Question 35 MODU03 - Ballast Control Operator

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for A (Correct Option):** Regulatory requirements (specifically those pertaining to SOLAS and relevant flag state/classification society rules, often adopted by the USCG for MODUs) mandate that emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) used for distress alerting on vessels like Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs) must be capable of automatically floating free and activating if the unit sinks. This is achieved through a hydrostatic release unit (HRU) mechanism, and the stowing arrangement must not obstruct this release. Therefore, the EPIRB must be stowed in a manner which will permit **it to float free if the unit sinks**. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **B) easy access to its storage compartment:** While access should generally be reasonable for maintenance and manual release, the primary regulatory requirement governing its stowage position and method is ensuring its automatic float-free capability, not just "easy access" for general purposes. * **C) replacement of the battery without exposure to the weather:** Battery replacement procedures are operational and maintenance concerns, but they do not dictate the fundamental regulatory requirement for the **stowage method** (which is focused on distress functionality) the way float-free capability does. * **D) it to remain attached to the unit:** This is directly contradictory to the essential regulatory requirement. If the unit sinks, the EPIRB must detach (using the HRU) to float free and transmit the distress signal. Remaining attached would render it useless in a sinking scenario.