Radio and mobile-device safety during cargo operations
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether only appropriately certified portable equipment is used in hazardous areas and communications do not create ignition, distraction or control failure during cargo and ballast operations, and whether plans, records and interviews demonstrate that the procedure is applied during real voyages rather than completed only as paperwork.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1What is the operational purpose of radio and mobile-device safety during cargo operations?
Only appropriately certified portable equipment is used in hazardous areas and communications do not create ignition, distraction or control failure during cargo and ballast operations.
2Show how the procedure was applied on the last voyage.
Inspect portable-radio markings and inventory, cargo checklists, visitor controls and actual devices in use on deck and in the cargo control room.
3Which decision requires the Master's judgement?
The responsible officer decides whether equipment certification and condition suit the zone and whether communication can continue without compromising the operation.
4What happens if the planned control becomes invalid?
Remove and isolate the unsuitable device, stop affected work if communication is essential, provide approved equipment and report any suspected exposure or defect.
5How are changes communicated and recorded?
Brief the affected bridge and machinery personnel, amend the controlled plan or record, obtain required approval and retain the reason and revised limits.
Where an observation may arise
Records exist but the bridge team cannot relate them to the actual voyage or operation.
A material change is not reassessed, approved, briefed or recorded.
A normal phone, radio, camera or wearable enters a hazardous area.
Intrinsic-safety marking is damaged, unsuitable or cannot be verified.
Too few working approved radios cause unsafe relaying or loss of emergency stop communication.
Master's practical note
Read the radio's actual Ex marking rather than relying on colour or company sticker. An intrinsically safe model can become non-compliant with the wrong battery or accessory.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Hazardous-area restrictions depend on the vessel's approved zone plan and terminal rules. VHF transmission power and fixed-equipment use require the specific tanker and terminal procedure.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 4.4.6
- SOLAS Chapter II-2
- ISGOTT, current edition
- IEC 60079 series
- IEC 60092-502
Last reviewed: 2026-09-11