NIMASA STCW PSSR study guide
NIMASA STCW PSSR · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The NIMASA STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSSR) certificate is the Nigerian administration's endorsement of the STCW competence standard in Regulation VI/2 and Code Section A-VI/2-1 for seafarers who take charge of a survival craft or rescue boat during and after launch, other than fast rescue boats. It is aimed at deck and engine officers, ratings assigned to survival craft or rescue boat duties, and candidates progressing toward a certificate of competency. The NIMASA STCW PSSR study guide has 8 sections and about 2,229 words.
01Survival craft and rescue boat construction, equipment and outfit
This domain tests how a survival craft is built, kept buoyant and equipped for its rated persons. Expect questions on totally enclosed lifeboats, rescue boats, buoyancy, watertight integrity and the LSA Code equipment scale.
299 words, about 1 min02Launching and recovery arrangements, davits and release gear
This domain tests the mechanical chain from grabline to water: davit type, falls, sheaves, winch, tricing and bowsing gear, and the release hook that lets the boat go. Gravity davits lower by controlled release of the brake; luffing and radial davits use powered or manual luffing.
323 words, about 2 min03Survival craft handling, launching and recovery in heavy weather
This domain tests boat handling and seamanship when the ship is rolling, the sea is running and the boat surges against the ship's side. Launch on the lee side where possible; use the ship as a breakwater.
310 words, about 2 min04Emergency procedures, abandon ship and survival at sea
This domain tests the decision to abandon, the signals and musters that follow, and the actions that keep survivors alive once clear of the ship. Abandon ship is a master's decision.
279 words, about 1 min05Life-saving appliance maintenance, inspection and drills
This domain tests the routine that keeps LSA ready: planned maintenance, inspections at the required intervals, drills and records. Weekly inspections cover survival craft, rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear for obvious defects, readiness and security.
254 words, about 1 min06Rescue boat operation, recovery of persons and casualty handling
This domain tests launching and handling a rescue boat for man overboard or person-in-water recovery, and the safe handling of the casualty once aboard. On man overboard: shout, throw a lifebuoy, keep visual contact, inform the bridge, and start recovery.
260 words, about 1 min07Use of radio and signalling equipment in survival craft
This domain tests distress alerts and visual signalling from a survival craft, including the correct use of GMDSS equipment and pyrotechnics. The EPIRB is a 406 MHz satellite distress beacon; carry it to the craft if assigned, activate it, and keep it clear of obstruction.
269 words, about 1 min08First aid, hypothermia and care of survivors
This domain tests casualty care in a survival craft: drowning, hypothermia, injuries, seasickness and the psychological care of survivors. Hypothermia: cold, pale, shivering then confused, slow pulse, unconscious.
235 words, about 1 min