Question 44 OSE01 - Chief Engineer - OSV

The Correct Answer is A **2. Explanation of why Option A is correct:** Option A ("Immediately shutdown the engine, then investigate the cause for the low-pressure alarm.") is the required response because a sudden loss of lube oil pressure is the most critical mechanical emergency an engine can face. Lube oil is essential for cooling and preventing metal-to-metal contact, particularly in high-speed bearings. If oil pressure is insufficient, catastrophic damage (such as bearing failure, piston seizure, or a "wipe out") occurs rapidly, often within seconds or less than a minute. Shutting down the engine immediately stops the movement of the lubricated components, limiting further damage and allowing for safe investigation and repair. **3. Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) Monitor closely oil pressures, temperatures, and levels while continuing to run the engine.** This option is extremely dangerous. Continuing to run the engine guarantees that severe and costly damage will occur. The damage mechanism (metal-to-metal contact) is already active, and monitoring it instead of stopping it is negligent. * **C) Immediately add make-up oil or service lube oil coolers, strainers, and filters, as appropriate.** While these actions might be necessary as part of the *investigation* after the engine is secured, they are not the initial response. Attempting maintenance or adding oil while the engine is critically starved of lubrication wastes valuable time, during which the engine is rapidly destroying itself. The first priority is always to prevent further damage. * **D) Reduce the load and speed on the engine and continue to monitor the oil pressure.** Reducing speed only slightly mitigates the rate of damage; it does not solve the underlying lack of lubrication pressure. If the pressure is low enough to trigger an alarm, the engine must be stopped immediately, regardless of load or speed. This response is insufficient for a critical pressure loss.