Decontamination showers and eyewash stations
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the complete arrangement for emergency decontamination showers and eyewash stations is correctly located, maintained and understood by the crew expected to use it.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1How do you inspect emergency decontamination showers and eyewash stations before use?
Check water supply, activation, flow, temperature, cleanliness, drainage, signage, lighting and unobstructed access, then confirm the item is suitable for the intended hazard.
2Show the latest service status.
Match the physical identification and seal or marking to the service certificate and onboard inventory.
3How is this equipment used safely?
Explain immediate activation, clothing removal, flushing duration, alarm or assistance and medical escalation using the cargo SDS, including personal limitations and withdrawal criteria.
4What if an item is missing or discharged?
Replace it immediately with an equivalent approved item and record the defect and restoration.
5How do you know it is in the correct location?
Compare the fire-control plan, station marking, risk and approved inventory with the actual position.
Where an observation may arise
Required equipment was absent, obstructed or incorrectly located within the arrangement for emergency decontamination showers and eyewash stations.
Inspection identified blocked nozzle, contaminated water, inadequate flow, extreme temperature, seized valve or obstructed approach.
Service, pressure test or consumable replacement was overdue or not traceable.
The approved plan or inventory did not match the physical arrangement.
Crew could not explain immediate activation, clothing removal, flushing duration, alarm or assistance and medical escalation using the cargo SDS.
The equipment or extinguishing medium was unsuitable for the identified hazard.
Master's practical note
Select equipment from a remote station, not only the emergency headquarters. Condition and crew familiarity should be consistent across the vessel.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Use the approved inspection, demonstration and test method. Do not consume, contaminate, discharge or otherwise impair safety equipment solely to satisfy an interview.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 5.12.2
- IMO IBC Code Chapter 14
- IMO IGC Code Chapter 14
Last reviewed: 2026-09-13