Maritime Law and International Conventions
Conventions the officer must know
You must understand the core obligations under SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, COLREG, Load Line and MLC. Know the role of the flag state and the port state, and the meaning of port state control detention. Understand the ISM Code and the ISPS Code, including the ship security plan and the role of the ship security officer. Know the carrier's obligations under the Hague-Visby Rules and the significance of the bill of lading as a document of title.
Traps
A frequent trap is confusing the flag state with the port state: the flag state certifies, the port state inspects foreign ships. Another is assuming that a certificate of competency is issued by the port state; it is issued by the flag state or on its behalf. Watch for questions on the meaning of 'constructive total loss' and on general average, where sacrifice is shared proportionately. Also be careful with the difference between a charterparty and a bill of lading.
Worked rule of thumb
For general average, apply the principle that the loss is shared by all parties in proportion to their interests saved. Example: if cargo worth 800,000 and ship worth 200,000 are saved by jettisoning cargo worth 50,000, the sacrifice is apportioned over the total value saved. Remember that the bill of lading evidences the contract of carriage and acts as a receipt and document of title, while the charterparty is the contract between owner and charterer. Always check which convention governs before answering.