Things to note before the oral
• Format experienced by the candidate: 2 examiners, about 1 hour, 3 candidates. Much of the questioning was
open-floor, although an examiner may direct a question to a specific candidate.
• Do not rush. Answer exactly what was asked. Speaking faster can simply create room for more questions. A short,
correct and safe answer is better than adding uncertain details.
• Do not volunteer technical details you cannot defend. Examiners may drill into anything you introduce.
• Attire: attend in proper formal wear – long sleeves, long pants and suitable shoes.
• Use a safe oral structure: verify the condition -> immediate safety action -> inform the appropriate person/bridge ->
investigate logically -> rectify/restore -> record/report where required.
• Know your own ship. Maker-specific values, alarm settings, valve arrangements and procedures vary. Where this
guide gives typical FWG or machinery values, use them to understand the principle and verify the actual value from the
vessel/maker’s manual.
• Career/admin reminder from candidate experience: keep sea-service testimonials from each Chief Engineer and
ensure service/watchkeeping capacity is properly documented. Keep your Training and Assessment Record Book
(TARB) carefully – it may remain useful when progressing toward higher CoCs.