GSK MCQ Set 3 for Merchant Navy GP Rating | Ship Safety, Life Saving & Fire Fighting Guide
Welcome to GSK MCQ Set 3. While general seamanship forms the foundation of a Deck Rating's job, Safety is the lifeline of the entire crew. In the Merchant Navy, safety isn't just a subject you study for the exit exam; it is a culture you live by every single day.
This study set focuses heavily on Life Saving Appliances (LSA), Fire Fighting Appliances (FFA), and Emergency Procedures. Whether you are preparing for your DG Shipping Exit Exam or your first contract at sea, mastering these concepts is non-negotiable.
Why This Set is Critical
A GP Rating has specific duties during an emergency. You might be part of the fire squad, or your duty might be to launch the survival craft. The questions in this set simulate real-world scenarios regarding alarms, extinguishers, and survival gear.
1. Importance of Ship Safety in Merchant Navy
A ship is a floating city with its own power plant, fuel storage, and cargo. Unlike on land, you cannot call the fire brigade or run away if something goes wrong. You are the firefighter, the paramedic, and the rescue team.
- Prevention: Understanding safety prevents accidents before they happen (e.g., proper ventilation of enclosed spaces).
- Response: Knowing exactly what to do when the General Alarm sounds saves valuable seconds.
- Compliance: International laws (SOLAS) require every crew member to be competent in safety procedures.
2. Life Saving Appliances (LSA) Basics
LSA includes all equipment designed to save lives in case the ship must be abandoned or if someone falls overboard.
- Lifeboats & Liferafts: The primary means of evacuation. You must know the difference in launching procedures (Gravity davits vs. Throw-overboard rafts).
- Life Jackets: Designed to keep an unconscious person's face above water. They must be equipped with a whistle and a light.
- Immersion Suits: Vital for survival in cold waters (hypothermia protection).
- Pyrotechnics: Flares and smoke signals used to attract attention.
3. Fire Fighting Equipment (FFA) Overview
Fire is the greatest danger onboard. Different fires require different extinguishing media. Using water on an oil fire or an electrical fire can be fatal.
- Class A Fires: Solid materials (Wood, paper). Use Water or Soda Acid.
- Class B Fires: Flammable liquids (Oil, paint). Use Foam or Dry Powder.
- Class C Fires: Electrical equipment. Use CO2 or Dry Powder.
- Fixed Systems: CO2 flooding systems for engine rooms and cargo holds.
4. Emergency Alarms and Signals
You must be able to recognize alarms instantly, even from a deep sleep.
- General Emergency Alarm: Seven short blasts followed by one long blast.
- Fire Alarm: Continuous ringing of the ship's bell or a continuous electrical sound.
- Man Overboard: Three long blasts.
- Abandon Ship: Verbal order from the Master (Captain).
Ready to test your safety knowledge? Attempt the Quiz below!