STCW Basic Safety Training Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

Question 1

An EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) works by:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Transmitting a distress signal and position to rescue services via satellite. An EPIRB transmits a coded distress alert with the vessel's identity and position through the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system to alert rescue coordination centres.

Question 2

Most modern EPIRBs are designed to activate:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Automatically when they float free of a sinking vessel, or manually. A float-free EPIRB releases from its bracket and activates automatically on contact with water if the vessel sinks; it can also be switched on manually.

Question 3

Drinking seawater when adrift is dangerous because it:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Accelerates dehydration and can cause kidney damage. Seawater's high salt content forces the body to use more water to excrete it, worsening dehydration and damaging the kidneys.

Question 4

In a liferaft, the recommended daily ration of fresh water for a survivor (after the first day) is roughly:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

About half a litre (500 ml). Survival rationing typically limits intake to around half a litre per person per day to extend the supply; usually no water is taken in the first 24 hours to let the body adjust.

Question 5

Seasickness in a liferaft should be treated promptly because it:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Causes fluid loss (vomiting) and weakens survivors. Vomiting from seasickness causes dehydration and weakness, so anti-seasickness tablets are taken early to preserve fluids and strength.

Question 6

The sea anchor (drogue) streamed from a liferaft is used to:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Slow drift and keep the raft stable and near the casualty position. A sea anchor reduces the raft's downwind drift, helps keep it near the last known position for searchers and reduces capsizing in rough seas.

Question 7

After boarding a liferaft, an early priority is to:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Release the painter when safe and stream the sea anchor, then look for other survivors. Once clear of the sinking ship the painter is released, the sea anchor is streamed, and survivors look for and assist others before settling into survival routine.

Question 8

Pyrotechnic distress signals (flares) should be used:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Only when there is a realistic chance of being seen by a ship or aircraft. Flares are a limited resource and should be fired only when rescuers are likely to see them, to avoid wasting the supply.

Question 9

A red parachute rocket distress signal is intended to:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Be seen over a long distance, day or night. A red parachute rocket climbs high and burns brightly while descending by parachute, giving long-range visibility for locating survivors.

Question 10

The immersion (survival) suit is designed to:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Provide thermal protection and reduce heat loss in cold water. An immersion suit gives thermal insulation and buoyancy, greatly slowing hypothermia; some types still require a lifejacket for face-up flotation.

STCW Basic Safety Training Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

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