QUESTION 10.3.6

Watertight-door operation, testing and control

Oil, Chemical, LPG, LNGBridge, Engine Room

What is being checked

The inspector is checking whether watertight doors retain structural and operational integrity, can be closed locally and remotely as approved, and are not obstructed, lashed or misused.

Ready onboard

0/6 complete

CONDITIONDoor, frame, seals, guides, hydraulic or electric equipment and indicators are free from damage, leakage and corrosion.CLEAR PATHNo pipe, cable, staging, stores or temporary arrangement obstructs full closure.CONTROLSLocal and bridge controls, alarms, indicators and emergency hand operation function correctly.TESTSRequired weekly and voyage tests are completed and recorded under the approved procedure.DISCIPLINEDoors are kept closed at sea where required and transit control is understood.MAINTENANCEWork affecting a door receives formal control, testing and statutory or class involvement where required.

Practice questions

Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.

1How is this door closed after power failure?

Demonstrate or explain the approved local emergency method, stored energy and safety precautions.

2What does the bridge indicate?

Identify door identity, open or closed status, control mode and any fault or power indication.

3May the door be left open for ventilation or access?

Only within the approved SOLAS category and company procedure. Convenience does not override watertight integrity.

4What must be checked before a functional test?

Confirm the opening is clear, personnel are warned, communications are established and no work or services obstruct movement.

5What if a seal leaks or the door closes slowly?

Report and control the defect, assess watertight integrity and obtain repair and class or flag direction as applicable.

Where an observation may arise

OBSTRUCTION

Stores, hoses, cables or modifications prevent closure.

SECURED OPEN

A door is lashed or routinely retained open contrary to its category.

CONTROL DEFECT

Local, remote or emergency closure does not function.

INDICATION

Bridge status indication is wrong or unreliable.

POOR SEAL

Damage, corrosion or debris prevents effective seating.

Master's practical note

Inspect the sill and services passing through the opening. The most serious weakness is often a routine hose, cable or wedge that has made complete closure impossible.

Equipment boundary and references

Equipment boundary: Permitted operating status depends on the door's SOLAS category and approved damage-stability arrangement. Never test closure without controlling personnel exposure.

References

OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 2, Version 1.0, Question 10.3.6
SOLAS Chapter II-1 regulations 13 and 22
MSC.1/Circ.1564/Rev.1, Revised guidance for watertight doors
ISM Code section 10

Last reviewed: 2026-09-10