo from the high side first

(not always easy)
10. Whatever method used to correct an angle of loll you must avoid letting the vessel
flop from side to side, this can be dangerous. Use the wind and sea state to
advantage in keeping the vessel lolled to the one side during the correction process.
Can you submerge the summer load line when loading cargo?
You can load below your summer load line, as long as you are in dock water and you will
not be below your marks when you reach open water.
You find the third officer asleep on watch, what do you do?
Have a quiet chat to him, check to see if he is having any problems with his workload,
check to make sure he is getting the required rest under STCW working hours, he could
have a medical problem beginning to occur. I would keep a good eye on him and maybe
stand his watch for a few days while he goes onto day work.
What is the purpose of ISM?

It provides an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and
for the pollution of the environment.
Echo sounder broken down what would I do?

Avoid shallow areas (Alter passage plan if necessary)
Update standing orders and notify bridge team
Organise repairs for next port call
Note events in ships deck log book
What entry is made in the Oil LB?

Completed on a tank-to-tank basis
Ballasting or cleaning of oil fuel tanks
Disposal of oily residues (sludge)
Discharge of dirty ballast or cleaning water from tanks
Loading of oil cargo
Internal transfer of oil cargo during voyage
Unloading of oil cargo
Ballasting of cargo tanks and dedicated clean ballast tanks
Cleaning of cargo tanks including crude oil washing
Discharge of ballast except from segregated ballast tanks
Discharge of water from slop tanks
The discharge of bilge water, which has accumulated in machinery spaces
Closing of all applicable valves or similar devices after slop tank discharge
operations
Closing of valves necessary for isolation of dedicated clean
Ballast tanks from cargo and stripping lines after slop tank discharge operations

Who can endorse the Certificate of registry?
Flag State
Customs Official
Australian Consul (When outside the flag state)
What is a shell expansion plan? How are plates identified?

It identifies all the ships shell plating
It is numbered from the Aft to the Forward, from the keel plate up to the sheer
strake
Surveyor wants to enter cable locker now! Do you let him?

No one can enter the chain locker without doing an Enclosed Space Entry Permit and
testing the atmosphere first.
Under what certificate do anchors come under?

The Certificate of Class
How often is extinguisher testing required?

Annual Inspection
5 Yearly Testing (Hydrostatic)
If extinguisher is located in a severe environment 3 Yearly Testing (Hydrostatic)
Commence loading general cargo. How will I identify securing arrangements?

In the cargo securing manual
The charterer has a lift that is 3 tonnes over your cranes SWL; will you lift it on board?
Can request a shore crane or seek approval for an occasional lift
Describe difference between ISM DOC and SMC

The ISM applies to Class I, II & IIA passenger vessels of any tonnage, vessels over
500GT and vessels on international voyages. The objective of is to provide safe practice,
safe working environment, improve safety management skills and avoid damage to the
environment. Part of the ISM, is to have a Safety Management System in place.
The Document of Compliance is the Certificate issued to the company after a successful
audit of the company office management on the aspects of safety management. The
original is kept in the office and a copy is kept on board. (Valid 5 years).
The Safety Management Certificate is issued to the ship after the company has received
the DOC and the ship has been successfully audited. (Valid for 5 years audit every 2 to
3 years)
Can anyone be a person in charge?

A person, other than the master, undertaking to load or unload a ship at
a port in Australia must, before commencement of that undertaking, appoint a

person or persons in charge of the undertaking.
Note: Where the 'person' undertaking loading or unloading is a firm or
company, that firm or company must make the appointment.
A person making an appointment under 9.1.1 must provide to the master
of the ship written notification of the appointment or appointments.
A person in charge must enter in a logbook:
(a) the time at which he or she commences each period of duty as person in
charge; and
(b) the time of termination of each such period of duty.
Receive message, destination port changed, what would you instruct 2nd mate to do with
regards new voyage plan?
Conduct a quick appraisal of distance; seasonal zones etc for comparison with
original passage planso as to amend bunkers, victualling water& stores orders
etc.
Then conduct review of plan once publications and charts are consulted.
Who is a Responsible Person?

A responsible person in relation to Materials Handling Equipment is responsible
to:
The Manufacturer of that equipment;
A Classification Society;
A competent Testing Establishment; for carrying out any testing and associated
thorough examination and issuing certificates of test in respect of that equipment
as required by M.O. Part 32;
The owner or Master of the ship;
The owner of the shore equipment.
What is an Isogonic chart and what do you used it for?

An isogonic chart shows lines of equal variation
It is used to work out variation on ocean passages, where there are no dedicated
charts with the relevant variation information to correct the magnetic compass
What is a Gnomonic chart and what do you used it for?

A Gnomonic chart is used to work out your great circle course
A straight line on a gnomonic chart represents a great circle distance
Used for navigation in high latitudes
What is a Mercator chart?

All straight lines are rhumb lines
Distortion at high latitudes
Straight lines cross all meridians at right angles

IMO stability criteria
Area under the G f Z curve (030) Minimum 3.15 metre degrees
Area under the G f Z curve (up to 40) Minimum 5.16 metre degrees
Area under the G f Z curve (3040) or Angle of Flooding Minimum 1.72 metre
degrees
Righting lever (G f Z) to be at least 0.20 metres at 30 or greater
Maximum G f Z preferably exceeding 30, but not less than 25
Initial G f M is not to be less than 0.15 metres
Seasonal zones describe them and their relation to you load line.
Tropical Fresh
Fresh
Tropical
Summer
Winter
Winter North Atlantic
Collision Regulations Rule 19

Conduct of vessels in Restricted Visibility
Third mate keeps calling you to the bridge; do I think it is excessive?

As Master, I would be worried if the mate did not call me if he was in doubt
Buy calling me regularly, I would be able to realise any weaknesses and could
work on educating and correcting these at a later stage
What does the flinders bar do and what does it compensate?

The Flinders Bar acts a bit like a sphere forward of the compass bowl. It also affects
heeling error, and can be magnetised with the fore and aft and the athwartships magnets.
The heeling error magnets often induce poles in the top of the Flinders bar, causing
coefficient Permanent B. It is important that the Flinders Bar is positioned before the
spheres, and all the permanent magnets.
What is the apparent cause of Coefficient A?

1. It is usually a mechanical, physical or human error in that the compass itself has
been poorly sighted on the vessel by not being on the centre line;
2. Has been sighted on the centre line but slewed to one side;
3. Substandard manufacture with the magnetic needles under the compass card not
aligned parallel;
4. Lubber line not on fore and aft line;
5. Faulty azimuth mirror;
6. Wrong variation applied.
What are the REAL causes of Coefficient A?

1. Unsymmetrical Horizontal Soft Iron (HSI). Athwartships by a +/- b rod, and
a +/- d rod for Fore & Aft;

2. In practice this is only a problem on specialist ships where the compass is not
sighted on the centre line such as on an Aircraft Carrier;
3. Coefficient A causes the same constant deviation on all headings and is
therefore allowed for in the deviation card.
Can plastic be discharged into the sea? Can it be burnt and then discharged?
No plastics of any kind may be discharged into the sea unless it is done for
securing the safety of the ship
Plastics such as PVCs can only be burnt by IMO approved incinerators and that
operation of the incinerator is carried out by a trained person
What is covered in the garbage record log?

Vessel Name and IMO Number
Date
Position
Type of garbage disposed of or landed (food, incinerated ash, general waste etc)
Masters signature at bottom of page
How many fire hoses should a vessel carry?

One for every 30m of vessel length + one spare
BUT no less than 5 (hoses for engine & boiler spaces not included)
What is a Fire Isolation Valve?
This isolates the engine room from the deck.
It is used if access to the engine room is not possible.
The deck-isolating valve can bypass the engine room and then the emergency fire
pump can be used to boundary cool the engine room.
What does Marpol say about discharging garbage at sea?

What are the bridge field of view requirements?
500m or two times the vessel length from the bow
From the conning position, you must not have more than 10 obstruction of view
from masts, cranes etc.
How would you prepare a stowage plan?

Information on cargo load required
Ports of loading and discharge
Any special requirements for cargo
Dimensions and weights
IMDG
Stowage Factor
Broken Stowage
Point Loads & Stack Weights
Trim, Draft & Stability
What crane (Ship or Shore)
Ballasting
Stresses & Bending Moments
What happens to your vessel as it travels from one density of water to another?
You get a change in draft
You get a change in trim due to the change in your water plane, which affects the
position of the LCF
What entry is made on the Certificate of Registry?
Ships Particulars
Engine Particulars
Owners Particulars
Oil Record logs, how many, what vessels, and discharge rates, where and when?
Vessels over 400GT must carry ORB Part 1 (Machinery Spaces)
Tankers over 150GT must carry ORB Part 1 (Machinery Spaces) as well as Part
2 (Cargo Ballast Operations)
Discharge rates are listed in the table below

What are the Forms that come with your Certificates?

Record of Condition of Assignment Load Line Certificate
Form P Passenger Ship Safety Certificate
Form E Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate
Form R Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate
Form C Cargo Ship Safety Certificate
What fire detection systems are onboard, how will you test these if you are in dry dock?
Liase with the docking crew and organise testing of fire alarms and sensors during a time
that does not disrupt the work being carried out during dry dock.
What is the purpose of a Docking Plan?

Location of plugs
Areas not accessible due to keel blocks are marked for access in next dry dock
Identify and minimise damage to hull fittings

Two IMDG items require segregation. Explain segregation procedures.
Items are looked up in the index for Proper Shipping Name & UN Number
The items are located in the Dangerous Goods List (Section 3)
Column 16 in the DGL deals with Stowage and Segregation
Section 7.1 Deals with Stowage
Section 7.2 Deals with Segregation
List the scale of work in the dock, outstanding issues etc.

Surveys (Intermediate, Enhanced or Renewal)
Mechanical work
Structural work
Painting etc
Electrical work
Inspections of stern gear & underwater fittings
What is the International shore connection? What is it for & how is it used?
All vessels over 500GT must carry an International Shore Connection
It has an International fire fitting at one end and on the other end it has a fitting
that can be connected to your vessels fire main.
It is used in case of fire when along side, allowing shore based fire parties to fight
the fire through your fire main.
Magnetic compass has an air bubble in it. How and why should you remove it?
Invert the compass bowl in the gimbal arrangement to bring the expansion chamber
uppermost. Undo the screw cap of the chamber and top up the fluid in the bowl with
distilled water. This action will fill the bowl, forcing out the air bubble.
What causes errors in the compass?

Variation
Deviation
What happens when the ship is laid up for a long period?

The ships magnetic field takes on the properties of the earths magnetic field in that
location. This will affect the compass and it will have to be re-swung.
What are Dangerous Goods?

They are substances that are harmful to life or the environment.
What has the lager pumping capacity: bilge pumps or fire pumps?
The fire pump has a greater pumping capacity
The bilge rate can be increased by using the bilge injection valve or starting up
the general service pump in some vessels
What are Packaging Groups?

Substances are assigned a packing group in accordance with the degree of danger, by
labelling them as I, II or III.

I High Danger
II Medium Danger
III Low Danger
How would you inspect anchors and cables in dock?

Lay out cable and check thickness of links for wear
Hammer test anchor
Look for deformation
Look for freedom of movement (swivel)
Check markings at each shackle of chain
Get an enclosed space entry and check the bitter end
Check for wear and excessive rust
Fire in paint locker explain procedures.

Raise Alarm
Muster & Headcount
Discuss Short Term Strategy with command team
Utilise ships Emergency Procedures Checklist
Fire Party to close vents, boundary cool & activate CO 2
Engine department to man pumps
Alter course and speed if necessary
Constant communications with fire party
What is included in a set of Standing Orders?

A proper lookout shall be kept at all times with no other duties being undertaken
that could interfere with that task
A proper listening watch at all times
The duties of the lookout and helmsman are separate, except on small vessels
where theres an unobstructed all round view
When to be called to the bridge
What watch arrangements are to be kept (as a minimum)
Procedures for taking over a watch
Use of bridge equipment
Comply with SOLAS and Marine Orders
Navigation with a pilot onboard
Additional duties when the ship is at anchor
In an emergency raise the alarm
Enter all appropriate information into the log book
What would you put in Cargo Standing Orders?
Safe environment
Loading sequence
Draft
Mooring lines
Weather

Bending moments / sheer stresses
When to call the Master / Mate
Ballasting procedures
Stability
Fire rounds
Contractors
Trim / List
Communications
Does Marpol stipulate anything about a responsible person with regards to rubbish?
The garbage management plan stipulates who the responsible person is.
Will a fire affect the compass?

Yes. Heat from the fire will change the ships magnetism, thus affecting the compass.
What happens to your stability during a heavy lift?

G rises due to the lift
Your underwater volume changes, causing a change in B
Any fluids in slack tanks will move to the lower side causing a virtual rise of G
due to free surface
GM decreases
Ship in distress- on fire with MOB. What would you do?

Raise Alarm & Muster crew
Deploy Life-ring with smoke/light
Manoeuvre (Williamson turn) to pick up MOB
Engines on standby
Priority is safety of life, then the vessel
Split crew into two teams (Fire party & MOB recovery), if possible
Fire party to determine severity of fire
Lookouts and boat crew on standby
Send a PAN PAN PAN to all ships and RCC requesting assistance
Deploy FRC or Lifeboat to pick up MOB, whilst rest of crew fight fire
Once MOB is on board and safe, one person to stay with MOB, whilst the other
boat crew assist with the fire
Separate VHF communication to each party
Search and rescue procedures MOB procedures and search patterns.

Refer to IAMSAR Manual
Refer to ships Emergency Procedures Manual (SMS)
What documentation would you receive from the shipper before loading Dangerous
Goods and what information would it contain?
Multimodal Form (At least 24 hrs prior to loading)
Container Packing Certificate
Shippers Declaration

Emergency Information (MFAG, IMDG, EMs)
Dangerous Goods Manifest
Stowage Plan
Bill of Lading
On-scene coordinator explain procedures and responsibilities

The OSC position is usually taken by the first vessel on the search location
The OSC responsibility is to co-ordinate and direct Air and Sea craft in SAR
Who do you contact in a SAR operation and how?

RCC
All Ships in the search area (VHF, DSC, HF or Sat-C)
The On Scene Co-ordinator (If it is not you)
AUSREP (Deviation Report)
Owner, Charterer, P&I Club
How do you send a distress Inmarsat C, DSC?
What is Structural Strength?

It is a requirement for assignment of freeboard
It is a requirement for seaworthiness
It must include Transverse and Longitudinal strength
When do you take compass error observationsWhy?

Major alteration of course
Every watch
When compass is acting abnormally
All fire extinguishers out of date for hydrostatic test, what will I do?
Notify Class, Charterer, P&I and Owners
Use spares in engine spaces and galley areas
Organise testing for next port call
Notify all personnel via a Safety Meeting & Hazard Board
What causes deviation?

The ships own magnetism
Metal and electronic items on the vessel
Does the stability book have to be submitted to anyone?

It must be submitted and stamped by the Class Society
Name the Statutory Certificates and Documents

Certificate of Registry
Load Line Certificate
Safety Construction Certificate

Safety Equipment Certificate
Safety Radio Certificate
IOPP
NLS
IMO Chemical Code Certificate
IMO Gas Code Certificate
Document of Authorisation to Carry Grain in Bulk Certificate
Document of Compliance for Carrying (specific type/s of cargo)
Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate
Tonnage Certificate
Passenger Ship Safety Certificate
Cargo Ship Safety Certificate (In lieu of 3 other safety certificates)
ISM and copy of the Document of Compliance
ISPS
Arctic Pollution Prevention Certificate (additional to any oil record books)
SOPEP
Cargo Securing Manual
A crewmember joins the vessel in Australia with an expired medical what action would
you take?
He cannot sail without a valid medical. Therefore, if time permitted I would try to
organise a medical prior to sailing, or if that was not possible, I would request another
crewmember to replace him. I would also get in touch with the office and inquire why
they did not pick up this oversight.
A crewmember joins the vessel in Singapore with an expired medical what action would
you take and who would you contact for information?
Dont sign crewmember on until he gets an AMSA medical
Notify Agent & Company to get an approved medical done ASAP
Notify Charterer, Flag and P&I if the above is not possible
Note Protest
What annexes of Marpol would apply to a small oil tanker?

Annex 1 Prevention of Oil
Annex 4 Sewage
Annex 5 Garbage
Annex 6 Air Pollution
Explain Bills of Lading

Evidence of Title
Receipt for Goods Shipped
Evidence of Contract between the Carrier and the Shipper
How would you pick up a pilot?
Have pilot ladder & man ropes in place (correctly secured & illuminated)
Have someone ready to greet and escort Pilot to bridge

Liase with Pilot Boat via VHF Communication
Provide a lee for the Pilot Boat
Reduce speed for Pilot boat
Have Mate with UHF or VHF inform bridge when Pilot is on board
Have Life Buoy with lifeline on standby
Meet Pilot Boat at Pilot Boarding Ground
Where would you find information on the correct rigging of Pilot Ladders?
Browns Nautical Almanac
MCA Code of Safe Practices
Marine Orders - 23
How do you know your ships stability computer programme is working correctly?
Load the Master Disc and re-boot
Compare the computer programme with the Intact Stability Book, by inputting the
same data as the worked example in the Intact Stability Book, the result should be
the same. If not, the stability programme is not reliable
Explain Heavy Lift

A heavy lift is any lift over 100 tonnes
AMSA must be notified
Stability requirements allow the lift
Crane must be capable of doing the lift
Crane must be classed
Seek approval for an occasional lift (A lift over SWL). How will I go about this?
When the derrick has a SWL less than 50 tonnes:
Crane has been inspected by a Responsible Person (Manufacturer, Class, Testing
Establishment)
Written permission from the Master or Owner
Prescribed Person (AMSA) has approved the lift on a report by a surveyor
When the crane has a SWL greater than 50 tonnes:
All the above plus
Crane or derrick to be classed
Classification society to agree
Method of use must be safe with regards to ship and personnel
What are the markings on a lifeboat?

Location number (Named Fwd to Aft & Odd-Stbd / Even-Port)
Vessel Name & Port of Registry
Call Sign or IMO Number (Visible from above)
Reflective Tape shaped in an X
The number of personnel it can carry
Damaged ladder into the cargo hold and the stevedores wont use it, what would you do
and under MO-32 what type of a ladder must it be?

Ask them to utilise the second ladder in the hold
If the hold is less than 6.5 metres in height, a portable ladder could be used
Organise a Competent Person to inspect the damaged ladder
Isolate use of damaged ladder
Notify Class, Owners, P&I, Charterer
If time permits organise repairs via Agent and load other holds first
What is the emergency power on a ship used for?

Emergency Lighting
Steering
Gyro
Radar
Essential pumps (fire, cooling etc)
Navigation lights
GMDSS
What conventions come under the IMO?

SOLAS
MARPOL
International Load Line
STCW-95
Salvage
Tonnage
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
Safe Containers
Maritime Search and Rescue
International Maritime Satellite Organization (INMARSAT)
Safety of Fishing Vessels
What is the wording of the OH&S Act?

Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) Act 1993
An Act to promote the occupational health and the
safety of persons employed in the maritime
industry and for related purposes
What is the fire isolation valve and what other emergency shut-offs are there on board?
The Fire Isolation Valve isolates the engine room from the deck. It is used if access to the
engine room is not possible. The deck-isolating valve can bypass the engine room and
then the emergency fire pump can be used to boundary cool the engine room.
Other shut-offs:
Fuel shut-off
Engine room fan shut-off
Vents and Fire-flaps

Who starts the emergency generator? If no one is available, how do you start it?
Emergency generators or battery power supply must automatically engage within
45 seconds of main power loss
Otherwise the engineers will usually start the generator
If the engineers are not available, the crew should be aware (due to initial safety
induction and drills) on how to start the generator
Otherwise, starting instructions are posted next to the emergency generator.
How many lifejackets do you have on board (including spares)?

A life-jacket for every person on board the ship
Life-jackets must be so placed as to be readily accessible and their position must
be plainly indicated
If, due to the particular arrangements of the ship, the life-jackets provided become
inaccessible, alternative provisions must be made to the satisfaction of the Chief
Marine Surveyor which may include an increase in the number of life-jackets to
be carried. (Spares)
What is renewal time for deck crane certificates?

Proof Load by a Responsible Person 5 Years
Visual inspections by a Competent Person 6 months
Examined by a Competent Person 1 Year
How many life buoys on board?

Length of Ship in Metres Minimum number of Lifebuoys
Under 100 8
100 and under 150 10
150 and under 200 12
200 and over 14
Give examples of a condition of class

Flaps or vents dont close properly
Navigation light housing is broken
Safety Instructions are not visible or faded (LSA, Crane Operation etc)
Damaged or rusted-out frames in ballast tanks
What fire fighting equipment do you have in the galley?

CO2 or Dry Chemical Extinguisher
Fire Blanket
May have a dedicated fixed CO2 system for the deep fryer
Self-closing fire-rated doors
What are the ISM certificates?

Document of Compliance
Safety Management Certificate

What is Equation of time?
It is the difference between the apparent and mean time. For example, if you took the
time of Meridian Passage at 1200LMT, you have to apply the equation of time to give
you the real time of Meridian Passage.
What is SHA?
The Siderial Hour Angle is the angle measured from the First point of Aries to the star in
a Westerly direction from 0 to 360.
What is Magnitude?
The brightness of a celestial body is called magnitude. It relates to the brightness in
relation to its distance. The smaller the magnitude, the brighter the celestial object is. EG:
A magnitude of -1.6 is brighter than a magnitude of 2.
How would you go about handing over the watch?

As per Marine Orders 28
Taking over the watch
Must not hand over the watch to the relieving officer if there is reason to believe
that the latter is not capable of carrying out the watchkeeping duties effectively, in
which case the master must be notified.
The relieving officer must ensure that the members of the relieving watch are
fully capable of performing their duties, particularly as regards their adjustment to
night vision.
Relieving officers must not take over the watch until their vision is fully adjusted
to the light conditions.
Prior to taking over the watch relieving officers must satisfy themselves as to the
ship's estimated or true position and confirm its intended track, course and speed,
UMS controls as appropriate and must note any dangers to navigation expected to
be encountered during their watch.
Standing orders and other special instructions of the master relating to navigation
of the ship
Position, course, speed and draught of the ship
Prevailing and predicted tides, currents, weather, visibility and the effect of these
factors upon course and speed
Procedures for the use of main engines to manoeuvre when the main engines are
on bridge control
Navigational situation, including but not limited to
The operational condition of all navigational and safety equipment being used or
likely to be used during the watch,
(ii) the errors of gyro and magnetic compasses,
(iii) the presence and movement of ships in sight or known to be in the vicinity,
(iv) the conditions and hazards likely to be encountered during the watch, and
(v) the possible effects of heel, trim, water density and squat on under keel
clearance.

What affects the angle of down flooding?
It is the location of your deck openings above the weather deck that can allow ingress of
water into the vessel.
Explain KN Curves
The values of the righting arm GZ can be calculated for heeling angles given by
the KN curves.
The KN Curves have a scale of Displacement at the bottom and a scale of KN
values in metres at the side.
The curves represent the KN values at various angles of heel.
You apply the following formula to find GZ: GZ KN KG Sin Heel
Explain Free Surface

When a tank is completely full acts as a static weight. When slack, the liquid flows to the
low side and centre of gravity shifts from G to G1. The centre of gravity will act through
Gv. This in effect reduces the effective metacentre height from GM to GvM. GGv is
therefore the virtual loss of GM due to free surface. If a vessel with small GM suffers
from free surface, the loss of GM may result in a negative metacentric height and an
angle of Loll.
Explain Angle of Loll

Initially the vessel must have developed a Negative GM, and in practice a ship does
not develop a GM quickly, unless it has suffered damage;
The GM can be caused by the loss of bottom weight due to poor management of de-
ballasting operations or fuel usage;
It can also be caused by the addition of top weight by overloading, or the absorption
of water into deck cargoes. Ice accretion building up on decks, deck cargo and
superstructure is also be a cause of reaching a GM;
One of the most common causes of negative stability is due to too many slack tanks
causing large free surface moments and a virtual rise in G;
In all cases the ships centre of gravity rises slowly until it is above the Metacentre
(M). The GZ righting lever then becomes negative, and acts as a capsizing lever;
As a ship lists its beam increases, as long as it does not reach Deck edge Immersion;
And as the beam increases, stability increases because BM increases;
The ship will eventually reach a position of equilibrium at a point of list when the
Centre of Buoyancy (C of B),and the Centre of Gravity (C of G), are once more in the
same vertical line, and M has moved above G;
At this angle of list the GZ is 0 (no righting or capsizing lever), however at this
angle the ship has also developed a positive GM and will oscillate about this angle
of list;
The ship is said to have developed an Angle of Loll;

Anchor, windlass and cable. What are the periodical checks and survey requirements.
Anchors and cables come under the Class Certificate and are inspected under the
Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate.
5 Year Renewal (Dry Dock)
2 or 3 Year Intermediate (Dry Dock)
Annual Survey
Explain General Average.

That which has been sacrificed for the benefit of all, shall be made good by the
contribution of all.
A loss through a deliberate act performed with the intention of preserving the property
involved in the voyage. Losses are equally shared in proportion to his share of the total
value involved.
Explain Particular Average.

Accidental damage to ships hull, machinery and equipment.
A partial loss, proximately caused by peril insured against, which is not a General
Average loss, providing loss is not the direct occurrence of negligence.
Charter parties whats the Masters responsibility?

Ensure vessel is seaworthy
Vessel is ready on the agreed date and place
Speedy prosecution of voyage (Time Charter)
To follow Charterers requests within reason (Time Charter)
Responsibility to protect the cargo
What are Time Charters?

Works on the same basis as a Limousine Service
The Master is obliged to follow the Charterers instructions
The Charterer looks after pilotage, stores, fuel and cargo handling
Period of hire, place and time of delivery to be specified
Owners obligation to have vessel available to work 24/7
Owner to look after Crew provisions, wages, vessel insurance
Owner obliged to maintain vessel
What are Voyage Charters?

Works on the same basis as a Taxi Service
Contract is fixed for that Port
Owner is obligated to have vessel ready and seaworthy
Carrier has the right to protect the cargo
Carrier has liability of the cargo, with the exception of the 17 defences under the
Hague Visby Rules
Charterers obligation to provide the cargo and the agreed amount
Charterer is liable for damage due to loading, trim etc

May have Strike, War or Ice clauses
What are Demise Charters?

Charterer uses and pays the owners crew
Owner is still the boss
What are Bare Boat Charters?

The Master and Crew belong to the Owner, but are servants of the Charterer
Explain how the Bill of Lading works.

A Bill of Lading states the quantity, apparent order and condition of the goods
received onto the vessel
The quantity and condition of the goods is copied from the description on the
Mates Receipt
Title of the goods may be transferred to another party and the BL is therefore
known as a Negotiable Document of Title
The Master or the Agent can sign the Bill of Lading on behalf of the Ship Owner
It is evidence of Term of Contract between Shipper and Carrier
It is a Receipt of Goods Received
It is a Document of Title (Legal Owner)
You must keep your copies of Bills of Lading for 2 Years
The BL is signed, dated and stamped by the consignee and this is your receipt that
goods have been delivered
What is AIS and how does it work?

The Shipborne Automatic Identification System (AIS) as specified by IMO, is a ship and
shore based broadcast system, operating in the VHF maritime band.
It can send and receive the following ship information:
Identity
Position
Course
Speed
Ship Particulars
Cargo Information
It is useful in identifying other vessels behind a land mass or obstruction

It is a quick and easy way to determine if a risk of collision exists
Each AIS station is made up of one VHF transmitter, two VHF receivers, one VHF DSC
receiver, a communications link and sensor systems, as well as a GPS system. AIS
systems are designed to operate on two frequency channels simultaneously.
Explain Negative GM
Unstable equilibrium is when a vessel has negative GM. It occurs when G lies above M,
thus causing the vessel to capsize when it is heeled.

Dry Dock Procedures.

Before entering dry-dock:
All hatches and beams should be in the stowed position to ensure continuity of
strength throughout the ship
All cranes and derricks to be in the stowed position
Ship must be upright, have a positive GM and sufficient stability to allow for the
rise of G from the upthrust when taking the blocks
Consult with dock master regarding draft, trim, use of lines and any other
requirements
Usually ships enter dry-dock with minimum ballast to keep docking stresses to a
minimum. Keep free surface to a minimum
Record all soundings and movable weights on board before entering dry-dock as
the ship should leave with the same displacement and trim
Necessary documentation ready
Communicate with Dry-dock Master regarding vessels draft and trim
Take soundings of all internal tanks
In dry-dock:
The ship must be lined up with her centre line vertically over the centre line of
the keel blocks and the shores are placed loosely in position
The dock gates are closed and pumping out commences
The rate of pumping is reduced as the ships stern post nears the blocks
When the stern post lands on the blocks, the shores are hardened up
commencing from aft and gradually working forward so that all of the shores
will be hardened up and in position by the time the ship takes the blocks overall
The rate of pumping is increased to empty the dock as quickly as possible
The ship must maintain a positive GM throughout the critical period. If not the
ship may slip off the blocks with disastrous results
Connect fire line up to shore hydrant
Connect phone, power, potable water and sewerage lines
Sight removal of plugs, label and retain for safe keeping
Ensure that all OH and S procedures are followed, especially confined space
entry and ventilation of tanks.
Keep efficient fire watch at all times
Leaving dry-dock:
Disconnect all power, water, phone, sewerage and fire lines
All tanks should have there underwater drain plugs in place
Sound all tanks and ensure that everything is in place as when entering the dock.
Sound tanks again as the dock is being filled to check for any potential flooding
Test all underwater valves and check for any ingress of water.
RUDDER is amidships

What is the difference between distress, urgency and safety alert?

Distress: (MAYDAY) Imminent Danger to Life or Vessel (On fire, Sinking, etc)
Urgency: (PAN PAN) Threat to Life of Vessel (Broken down, MOB, Aground etc)
Safety Alert: (SECURITE) Danger to Navigation (Adrift, Derelict vessel, Weather etc)
Your 3rd officer is not as competent as he should be; how would you handle this situation?
Talk to the individual to see if there are any personal issues involved
Determine what the cause is
Get the other Mates to assist in training him
Notify the Office
Restrict his duties unless supervised
On-load/offload releases- Explain the difference, operation and maintenance.

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Typical AMSA Oral Questions

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Typical AMSA Orals Questions

Joining a vessel as master, what would you do what do you observe?

What do you expect to find in a safety induction?

What marine orders deal with cargo handling equipment?

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How do you Proof Load test a crane?

What are the proof load requirements?

How would you find information on load line zones?

What publications are found onboard?

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What is certificate of entry?

What types of fire fighting equipment is found on board?

What types of fire detectors are on board?

How many fire hydrants will be on board?

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What is the error made up of?

How can Deviation change?

What would you do if the compass card were moving erratically?

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What are type A & B vessels, define a B60 vessel.

B-100: A type B vessel adopting type A freeboard assignment, by complying with

What is Subsidiary Risk?

Explain Limited Quantities

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Deck Edge Immersion Angle of Flooding

Wind Heel 40 57.3

Range of Positive Stability

1. Initial Metacentric Height (GM)

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What do you know about ARPA & its errors?

What is the DWA formula?

What information is contained in the Stability Booklet?

What are the employers obligations under the OH&S act?

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What types of charts are there?

What are the steps of Passage Planning?

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What is a Condition of Class and how do you remove it?

Collision Regulations Rule10

What are the ARPA requirements?

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ISM masters responsibility.

Safety construction survey what is checked?

Fire protection type A, type B bulkheads.

B CLASS: Divisions are those, which are constructed as to be capable of preventing

C CLASS: Divisions are constructed of approved incombustible materials but do not

Container floating in the water actions reporting procedures.

UMS, What are the requirements?

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How do you calculate free surface?

When should the compass be swung and by whom?

Drills types and frequencies of drills.

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Can either the IMO or UN numbers be changed if a vessel changes owners?

Steps for involved in loading a ship with grain

Calculate when it is safe to pass under a bridge (Standard or Secondary port)

What is a garbage management plan?

What is a recorded in the garbage register?