What are the four principles of ORM?
a. Accept Risk when Benefits Outweigh the Cost
b. Accept No Unnecessary Risk.
c. Anticipate and Manage Risk by Planning.
d. Make Risk Decisions at the Right Level.
Explain the following as they apply to ORM:
a. Identifying hazards
b. Assessing hazards
c. Making risk decisions
d. Implementing controls
e. Supervising
Identify hazards: Recognize potential risks that could impact the mission or task.
Assess the hazards: Evaluate the severity and likelihood of these risks.
Make risk decisions: Decide on the best course of action by weighing the risks against the benefits.
Implement controls: Put measures in place to mitigate or eliminate the risks.
Supervise and watch for change: Monitor the situation and adjust as needed.
Explain the purpose of good housekeeping practices in engineering spaces. [ref. d, ch. C1]
Good housekeeping in engineering spaces keeps the area clean, safe, and organized. It reduces accidents, prevents equipment damage, and ensures everything is easy to find and use.
Discuss the importance of bolted deck plates, gratings, and handrails. [ref. d, chs. C1, C13]
Bolted deck plates, gratings, and handrails are important for safety. They prevent slips, trips, and falls, keep equipment secure, and protect people from hazards in work areas.
Explain the hazards of flammable liquids in the bilge. [ref. m, sec. 2]
Flammable liquids in the bilge pose serious hazards, including:
Fire and Explosion Risk – Bilges often contain heat sources, electrical equipment, and confined spaces, making them highly susceptible to ignition.
Toxic Vapors – Accumulated flammable liquids can release harmful fumes, leading to respiratory issues or even unconsciousness in enclosed areas.
Environmental Contamination – Leaks or spills can pollute surrounding waters, violating environmental regulations.
Impaired Equipment Function – Oil or fuel in the bilge can clog pumps and filters, reducing operational efficiency.
Discuss the safety precautions to be followed prior to and when entering a void or poorly ventilated space. [ref. k, sec. 19]
Entering a void or poorly ventilated space requires strict safety measures to prevent accidents and health hazards. Key precautions include:
Test the atmosphere: Check for harmful gases, lack of oxygen, or flammable substances using appropriate detectors.
Ventilate the space: Ensure proper ventilation to remove harmful gases and introduce fresh air.
Use PPE: Wear personal protective equipment like respirators, gloves, and helmets as needed.
Follow the buddy system: Never enter alone; have someone outside to assist in case of emergencies.
Secure the area: Use barriers or signs to prevent unauthorized entry.
Carry emergency equipment: Have rescue tools and communication devices readily available.
Receive proper training: Ensure all personnel are trained to work in confined spaces.
Explain the first-aid procedures for treatment of acid on skin and/or in eyes. [ref. l, sec. 6]
For skin: Rinse the affected area with plenty of water immediately for at least 15-20 minutes. Remove any contaminated clothing carefully. Avoid using any creams or ointments unless directed by medical professionals.
For eyes: Flush the eyes with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15-20 minutes. Keep the eyelids open while rinsing. Seek medical attention immediately after flushing.
Explain the first-aid procedures for electrical shock. [ref. d, ch. C9]
Ensure safety: Turn off the power source or use a non-conductive object (like wood) to separate the person from the electricity. Do not touch them directly if they are still in contact with the current.
Call for help: Dial emergency services immediately.
Check responsiveness: If the person is unresponsive, check for breathing and pulse.
Perform CPR if needed: If there’s no breathing or pulse, start CPR until medical help arrives.
Treat burns: Cover any burns with a sterile gauze or clean cloth. Avoid using materials like towels that might stick to the burns.
Prevent further harm: Keep the person warm and still, and avoid moving them unless there’s immediate danger.
Explain the safety precautions to follow when working on or close to electrical circuits. [ref. d, ch. C9]
Discuss the safety precautions to be observed and PPE required in the following situations: [ref. d]
a. Replenishment-at-sea operations [ch. C3]
b. Working aloft [ch. C8]
c. Heavy weather (U/W) [ch. C16]
d. Working with paint [ch. C18]
e. Working with electrical/electronic equipment [ch. C9]
f. Operating portable electric tools [chs. C9, C13]
g. Welding, cutting, and brazing [ch. C11]
h. Working with workshop equipment [ch. C13]
i. Handling hazardous material [ch. C23]
j. Working with pneumatic tools [ch. C13]
a. Replenishment-at-sea: Wear a life jacket, gloves, and a helmet. Stay alert and follow signals closely.
b. Working aloft: Use a safety harness, helmet, and non-slip boots. Secure tools and equipment.
c. Heavy weather (underway): Wear non-slip footwear and secure yourself and loose items. Move carefully.
d. Working with paint: Use gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Ensure proper ventilation.
e. Electrical/electronic work: Turn off power, wear insulated gloves and goggles, and use tools with insulated handles.
f. Portable electric tools: Inspect tools before use, wear gloves and goggles, and avoid wet areas.
g. Welding, cutting, brazing: Wear a welding helmet, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing. Ensure proper ventilation.
h. Workshop equipment: Use goggles, gloves, and follow equipment safety rules.
i. Hazardous materials: Wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Handle with care and follow storage rules.
j. Pneumatic tools: Inspect tools for damage, wear goggles and gloves, and secure connections properly.
Explain the procedures for removing a victim from an energized circuit. [ref. d, ch. C9]
To safely remove a victim from an energized circuit, first de-energize the source if possible. If not, use non-conductive tools or equipment to separate the victim without direct contact. Once clear, call for medical assistance, begin first aid if trained, and report the incident through proper channels, following OPNAVINST 5100.19 (Series), Chapter C9.
Describe how changes in the body caused by the environment (sweat, moisture, etc.) change the way electrical shock affects the body. [ref. n, sec. 2]
Turn off the power: De-energize the circuit immediately, if possible, by switching off the power source or circuit breaker.
Use a non-conductive object: If you can’t turn off the power, use a dry, non-conductive item like wood or plastic to separate the victim from the circuit.
Avoid direct contact: Do not touch the victim with your bare hands while they are still in contact with the electricity.
Call for help: Contact emergency services right away.
Provide first aid: Once the victim is free, check for breathing and pulse. If necessary, perform CPR and treat burns until medical help arrives.
Discuss the emergency egress routes for the following scenarios:
a. Berthing/Living compartment [ref. p]
b. Major flammable liquid leak/class B fire [ref. q]
a. Berthing/Living Compartment: Identify the nearest exits and ensure they are clear and accessible. Use designated escape routes, and follow posted evacuation plans to exit safely.
b. Major Flammable Liquid Leak/Class B Fire: Evacuate immediately using the nearest safe exit. Avoid areas with fire or smoke, and follow emergency procedures to reach a safe zone.
Discuss the purpose of the Hearing Conservation Program. [ref. a, ch. B4]
To prevent noise-induced hearing loss and protect personnel from the harmful effects of hazardous noise.
A successful HCP that preserves
hearing is critical to safety, mission success and career sustainability.
Explain when audiograms are required. [ref. a, app. B-4A]
Audiograms are needed for employees exposed to loud noise (85 decibels or more over 8 hours). Everyone in the Hearing Conservation Program must get one yearly, starting within a year of their assignment, unless a noise survey shows their exposure is too low to require it.
Describe when single hearing protective devices (insert plugs or circumaural muffs) are mandatory. [ref. a, ch. B4]
Areas with noise levels of 85-96 dBA (continuous) or 140-165 dBP (impact) must be labeled as noise hazardous.
Single hearing protection is required in these areas.
Explain when double hearing protection is required. [ref. a, ch. B4]
Areas with 96 dBA or higher (continuous) or 165 dBP or higher (impact) must be labeled as noise hazardous.
Double hearing protection is required in these areas.
Discuss where hazardous noise warning labels and decals are posted.
[ref. a, ch. B4]
All noisy areas and equipment that could be dangerous must have clear signs at entrances, edges, or directly on the equipment.
Define an STS. [ref. a, app. B4-A]
Significant Threshold Shift, which is a change in hearing relative to a baseline
Discuss what action is taken if an STS is identified. [ref. a, app. B4-A]
Make sure anyone needing follow-up tests for hearing issues stays out of noisy areas (80 dB(A) or higher, or 140 dB peak) for at least 14 hours before their retest. They can’t use hearing protection to meet this requirement.
Discuss the training requirements for the Hearing Conservation Program.
[ref. a, ch. B4]
All personnel must complete Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) training before working in noise-hazardous areas or with noisy equipment, and then annually. Training covers:
Why the HCP is important and how noise affects hearing.
Identifying noise-hazardous areas and equipment.
Proper use, care, and pros/cons of hearing protection devices.
The need for hearing tests and how they work.
Rules for wearing hearing protection and consequences for not following them.
Risks to hearing outside of work.
Impact of hearing loss on career and promotions.
Communicating in noisy environments.
When is an IH Noise Survey required? [ref. a, ch. B4]
Personnel are exposed to potentially hazardous noise levels, typically at or above 84 dB(A) for an 8-hour time-weighted average, or 140 dB peak sound pressure.
New equipment is installed that may produce high noise levels.
Modifications or changes occur in the workspace that could alter noise exposure (e.g., equipment relocation, layout changes).
A complaint or report is made about high noise levels.
Reevaluation is needed, typically every 5 years, or as directed by the Industrial Hygiene Department.
Discuss the purpose of the Shipboard Heat Stress Control Program. [ref. a]
Ships must protect personnel from extreme heat and provide a safe work environment to reduce the risk of heat stress.
Discuss the responsibilities of the following personnel in the Shipboard Heat Stress Control Program: [ref. a]
a. Commanding Officer
a. Commanding Officer
(1) Establish and enforce an effective heat stress policy that ensures personnel heat
exposures are limited per this chapter except in an operational emergency.
(2) Review and initial daily, heat stress surveys that result in reduced stay times.
(3) Conduct an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding all heat injuries that result in
unconsciousness.
(4) Report to the ISIC those material deficiencies, beyond ship’s force capability to
correct, which contribute to heat stress conditions aboard the ship.
(5) Ensure at least two portable, calibrated, and operable WBGT meters are available
onboard.