Examination Practice Questions And

Coast Guard Lifeboatman / PSC Limited Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a lifeboat on a vessel?

a) Cargo transportation

b) Emergency evacuation of crew and passengers

c) Fuel storage

d) Navigational aid

Rationale: Lifeboats are specifically designed for the safe evacuation

of personnel in emergencies.

• Which international convention governs lifeboat requirements for

ships?

a) MARPOL 1 / 4

b) STCW

c) SOLAS

d) ISM Code

Rationale: The Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention sets

standards for lifeboats and lifesaving appliances.

• What type of lifeboat is self-righting?

a) Open lifeboat

b) Enclosed lifeboat

c) Raft

d) Dinghy

Rationale: Enclosed lifeboats are designed to self-right if capsized.

• What is the minimum crew required to operate a standard lifeboat?

a) One person

b) Two persons

c) Three persons

d) Five persons

Rationale: Most lifeboats require at least three trained personnel for

safe launch and operation.

• When should lifeboat drills be conducted on a vessel?

a) Once every voyage

b) At least monthly

c) Only before departure

d) Only during inspections 2 / 4

Rationale: Regular drills ensure the crew is familiar with lifeboat

operations.

• What is the function of the lifeboat falls?

a) Steer the boat

b) Lower the lifeboat from the davit to water

c) Inflate the lifeboat

d) Anchor the boat

Rationale: Lifeboat falls are cables used to safely lower lifeboats.

• How often must lifeboat equipment be inspected?

a) Annually

b) Monthly

c) Weekly

d) Every voyage

Rationale: Lifeboats and their equipment must be regularly checked

to ensure operational readiness.

• Which piece of equipment is mandatory in all lifeboats?

a) GPS

b) Engine heater

c) First aid kit

d) Radio transmitter only

Rationale: A first aid kit is essential for survival in emergencies.

• Which signaling device is used to indicate position at sea?

a) Life jacket 3 / 4

b) Flares

c) Lifeboat oars

d) Compass

Rationale: Flares are standard signaling devices for search and

rescue operations.

• What is the proper way to board a lifeboat in an emergency?

a) Jump from any height

b) Use the embarkation ladder or rope

c) Swim to the boat

d) Climb over the davit

Rationale: Safe boarding methods reduce risk of injury.

• What is the main hazard during lifeboat launching?

a) Poor visibility

b) Engine failure

c) Capsizing or impact injury

d) Overcrowding only

Rationale: The main risks include capsizing, striking the ship, or

improper lowering.

• What is the correct action if a lifeboat engine fails after launch?

a) Abandon the lifeboat

b) Try to swim back to ship

c) Use the oars or emergency sails

d) Call for helicopter evacuation

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