SET - 3 | PST Exit Exam Mock - Questions and Answers - 2026

A SART (Search and Rescue Transponder) is an active signaling device. When activated and swept by an X-band radar signal from a searching vessel or aircraft, it transmits a series of 12 dots on the radar display, indicating the SART's position and helping search units pinpoint the survival craft.

The primary function of an immersion suit is to reduce the risk of hypothermia for a person immersed in cold water. It is designed to provide thermal insulation, delaying the onset of hypothermia, which is a major cause of death in cold water survival situations. While it may offer some buoyancy and visibility, these are secondary benefits to its crucial thermal protective role.

Jumping from a significant height into water can cause severe injury due to the impact force. Correct jumping techniques (e.g., holding onto the lifejacket, covering the nose and mouth, legs together, feet first) are taught to minimize this risk. The general rule is 'don't jump unless necessary' because entering the water carries inherent risks, and a survival craft is always preferable.

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For davit-launched liferafts, the painter line (a long rope attached to the liferaft) is essential. It keeps the liferaft close to the ship after launching and while boarding, preventing it from drifting away. It must only be released once the liferaft is waterborne, stable, and all occupants are safely on board, to allow controlled detachment from the vessel. Releasing it prematurely could lead to the liferaft drifting away or capsizing during boarding.

A sea anchor is a crucial piece of equipment in a survival craft. Its primary function is to reduce drift, keep the bow of the craft pointed into the waves to prevent capsizing, and make the craft more visible to search and rescue units by slowing its movement. While other items might be beneficial, a sea anchor is specifically mandated by SOLAS for stability and drift reduction.

The muster list is a vital safety document that clearly outlines the specific emergency duties, stations, and actions for every person on board (crew and passengers). Its primary purpose is to ensure an organized, efficient, and effective response to any emergency situation, as required by STCW and SOLAS regulations.

A 'throw-overboard' type inflatable liferaft is designed to be literally thrown into the water. Once it is clear of the ship, the painter line (a rope attached to the liferaft container and secured to the ship) is pulled firmly. This action activates the CO2 inflation system, causing the liferaft to inflate automatically. Option 'a' describes a davit-launched liferaft, and option 'd' describes a free-float release, which is a secondary automatic release mechanism in case the ship sinks without manual deployment.

According to Chapter IV of the LSA Code, a liferaft's emergency equipment typically includes items like a first-aid outfit, drinking water, food rations, signaling devices (pyrotechnics, whistle), paddles/oars, sea anchor, repair kit, bailer, and sponges. A motorized outboard engine is not standard equipment for a liferaft; propulsion is typically manual with paddles/oars or assisted by a sea anchor for stability/drift control.

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Pyrotechnic distress signals are limited resources. They should be conserved and used strategically when there is a high probability of being seen by a potential rescuer, such as when an aircraft or vessel is sighted. Using them indiscriminately can deplete them before a real opportunity for rescue arises, thus reducing the chances of being located.

An EPIRB is a critical component of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). When activated, it transmits a unique distress signal on 406 MHz that is picked up by satellites and relayed to a Rescue Coordination Center (RCC), providing the vessel's identity and precise location, thereby significantly aiding search and rescue efforts.

Hand flares and parachute flares (also known as rocket parachute flares) are critical pyrotechnic signaling devices required as standard equipment in liferafts. They are used to attract the attention of search and rescue units, especially at night or in conditions of poor visibility, by emitting bright light or a high-intensity signal.

A red parachute flare is a powerful distress signal designed to attract the immediate attention of a potential search and rescue (SAR) unit. It should be used strategically when a rescue ship or aircraft is sighted, as its bright light and high trajectory make it visible over a large area, especially at night or in low visibility. Using it indiscriminately depletes limited resources without maximizing the chance of rescue.

When being hoisted by a helicopter, the safest body position is to keep your arms crossed over your chest and all limbs close to your body. This minimizes the risk of snagging on the hoist gear, reduces the risk of injury from the downdraft, and maintains a streamlined profile. Facing away from the helicopter can help prevent debris from being blown into your eyes and reduces discomfort from the rotor wash. Never attempt to grab the hoist line before it is firmly in your grasp or attached to your rescue device.

For davit-launched liferafts, the correct and safest procedure is for passengers and crew to board the liferaft while it is still secured on deck. Once everyone is safely inside, the liferaft is then lowered to the water using the davit system. This minimizes the risk of injury during boarding and ensures a controlled abandonment, as per IMO Model Course 1.19 and STCW guidelines.

For a conscious person with mild hypothermia, the priority is to prevent further heat loss and initiate gradual rewarming. Removing wet clothing, drying the person, and wrapping them in dry blankets or warm clothing helps retain body heat. Rapid rewarming methods like hot baths or vigorous rubbing can be dangerous, potentially leading to 'afterdrop' (a further drop in core body temperature) or cardiac issues. Alcohol should be avoided as it dilates blood vessels, causing further heat loss.

After donning a life jacket, it is crucial to ensure it is correctly fitted and all straps are securely tightened. This ensures the life jacket will provide maximum buoyancy and support, keeping the wearer's head clear of the water, especially in rough seas, and preventing it from coming off upon impact with water or during prolonged survival. A properly secured life jacket significantly increases the chances of survival.

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The muster list is a critical safety document required by SOLAS and emphasized in STCW. It clearly outlines the specific duties and responsibilities of each crew member during different emergency situations (e.g., fire, abandon ship) and specifies the muster stations where passengers and crew should gather. It also details the alarm signals and actions to be taken, ensuring an organized and efficient response to emergencies.

Cold Water Shock is the immediate and involuntary physiological response to sudden immersion in cold water. It causes an initial gasp reflex, rapid and uncontrolled breathing (hyperventilation), and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This reaction significantly increases the risk of drowning due due to water inhalation, and can be fatal within minutes, often before true hypothermia sets in.

While the Master has overall command and responsibility for the ship's safety, the effective implementation of emergency procedures relies on a clear delegation of duties. The muster list specifically designates heads of departments (e.g., Chief Officer, Chief Engineer) or appointed muster party leaders to take charge of specific groups of personnel at their respective muster stations, conduct roll calls, and ensure everyone is accounted for and understands their immediate actions.

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A SART's primary function is to assist in locating survival craft or distressed vessels. When activated, it remains in a listening mode. Upon detection of a searching radar signal (typically from a rescue vessel or aircraft), the SART transmits a series of 12 dots or circles on the radar screen, indicating its precise location relative to the searching unit. This distinct signal makes it highly effective for pinpointing the position of survivors.

A SART is a transponder that, when activated, detects the sweep of a searching radar (specifically X-band radar, commonly used by SAR vessels and aircraft) and immediately transmits a series of response signals. These signals appear as a unique line of 12 dots on the radar display of the searching unit, providing an unmistakable indication of the SART's location and helping rescuers home in on the survival craft.

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The EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) is designed to float free from a sinking vessel or be manually activated. It transmits a distress signal on specific frequencies (e.g., 406 MHz) to satellites, which then relay the position to a shore-based rescue coordination center, enabling long-range location of the survival craft.

During a helicopter rescue, it's vital to ensure the safety of both the survivors and the helicopter crew. Securing loose items prevents them from becoming dangerous projectiles due to downdraft. Clearing the area where the rescue equipment will be lowered ensures a safe and unobstructed transfer. The sea anchor should already be deployed if in rough seas for stability, but securing loose items and clearing the area is a specific preparatory action for the hoist.