SET - 4 | PST Exit Exam Mock - Questions and Answers - 2026

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.

Imported via XML Feed

In a survival situation, fresh water is extremely precious. Survival guidelines strongly recommend rationing water strictly, often advising against consuming any water during the first 24 hours (if injury/illness allows) to allow the body to adjust. After this, small, controlled amounts are distributed to prolong the supply. Drinking seawater is strictly forbidden as it leads to severe dehydration and kidney failure.

Helicopters generate significant static electricity. The grounding wire (static discharge line) is lowered first to safely dissipate this charge by touching the water or the deck of the vessel. It is crucial to allow it to make contact and discharge the static electricity *before* any personnel touch the rescue hook, strop, or basket, to prevent a severe electric shock.

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

It is absolutely critical that the drain plug (or 'garboard plug') of a lifeboat is securely closed before launching. If it is open, the boat will immediately start taking on water upon reaching the sea, which could cause it to swamp, capsize, or sink, endangering the occupants. The plug is designed to be opened *after* the boat is afloat, when required, to drain any accumulated bilge water.

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.

Imported via XML Feed

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.

An immersion suit is a protective suit designed to be worn in cold water to delay hypothermia. Its main function is to provide thermal insulation, minimizing heat loss from the wearer's body to the cold water and air, thereby significantly extending survival time and improving chances of rescue.

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

Immersion suits are designed to protect against hypothermia and are mandatory for use when abandoning ship if the water temperature is particularly cold (generally below 15°C). They provide thermal insulation, significantly increasing survival time for individuals in the water, especially if they cannot immediately enter a survival craft.

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

IMO requirements, specified in the LSA Code, state that a life jacket shall be capable of being donned by a person quickly and without assistance within 30 seconds. This standard ensures that in an emergency, individuals can rapidly prepare themselves for potential immersion, minimizing delay and increasing chances of survival.

Jumping from a ship, especially from a significant height, carries a high risk of serious injury due to the impact with the water. The 'don't jump unless necessary' rule emphasizes boarding survival craft directly from the ship's deck whenever possible, or using designated escape slides or routes to enter the water safely, ensuring a more controlled and less hazardous abandonment procedure, and preserving the physical condition of survivors.

The general emergency alarm signal, typically seven short blasts followed by one long blast on the ship's whistle and internal alarm, is used to notify everyone on board about an emergency situation, requiring them to proceed immediately to their designated muster stations as specified in the muster list. This is a fundamental aspect of ship safety and emergency procedures under STCW and SOLAS.

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.

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

According to survival at sea guidelines, it is recommended to avoid drinking water for the first 24 hours in a survival craft, provided there is no immediate medical reason to drink (e.g., severe injury leading to excessive fluid loss). This initial period allows the body to adjust and conserve existing fluids. After the first 24 hours, water should be rationed very sparingly, typically around 500ml per person per day, or less, depending on conditions and available supply, to maximize the duration of the supply. Drinking immediately or frequently without a strict plan will quickly deplete vital resources.

Imported via XML Feed

Imported via XML Feed

A Thermal Protective Aid (TPA) is a bag or suit made of waterproof, thermally reflective material. Its main purpose is to reduce heat loss from a survivor's body through convection, conduction, and radiation, thus helping to prevent or delay hypothermia. It is designed to reflect the body's own heat back to the wearer and protect against the elements.

Imported via XML Feed

The Muster List is a vital safety document required by SOLAS Chapter III. It must clearly outline each person's designated muster station, their specific duties during various emergencies (e.g., fire, abandon ship), the signals for these emergencies, and general instructions. This ensures an organized and effective response.