Question 53 ONC05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** Option A is correct because regulations governing Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and codified in U.S. regulations (such as 46 CFR, specifically 46 CFR § 35.20-10, referencing testing procedures derived from SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 26) mandate specific pre-departure tests for the steering gear on certain vessels. For vessels undertaking voyages of more than 48 hours, the main and auxiliary steering gear must be tested by the vessel's crew by turning the rudder hard over to port and starboard, and all associated systems (e.g., communication, power units) must be checked, within **12 hours prior to departure**. This requirement is crucial for ensuring the vessel can be safely steered throughout a long voyage. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect Answers):** **B) The emergency generator and lighting system be tested by starting and operating within 12 hours prior to departure:** While these systems must be periodically tested and inspected, the requirement to start and operate the emergency generator and lighting system is typically mandated **weekly** or **monthly** (e.g., 46 CFR § 113.43) rather than specifically within 12 hours of departure, regardless of voyage length. **C) The fire pumps be tested by starting within 12 hours prior to departure:** Fire pumps are typically required to be tested **weekly** (46 CFR § 34.10-5) to ensure operational readiness. There is no specific regulatory mandate requiring them to be tested within 12 hours prior to *every* voyage exceeding 48 hours, although good practice might dictate this. **D) A lifeboat drill be held within 12 hours prior to departure:** Musters and safety drills (including lifeboat drills) are generally required to be held within **24 hours** of departure when passengers embark at a port and the voyage is one for which a prior drill has not been held (46 CFR § 35.10-25). For long voyages, the standard interval for drills is typically **monthly**, not specifically within 12 hours of every departure over 48 hours.