QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION FOR VESSEL EXAMINER



Test Edition __D___

Test Number __99___

Course Code _VSC____

Date _June_2000

U.S. POWER SQUADRONS & U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION

FOR

VESSEL EXAMINER

1. Check the subject of this examination to insure it is the one requested.

2. Do not make any marks in this examination booklet. Answers are to be marked on form CG-4886 (Auxiliary Operational Specialty Course Examination Answer Sheet).

3. There are 65 multiple-choice questions in this examination. Each question has only one correct answer. Each question and answer has been extracted from the information contained in the current edition of the Vessel Safety Check Manual, COMDTINST 16796.2 (series).

4. Although this is an open book examination, you are only permitted to refer to the Vessel Safety Check Manual, COMDTINST 16796.2 (series).

5. Work swiftly but carefully and be accurate. This examination has a three-hour time limit.

6. The passing score is 90% (no more than six wrong answers or unanswered questions). Since your score is based on the total number of correct answers, you are encouraged to answer every question.

7. After you finish the examination, check the answer sheet to make sure all required information is furnished. Return the examination booklet, answer sheet and any scrap paper to the proctor.

8. Answers shall not be determined through a consensus with other persons during the examination. This test is an individual effort.

9. The following instructions will assist you while completing the information section of the answer sheet. Also, please note the Privacy Act statement printed on the answer sheet. To make it easy to change your answer upon further review of a question, it is suggested that you complete the answer sheet in pencil.

a. NAME. Print your last name and first name on the line provided.

b. MEMBER NO. Enter your member number in the spaces provided.

c. EXAM TITLE. Enter the short name of the examination – VE QUAL.

d. MEMBER’S MAILING ADDRESS. Print your current mailing address.

e. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. Enter your Social Security Number in the blocks provided. For each number, fill in the corresponding circle.

f. COURSE CODE, EDITION, TEST NO. Enter the 3-digit course code, the 1-digit edition number and the 2-digit test number listed from the first page of these test directions in the blocks provided. For each number, fill in the corresponding circle.

g. DATE TEST ADMINISTERED. Enter the day and year in the blocks provided. For days 1-9 enter a zero in the first block, then the number. Fill in the month, day and year in the corresponding circles.

10. Marking the answer sheet:

a. Make all marks with a black lead pencil

b. Do not leave stray marks on the answer sheet

c. If it becomes necessary to change a mark, erase it completely.

d. Darken the circles completely. You may want to mark your selections lightly with a small dot until you are satisfied that no changes will be made.

DO NOT BEGIN. WAIT FOR THE PROCTOR TO GIVE THE SIGNAL.

DO NOT answer questions with your first reaction. Look up the answer in your manual. Work independently.

QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION FOR VESSEL EXAMINER

1. The Vessel Safety Check Program has many admirable goals. Which of the following fits those goals?

a. Supplement the Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Mission to minimize loss of life and property

b. Supplement the local/state fish and wildlife authorities in enforcing the boating laws

c. Supplement, as a force multiplier, the Coast Guard’s interdiction policies

d. All of the above

2. If an owner or operator has consented to a VE performing a VSC on his/her vessel, what can be expected?

a. A guarantee against a boarding by the Coast Guard or local/state marine authorities, as long as the VSC decal is current

b. A one-on-one education about boating laws, safety equipment and operation of a vessel in a safe manner

c. A minimum of a 10% discount on the boat owner’s marine insurance policy

d. A free survey of the boat, saving the owner a substantial amount of money by not having to hire a marine surveyor

3. Since the VSC Program lists so many items on the Form 204 that apply only to powerboats, should the VE perform a VSC on other vessels?

a. No, not really, unless the owner insists. Since there is so little to check, it’s a waste of everyone’s time

b. Yes, especially seek out canoes, kayaks and jon boats since they have such high accident and fatality rates

c. No, since most states don’t require these vessels to be registered, there is no place on Form 204 to properly record them

d. Yes, since many of the newer non-motor powered vessels are designed with such sleek hulls that they go faster than many of the powerboats a VE would normally examine.

4. You are on vacation in another state that’s part of a different district. Should you bring your VSC materials with you?

a. Yes, a qualified Vessel Examiner may conduct a VSC in any state or territory of the United States. But, you better check up on the local regulations and coordinate with the local Auxiliary or Power Squadron.

b. No, don’t bother. You won’t get credit for any VSC done outside your district anyway.

c. No, don’t bother. The decals are numbered and allocated for only your specific district. So, even if a boat passed the VSC, you couldn’t issue a decal anyway.

d. Yes, but you can only examine vessels that are registered in your home district. Therefore, make sure you look for those with registration letters representing your state.

5. Because of unusual circumstances, you were unable to conduct five VSCs last year. What happens now?

a. You have to do ten this year to keep your qualifications and to make up for last year.

b. You have to do at least two VSCs under supervision of a certified VE to regain your qualifications and then five for this year.

c. You have to meet the full initial qualification criteria to regain your qualifications.

d. You can’t regain your qualifications. Once you miss a year you’re too rusty to be an effective VE.

6. You happen to be visiting a friend at a local marina. You’re wearing casual civilian clothes. A boat owner sees you and knows that you often have come in uniform to conduct VSCs. The owner asks if you would perform a safety check on the boat. What should you do?

a. Apologize to the owner and explain that you can’t do a VSC if you’re not in proper uniform.

b. Explain that you’re off-duty and entitled to some “down time” too. Tell the owner to catch you another time.

c. Since activity only counts if you’re in uniform, don’t waste your time or the boat owner’s time. Come back another time and do it then.

d. Even when you’re not in uniform or prescribed dress, a VE should not delay or refuse a request for a VSC. It’s much more important to accommodate the public than worry about the uniform.

7. A vessel owner consents to a VSC on a vessel that has a prior year’s decal on it. The vessel passes and is eligible for a decal. What should you do?

a. Place the new decal next to the old one. Owners like to display decals for all the years they’ve been examined.

b. Remove the old decal since only one VSC decal is permitted to be displayed at any time.

c. Place the new decal on the starboard window so that it will not interfere with or obscure the operator’s view and be readily visible to authorities while underway.

d. Save the new decal for your next VSC and just give the owner the Form 204 indicating their boat earned a decal.

8. You’ve just completed a VSC on a vessel that passes and is eligible for a decal. However, the vessel does not have a windshield. What do you do now?

a. Give the owner or operator the decal and let them decide where they would like it.

b. Since you may only place a decal on the window or windshield, you never should have done a VSC on this boat in the first place. It was a waste of your time and the owner’s time.

c. Place the new decal on the dashboard or back of a seat; someplace that will be readily visible to authorities while underway.

d. Save the new decal for your next VSC and just give the owner the Form 204 indicating their boat earned a decal.

9. You’re at a very busy boat ramp. You have an opportunity to conduct the VSC on a boat that’s still on the trailer. Can you do it?

a. No, how can you tell if the boat is seaworthy if it’s still on the trailer?

b. No, the Vessel Safety Check Manual, COMDTINST 16796.8 (series) explicitly states that the boat must be in the water, safely afloat at normal trim with adequate freeboard.

c. Yes, but before you can issue the VSC decal, you must see the boat in the water. This way you’re sure it’s seaworthy.

d. Yes, as long as the owner or operator is present during the safety check the boat may be examined on a trailer.

10. The design of the VSC decal is very attractive. Since you’re always looking for ways to encourage the boating public to get a VSC, can you give the boat owner an extra one to put on the back window of her car. Are you allowed to do that?

a. No, a strict accounting of decals is required. Each decals are intended only for the Boats that pass the Vessel Safety Check.

b. No, if every VE did that, we would run out of decals before we ever got to check a boat.

c. Yes, and you should be commended for your creative marketing skills.

d. Yes, VEs have been doing this for years and it creates lots of interest from the boating public.

11. Certain gear on a vessel must be Coast Guard, S.A.E. or U.L. approved to be eligible for a VSC decal. Which items are these?

a. PFDs, VDSs, Fire Extinguishers, First Aid Kits, Anchors.

b. PFDs, Fire Extinguishers, First Aid Kits, Navigation Lights, MSDs.

c. VDSs, Fire Extinguishers, Backfire Flame Arresters, MSDs, Navigation Lights

d. VDSs, PFDs, Fire Extinguishers, Backfire Flame Arresters, MSDs

12. If a vessel is required to be registered and to display the registration numbers, to be eligible for the VSC decal, these numbers:

a. Must be of contrasting color to the hull and at least 4” in height

b. Must be attached by some permanent means adjacent to the Hull Identification Number

c. Must be on both sides of the vessel on the forward half of the hull

d. May be anywhere on the vessel as long as they are black in color

13. If a vessel is required to be registered and to display the registration numbers, to be eligible for the VSC decal, these numbers:

a. Must have spaces or hyphens that are equal to the width of a letter (other than “I”) to clearly separate the letter and number groupings.

b. Must read from left to right on the port side and right to left on the starboard side.

c. May use any type style as long as it contrasts to the color of the hull.

d. All of the above.

14. When a vessel changes owners, is it necessary for the new owner to apply for a new registration number or certificate of number?

a. No, unless the new owner is leaving the state, since the number stays the same

b. Yes, even if the new owner is staying in the state and the number stays the same

c. This is one of those items requiring VE knowledge of the local/state laws since individual states have different requirements

d. Yes, but If the new owner trades in one boat for the other, the owner can just transfer the numbers from the “old” boat to the “new” boat without incurring the cost of a new registration

15. You come across a brand new vessel without registration numbers. The owner shows you a bill of sale and states that s/he is awaiting the Certificate of Number for the state. Can you conduct a VSC on this vessel?

a. No, if it doesn’t have a number, there’s no way to record it on Form 204.

b. No, the boat is not in compliance with state/federal requirements. And, since it will fail the VSC as a result of this, don’t waste your time.

c. Yes, but make sure you let the owner know about the proper spacing, size and coloring of the numbers. Also, note this information on Form 204.

d. Yes, but withhold the decal until you re-examine the vessel once the numbers are placed on the boat.

16. A documented recreational vessel is required to:

a. Display the name and hailing port on the stern in letters at least 4” high.

b. Display the name and hailing port on some conspicuous part of the hull in letters at least 4” high.

c. Display the name and hailing port on both sides of the bow and stern in letters at least 4” high.

d. Have the official number and net tonnage painted on the main beam in letters at least 4” high.

17. A vessel being examined meets VSC requirements for PFDs. There are also three PFDs on board with rips, tears and unreadable labels. The owner should be advised that:

a. The boat does not qualify for a VSC decal until the defective PFDs are replaced or disposed of.

b. Damaged PFDs may remain on board but may be used only in an emergency.

c. Damaged PFDs may be kept on board as long as the proper amount of approved, serviceable PFDs are on board.

d. Damaged PFDs may not serve their designed purpose and should be destroyed.

18. At least one wearable PFD for each person on board must be on board to meet VSC requirements for boats that are:

a. All vessels

b. 26’ or greater in length

c. 40’ or greater in length

d. Less than 16’ in length

19. Inflatable PFDs are becoming more and more popular. You are examining a 22’ stern drive vessel with two adults and two pre-teen children aboard. They proudly show you their four new inflatable PFDs, still in the manufacturer’s original packaging. If everything else is okay, can you issue a VSC decal?

a. No. Inflatable PFDs are not yet Coast Guard Approved so they don’t count as acceptable for carriage

b. No, inflatable PFDs are not approved for children under 16 years of age and since they are Type V PFDs they must be worn to count.

c. Yes, but be sure to recommend that they remove them from the packaging since PFDs in plastic are not readily accessible.

d. Yes, but you need to remove them from the packaging, examine the firing device by removing the CO2 cartridge to determine it has not been used.

20. You are checking the PFDs on a 15’ bowrider with a 90 hp outboard motor and three adults aboard. You find they have a total of four new (still in their plastic package) Type II PFDs in a nice, dry locked compartment right by the helm. If everything else passes, can you issue a decal?

a. Certainly, since there are only three adults aboard, they have more than they need.

b. Yes, but remind them to use the spare Type II as though it were a Type IV.

c. No, Type II PFDs have to be immediately available and a compartment means they’re not immediately available.

d. No, Type II PFDs have to be readily accessible. Keeping them in plastic and in a locked compartment does not meet this requirement.

21. You’re checking a PWC. When you ask the owners where they operate the PWC on coastal waters, they say, “no”. Then, when you ask them if they have flares or other Visual Distress Signals aboard, they reply, “no.” If everything else is okay, can you issue a VSC decal to this PWC?

a. No, the VSC program is designed for real powerboats and sailboats. We can look at PWCs, but no matter how well equipped, we cannot give these thrill craft a decal.

b. No, all vessels must have flares that are not expired when operating in coastal waters and PWC operators are no exceptions.

c. Yes, if the PWCs is less than 16 feet and operating during the day, then no VDS are required. However, suggest to the owners that they carry a distress signal flag and explain how to properly use their arms in the universally understood distress signal.

d. Yes, but make the owners promise to only operate on inland waters since inland waters have different and much less stringent VDS requirements.

22. You are checking a 27’ cabin cruiser with two people on board. When asked to present their Visual Distress Signals, they show you three hand-held red flares that expire at a date later than your VSC. Will these suffice for the purposes of the VSC?

a. No, all vessels over 26’ must have three day and three night signals. The flares are good for night, but they need three others for day.

b. No, the hand-held flares are good for directing the rescue craft to the disabled boat, but they need aerial flares to attract attention first. The only exception is in states where percussion type distress signals are prohibited.

c. Yes, vessel length is only significant for boats longer than 39.4’. Only in that case does the boat have to have three VDS designated for day and three VDS designated for night.

d. Yes, all vessels 16’ and over must be equipped with a minimum of three CG approved Visual Distress Signals when operating on coastal waters..

23. You’re checking an 18’ open sailboat without any propulsion machinery. What are the carriage requirements for Visual Distress Signals so that you could issue a decal?

a. This boat is exempted from carrying any Visual Distress Signals.

b. This boat needs three day/night VDSs since all vessels 16’ and over, operating on the high seas and the Coastal Waters must be equipped with CG Approved Visual Distress Signals.

c. Since this boat is longer than 16 feet, but less than 39.4 feet, it only needs to have some type of signal available in times of distress. It doesn’t have to have a written distress plan like larger boats need.

d. A sailboat this small should not be out on the high seas or even the Coastal Waters. Because it is so dangerous it needs the full complement of approved Visual Distress Signals.

24. What are the criteria for deciding if the VDS on board are acceptable for issuance of the decal?

a. The expiration date marked on it must be current, within 42 months of the date of manufacture.

b. All signals must be marked with the approval number assigned by the Coast Guard.

c. All pyrotechnic devices must be properly sealed with all wrappings intact to prevent moisture damage.

d. All of the above.

25. While checking a 23’ stern drive boat, you see they have a fixed system fire extinguisher with an inspection tag that indicates it’s been weighed within the last year. The boat doesn’t have any other fire extinguishers aboard. Can you issue the VSC decal?

a. No, all motorboats with inboard engines must carry at least one B-1 fire extinguisher.

b. No, fixed extinguishers have to be weighed every six months and refilled if the weight is off by more than 10%.

c. Yes, but recommend that the boater purchase a hand portable B-1 or BC-1 to have available for fires other than in the engine compartment.

d. Yes, but first you have to make sure that red light goes on at the alarm panel when you press the fixed system test button.

26. For award of the VSC decal, the minimum number and size of fire extinguishers required aboard recreational boats is determined by the vessel’s

a. Length

b. Propulsion method

c. Construction (open or closed)

d. All of the above

27. If you were checking a 21’ inboard boat that had a CO2 fire extinguisher, under what circumstances would it be eligible for a VSC decal?

a. It has an inspection tag from a recognized authority dated within the last year.

b. The pressure gauge is within the green and the seals and tamper indicators are not broken or missing.

c. It would never be eligible for a VSC decal since CO2 consumes the oxygen from the air and is too dangerous for use on recreational boats operated by civilians.

d. Since CO2 is discharged at sub-zero temperatures, it should not be used aboard recreational boats and therefore the boat would not be eligible for a VSC decal.

28. Ventilation requirements for award of a VSC decal are applicable to all recreational boats using fuel having a flash point of 110( or less, except:

a. A sailboat with an auxiliary outboard engine using an enclosed fuel compartment containing a five-gallon portable fuel tank.

b. A ten-year old cabin cruiser with an open engine compartment and an enclosed fuel compartment.

c. A brand new outboard boat with a seven-gallon portable fuel tank located in a closed compartment.

d. A 20’ outboard boat of open construction.

29. You are checking a 25’ stern drive boat built in 1995. What are the requirements for issuance of the decal relative to ventilation?

a. This boat needs a working powered ventilation system that is properly installed and that contains a warning label by the ignition switch.

b. Since this vessel is not technically an inboard boat, it does not need anything more than a natural ventilation system.

c. Since this vessel is built after 31 July 1980, you can look at the Compliance Plate to make sure that it meets the ventilation requirements. This means you don’t have to do anything further to verify the ventilation on the boat.

d. Since the requirements are too complicated for most civilians to understand, the Vessel Safety Check Manual has made it easy for the VE. All you need to do is lift the cover of the engine compartment and smell if there are any gas fumes. If there are no gas fumes, you can issue the decal.

30. Which of the following are good techniques for checking the ventilation system on a gasoline powered inboard boat?

a. Look into the fuel and engine compartments or spaces for evidence of leaks.

b. Have the owner turn on the blower so that the air exhausting from the blower can be felt.

c. Check the date of manufacture and depending on that date, check that the type of ventilation is appropriate for the year of manufacture.

d. All of the above.

31. When there is a permanent fuel tank compartment without an electrical source of ignition in the compartment and everything else has passed, can you issue the VSC decal?

a. Yes, as long as the ducting is connected to the blower intake and extends only into the top third of the compartment.

b. Yes, as long as the fuel tank is vented to the outside of the boat.

c. No, permanent fuel tanks can rust and puncture. They should not be contained in special compartments.

d. No, since the compartment doesn’t have enough room to contain the exhaust ducting and cowls required by the Coast Guard.

32. When you are checking a boat with an inboard engine that has an automotive air cleaner, can you issue the VSC decal?

a. Yes, with the modern fuel injected engines the chance of a backfire is minimized so this part no longer needs to be Coast Guard Approved.

b. Yes, but the cleaner must be free of dirt and grease and properly bolted down.

c. No, the use of automotive air filters is prohibited.

d. No, since VEs are not required to have the owner take apart the carburetor and air filter system, we have no way of knowing how well it has been installed.

33. An acceptable means of backfire flame control is required on:

a. All gasoline powered inboard engines installed in a closed compartment.

b. Outboard engines.

c. Diesel engines installed in a closed compartment.

d. All of the above.

34. To be acceptable for a VSC decal, an approved backfire flame control must:

a. Be tightly secured with flame tight connections.

b. Be readily accessible.

c. Be cleaned with gasoline or other petrochemical cleanser.

d. Be loosely secured to the air intake to allow sufficient air to the carburetor.

35. For the purposes of the VSC decal, the bell, if required:

a. Must be properly mounted.

b. Doesn’t have to be mounted.

c. Must be mounted near the helm station.

d. Must be Coast Guard Approved.

36. Which of the following require an efficient sound signaling device to comply with the Navigation Rules.

a. All vessels.

b. Only Class I motorboats, from 16’ to less than 26’

c. Only Class II motorboats, from 26’ to less than 40’

d. Only Class A motorboats, less than 16’, including PWCs

37. When checking a 27’ stern drive boat, the owner cannot produce the pole for the combined stern and masthead light. Is the boat eligible for the VSC decal?

a. No, even though it is daylight, the VE must ensure that the boat is able to display the proper navigation lights.

b. No, it doesn’t matter where the pole is, that lighting configuration isn’t legal on a boat longer than 26’.

c. Yes, if the owner advises you that the boat only gets underway during daylight.

d. Yes, but the owner needs to promise the VE that the pole will always be onboard in the future.

38. When checking a 17’ outboard motor boat, the sidelights do not go out when the owner activates the anchor light. Can you issue a decal?

a. No, if the boat were anchored with its sidelights on, other boaters would be confused and think the boat was underway, thereby increasing the chance of a collision.

b. No, but the VE should offer to trace the wiring back to the panel and help the owner correct the problem.

c. Yes, but the owner must promise not to anchor the boat until the lights are fixed.

d. Yes, but the owner has to put black tape over the running lights when anchored.

39. If you are checking a 25’ sailboat equipped with propulsion machinery, what navigation lights must it be able to display for award of the VSC decal?

a. The light configuration for a sailboat only.

b. The light configuration for a powerboat only.

c. The light configuration for both a sailboat and a powerboat.

d. Either sail or power (at the owner’s choice), but not both.

40. The color of the 112.5( navigation light would be:

a. White or Yellow.

b. Red Only.

c. Green Only.

d. Red or Green.

41. When checking a 22’ sailboat with no propulsion machinery, you notice that it is not equipped with any navigation lights. Is the boat eligible for the VSC decal?

a. No, even though it is a sailboat, it must be able to display the proper navigation lights.

b. No, sailboats are very slow and cannot easily get out the way in the event of a possible collision. Without navigation lights other boaters won’t see them.

c. Yes, but the owner must carry an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light that should be displayed in sufficient time to prevent a collision.

d. Yes, sailboats are specifically exempted from any requirements to carry navigation lights.

42. The Oily Waste Discharge Placard must be posted in the machinery space or at the bilge pump control station of all vessels:

a. 39.4 feet and longer.

b. 26 feet and longer.

c. Registered or documented in the United States.

d. With oil in the bilge.

43. A 32 foot pleasure boat with an inboard engine has a 6 by 9 inch Pollution Placard posted in a visible location in the head. Would you accept this boat as meeting the requirements of Item 10 on the Form 204?

a. No. The Pollution Placard is in the wrong location.

b. No. The Pollution Placard must be 5 by 8 inches in size.

c. Yes. The Pollution Placard is not required on a pleasure boat.

d. Yes. The boat meets all requirements of Item 10 of the Form 204.

44. One or more MARPOL Trash Placards must be posted in a prominent place visible to all passengers and crew in boats:

a. 65’ and longer.

b. 39.4 feet and longer

c. 26’ and longer.

d. 16’ and longer.

45. When checking a 45’ cabin cruiser with a family of four living aboard, what is required for issue of the VSC decal relative to trash?

a. Any vessel over 39.4’ equipped with berths and a galley must have a macerator for trash disposal.

b. All vessels over 26’ equipped with berths and a galley must have a means of disposing of trash that prevents the discharge of graywater within the navigable waters of the United States.

c. On vessels over 40’, in addition to the MARPOL Trash Placard, there must also be a written Waste Management Plan.

d. Any vessel over 26’ equipped with berths and a galley must have a Coast Guard Approved holding tank for trash and garbage.

46. You are checking a 40’ trawler with two cabins and one head. The owner shows you the key to the head and states that no one may use the head in a no-discharge area since the key is always with the owner and the door is locked. Is the trawler eligible for a decal?

a. No, there’s no guarantee that sewage still can’t be discharged overboard. The flow through discharge must be secured in a better manner than that.

b. No, Any vessel over 39.4’ equipped with berths and a head must have a macerator for sewage disposal.

c. Yes, if it is a Type I or II MSD and the MSD has the appropriate label showing Coast Guard Approval.

d. Yes, if the owner can show you a receipt dated within the last six months that the waste was pumped out at a legal pump out station.

47. Federal regulations require a copy of the Navigation Rules to be carried on board and maintained for ready reference on:

a. All vessels operating on bodies of water wider than 3 miles at the mouth of the river or harbor

b. All vessels 39.4 feet and longer

c. All vessels 26’ and longer.

d. All sailboats 16’ and longer.

48. You are checking a vessel required to carry the Navigation Rules. The owner proudly shows you the hard plastic card that is always at the helm station as a quick reference Navigation Rules card. Is this adequate for issuance of a VSC decal?

a. No, while this is a good idea, the vessel must have a complete and current copy of the Navigation Rules aboard.

b. No, these cards are permanently marked with the rules and there is no way to update them when the rules are changed or modified.

c. Yes, but the operator must also own and maintain a copy of the Navigation Rules publication (COMDTINST M16672.2 [series]).

d. Yes, the Navigation Rules book is difficult to reference and often becomes unreadable in the damp environment of the helm station.

49. You are checking a 21’ cuddy cabin boat with a 200 horsepower outboard. You are in a state that requires operator certificates for anyone born after September 30, 1970. From a conversation with the owner it is obvious that s/he is 22 years old and hasn’t taken a course and does not have the certificate. If everything else is okay, can this boat be issued a VSC decal?

a. No, under State Requirements the VE must check all State Requirements in addition to Federal Regulations. It is important that the VE keep apprised of all state requirements.

b. No, since you are a knowledgeable VE, you realize the danger of having an uneducated boater out on the waters and rightly withhold the decal.

c. Yes, the VE is not law enforcement. But the VE should call the local marine authorities and get this unsafe boater off the water.

d. Yes, since the VE is only responsible for checking equipment directly related to vessel safety or items on the VSC checklist. However, as part of the one-on-one exchange, recommend the owner take an approved course.

50. A VSC is being performed on a 16’ boat equipped with a 150 horsepower outboard motor. The capacity plate shows a maximum horsepower rating of 90. The VE should:

a. Award the decal but advise the boater that the boat/motor combination is unsafe.

b. Withhold the decal and advise the boater that the boat/motor combination is unsafe.

c. Award the decal since boat horsepower and capacity plates are not VSC requirements.

d. Withhold the decal and report the boater to the local marine law enforcement authorities for their own good.

51. In checking a vessel’s electrical installation, which of the following would be cause for withholding the VSC decal?

a. Wiring harnesses that are routed high in the bilge and held in position with plastic wire ties.

b. Wiring that uses manual reset circuit breakers instead of fuses.

c. Switches and fuse or circuit breaker panels exposed to rain or spray.

d. All of the above.

52. You are checking a brand-new 19’ open fisherman with two 90 horsepower outboard motors. The owner has purchased the “Coast Guard Kit” from the dealer. When you check the batteries you see that they are in their own enclosed compartment along with the battery switch. Can you issue the decal?

a. Yes, since the owner has the Coast Guard Kit it is obvious that they have serious concern for the safety of the boat and passengers.

b. Yes, as long as the batteries are secured and the terminals are covered.

c. No, having batteries in an enclosed compartment is dangerous since batteries need to vent excess hydrogen.

d. No, a Coast Guard Kit has nothing to do with batteries and therefore is the owner’s way of directing the VE away from this dangerous condition.

53 Which portable fuel tank would not be acceptable for the VSC decal?

a. One that is shallow dinged and scratched but free of leaks.

b. One that has an inoperative vent.

c. One that has an inoperative fuel gauge.

d. One that is intended for use only as a spare.

54. You are checking a PWC with a maximum speed of 75 mph. When you ask the owner to show you the “kill switch” you are told that it doesn’t work. Is this acceptable for a VSC decal?

a. No, all vessels under 21’ need to have operable kill switches.

b. No, PWCs are thrill craft and the VE shouldn’t even be checking these. They are not eligible for VSC decals.

c. No, the device must be in working order. The VE needs to discuss the importance of hooking this up every time the PWC is used.

d. Yes, because we don’t need to check these items. As long as the PWC operator has on the proper PFD for a maximum speed of 75 mph, the intent of the VSC is satisfied.

55. While checking a 21’ open center console recreational boat with a 200 horsepower outboard motor, the four passengers commence loading 10 diving tanks onto the boat. When you ask the owner about racks or other means of securing the tanks, you are told that they don’t have any. Can you issue the decal?

a. No, for issue of the decal the equipment must be stowed in a neat and orderly manner. Loose tanks are like the proverbial loose cannons on deck – very dangerous.

b. No, it’s obvious that the owner is taking out these passengers for hire on a diving trip and since you haven’t been shown a captain’s license this is an illegal commercial vessel for hire with out the necessary “6-pack” license.

c. Yes. The calculation for maximum number of person’s on board is length x width divided by 15 equals the number of 150 pound people allowed on board. Therefore, (21x8)/15 = 10 people or 1500 pounds. With only five people on board that leaves 900 pounds for tanks.

d. Yes, diving tanks and other gear are not part of the requirements for a VSC.

56. During the educational exchange while conducting a VSC on a 59’ trawler, the owner tells you about a planned trip overseas to some real interesting ports of call. When you ask about an FCC license for the VHF radio and EPIRB, the owner states that since they’re a recreational vessel, the boat doesn’t need an FCC license. Is the owner correct and how does this affect the VSC decal?

a. As soon as this boat leaves the waters of the United States it is no longer classified as a recreational vessel. As a result, it must have an FCC license. You cannot issue a decal.

b. As long as the owner includes the name or registration/documentation number of the vessel whenever using the radio, an FCC license is not required. Therefore, you can issue a decal.

c. The owner must obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) prior to this trip. Until the owner can show the VE the boat’s MMSI, you must withhold the decal.

d. Although any recreational vessel traveling on an international voyage needs to have an FCC license for the VHF radio, a marine radio is not within the scope of the mandated requirements for a VSC decal. Therefore, you can issue a decal.

57. A 26’ motorboat is being checked and has only one manual bailer or dewatering device. In this case, the VSC decal:

a. Is not affected. There is no Federal requirement relative to dewatering.

b. May be awarded if the device is in good condition and will serve its intended purpose.

c. May not be awarded. Any vessel longer than 16’ requires two methods of dewatering – one automatic and one manual.

d. Is not affected so long as the automatic bilge pump is connected to a separate battery.

58. When checking a 19’ cuddy cabin boat with an outboard motor you find that the owner keeps the fire extinguisher in the carpeted storage section next to the helm. Is this acceptable for the fire extinguisher relative to the issuance of the VSC decal?

a. No, fire extinguishers must be mounted in a Coast Guard Approved mounting bracket to be acceptable for the decal.

b. No, the fire extinguisher needs to be permanently protected from rain and spray and this area could be exposed to the elements.

c. Yes, as long as there is a fire extinguisher the requirements for the VSC decal have been met.

d. Yes, as long as the area is easily accessed and clearly visible. However, suggest to the owner that the fire extinguisher be mounted near the helm. This way it is always in the same place, clearly visible and could not accidentally be activated.

59. Which of the following statements is true regarding anchors and anchor line for award of the VSC decal on a 24’ open fisherman?

a. Currently there is no federal regulation requiring that a recreational vessel carry aboard at least one anchor and suitable amount of line. However, it is highly recommended to prevent the vessel from running into danger.

b. To be acceptable for the decal, anchors must conform to standard configurations. Anchor lines must be made of nylon to ensure there is enough stretch to accommodate tidal changes.

c. A boat must be equipped with at least one suitable anchor and anchor line for award of the VSC decal.

d. An iron bar, concrete block or similar device is not considered a suitable anchor and should not even be aboard a boat.

60. You are checking a 20’ inboard vessel with a small pilothouse. Does the boat need to be equipped with a first aid kit to qualify for the VSC decal?

a. No, everyone’s needs are different and equipping first aid kits for individual, unique medical requirements would be too costly to expect from the boater.

b. No, but it is sound VE practice to recommend that the owner have a first aid kit on board to handle medical emergencies.

c. Yes, with the increased horsepower of the today’s engines, the Coast Guard is noticing a trend to more and more accidents. Therefore, first aid kits are becoming as necessary as fire extinguishers and PFDs.

d. Yes, it is the responsibility of the VE to make sure that each boat is not only equipped with a first aid kit, but that any medicines in it must not be past their expiration date.

61. You are checking a 21’ flats boat at a ramp on a small bay defined by the Navigation Rules as Inland. What is the requirement for carriage of Visual Distress Signals as related to the issuance of the VSC decal?

a. Regardless of Inland or International, a 21’ vessel must have on board three suitable day/night VDS with Coast Guard approval numbers and unexpired dates.

b. Even though the owner told the VE that the boat stays “inside”, a 21’ flats boat can also navigate in International waters. Therefore, all provisions for a vessel this size prevail including carriage of day/night VDS with Coast Guard approval numbers and unexpired dates.

c. The Coast Guard requires some means of making a suitable day and night distress signal. This could include expired flares if they’re in serviceable condition, a light for night use or even the universal distress arm signals for day use.

d. Since the Coast Guard doesn’t have jurisdiction on Inland waters, they cannot dictate any requirements for visual distress signals. However, the VSC program goes beyond the mere federal and state requirements and you must see suitable VDS for issuance of the decal.

62. You are nearing the end of the VSC and discussing the requirements that a boat owner has in reporting accidents. You would be accurate if you passed the following information:

a. If there is any personal injury which requires medical treatment beyond first aid, a report has to be filed with the state/local authorities

b. If there is complete loss of the vessel or damage greater that $500, a formal report must be made within 10-days of the accident.

c. Even if the owner is not aboard, as long as the boat is used with permission, the owner can be held responsible.

d. All of the above.

63. An owner asks you if it is true that a boater must help another boater in danger at sea. Your proper response would be:

a. No, while it would certainly be nice to do under the Golden Rule, it certainly is not necessary.

b. No, most recreational boaters are not properly trained and equipped to help other boaters on the water. Leave that to the professionals.

c. Yes, you must help anyone or anything on the water that is in danger. The “me” generation is passed and new laws are now in place that all boaters must save other boaters in danger regardless of the circumstances.

d. Yes, an owner or operator must render assistance to another boater in danger at sea as long as this can be safely done. The Good Samaritan Law even protects the owner or operator.

64. You are performing a VSC in a state that requires all vessels to carry an anchor and anchor line. The 13’ jon boat you’re checking doesn’t have one on board. Can you issue a VSC decal since anchors are on the “right” side of the Form 204?

a. No, regardless of which side of the Form 204 the item is on, item 14 on the left side of the form requires compliance with state and/or local laws.

b. No, if you signed off on a boat without an anchor when the state requires one, the fine is transferred to you instead of the offending boat owner.

c. Yes, anchors and anchor lines are just good ideas and recommended by the VSC program. However, the VE is not law enforcement so you should issue the decal.

d. Yes, some states have initiated laws that are impractical. Since a small 13’ jon boat couldn’t carry enough anchor line to reach to the bottom of a deep lake anyway, issue the decal.

65. When checking a 25’ cabin cruiser, the owner proudly shows you a cell phone that s/he has preprogrammed with the telephone number of the local Coast Guard Station in preparation of any trouble. What should your position, if any, be on a cell phone aboard the vessel?

a. Having a cell phone onboard as the primary means of communications for distress is an excellent idea. The new digital phones have much longer ranges and the foresight the owner showed in preprogramming the number is the sign of a well-prepared boater.

b. Cell phones are dangerous in a wet environment. If the cell phone gets wet, contact with the user’s ear can cause a fatal shock. Cell phones and boats don’t mix.

c. Cell phones are good to have on board to back up a VHF-FM radio when operating within range of a cell tower. However, beyond about 10 miles from shore, cell phones become unreliable.

d. Cell phones should not be aboard vessels since most owners will talk on them while driving the boat and their inattention often results in collisions

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