QUESTION 10.2.1

Emergency generator readiness and testing

Oil, Chemical, LPG, LNGExterior Decks

What is being checked

The inspector is checking whether the emergency generator can start from a blackout condition, connect to the emergency switchboard, carry required services and be started by the alternative means provided.

Ready onboard

0/6 complete

AUTO STARTTests verify automatic start and connection after loss of main electrical supply.LOAD TESTThe generator carries representative emergency load for the required test duration without abnormal voltage, frequency or leakage.SECOND STARTThe alternative or second starting arrangement is available, charged and tested.FUEL AND FLUIDSFuel level, fuel quality, cooling, lubrication and heaters meet the maker and statutory readiness condition.ROOM CONDITIONThe space is accessible, ventilated, dry, secure and free from unrelated storage.RECORDSWeekly, monthly and load-test records show results, defects and verified closure.

Practice questions

Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.

1What happens after total loss of main power?

Describe automatic start, breaker connection, sequential emergency loads and the actions if automatic starting fails.

2How do you prove the generator can carry load?

Show the prescribed loaded test and actual voltage, frequency, current and running condition, not only a no-load start.

3What is the alternative starting method?

Identify and demonstrate the fitted second battery, hydraulic, pneumatic or manual arrangement under the maker procedure.

4Which services receive emergency power?

Use the emergency-switchboard diagram and identify statutory lighting, communications, navigation, alarms, steering and fire-safety consumers as fitted.

5What defect would make the test misleading?

A warm engine, paralleled supply, isolated alarm or charged starting source not representative of blackout readiness can conceal failure.

Where an observation may arise

NO LOAD

Testing confirms starting but not connection and emergency-load capability.

START SOURCE

The second starting arrangement is discharged, isolated or untested.

AUTO FAILURE

Automatic start or breaker connection does not operate correctly.

ROOM DEFECT

Fuel leakage, poor ventilation, storage or access restriction compromises readiness.

RECORD GAP

Test frequency, result or defect closure cannot be demonstrated.

Past observations for practice

Human

The OP could not describe the purpose of the two timer switches (scale 0 sec to 6 sec) located inside the emergency feeder box.

Hardware

Leakage from current radiator unit for emergency generaor was observed.

Master's practical note

A successful warm no-load start is weak evidence. Review the last representative blackout or loaded test and confirm that both starting energy sources were independently available.

Equipment boundary and references

Equipment boundary: Exact starting time, duration and supplied services follow the ship's SOLAS design, flag approval and emergency-load analysis. Do not create a blackout solely for inspection.

References

OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 2, Version 1.0, Question 10.2.1
SOLAS Chapter II-1 regulations 42 and 43
IEC 60092 series
ISM Code section 10

Last reviewed: 2026-09-10