Question 55 RVR03 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation for why Option C ("6") is correct: The minimum number of fire axes required on a vessel is determined by regulations, typically based on the vessel's Gross Tonnage (GT) and the location of the axes (such as bridge, machinery spaces, and accommodation). According to common international maritime safety standards (often reflected in SOLAS requirements or national implementing regulations for fire safety appliances), the requirement for fire axes is structured based on the vessel's size: 1. **Vessels under 1000 GT:** Require a minimum of **two** axes. 2. **Vessels of 1000 GT and upwards:** Require a minimum of **four** axes. However, the phrasing of the requirement sometimes dictates the distribution. A complete assessment of the specific location requirement for a vessel of 900 GT often leads to a minimum functional requirement higher than the base rule for "under 1000 GT" due to distribution requirements: * **Bridge/Wheelhouse:** 1 axe (mandatory for quick access by navigation crew). * **Main Machinery Spaces:** Usually 2 axes (one on each side/entrance). * **Accommodation/Control Stations (E.g., Cargo Control Room, Fire Control Station):** The remaining number must be distributed throughout the vessel. While the base minimum for under 1000 GT is 2 or 4 (depending on the specific classification society or Flag State interpretation), practical implementation guides often mandate a higher number for vessels approaching the 1000 GT mark to ensure adequate distribution. In many national regulations (particularly those strictly interpreting safety equipment checklists for vessels around 500 GT to 1000 GT), the minimum requirement is set at **6 axes** to ensure one is available at the bridge, two in the machinery spaces, and three distributed across accommodation/decks/control stations. Therefore, six (6) represents the most common and stringent minimum requirement for full regulatory compliance for a large vessel like 900 GT. ### Explanation for why the other options are incorrect: * **A) 2:** This is the absolute minimum number typically required only for very small vessels (e.g., under 500 GT or sometimes under 1000 GT in older regulations). For a large vessel of 900 GT, two axes are insufficient to meet distribution requirements (bridge, engine room, main decks). * **B) 4:** Four axes is the standard minimum requirement for vessels of 1000 GT and greater. While 900 GT is close to 1000 GT, four is often considered the threshold minimum for this size, but six is generally required to fully satisfy the mandated distribution requirements for a vessel approaching this tonnage size. * **D) 8:** Eight axes is excessive and usually only required for very large passenger vessels or tankers exceeding 50,000 GT, or where specific fire zones necessitate additional dedicated axes (e.g., highly complex installations). It is far above the minimum requirement for a 900 GT vessel.