***Talk to me about how you would carry out an
Accommodation inspection onboard as master? / How would you
carry out accommodation inspection?
Regulatory References
MLC 2006 – Regulation 3.1 (Accommodation, Recreational Facilities, Food & Catering).
MSN 1844 (M) – Accommodation of Crews Regulations.
COSWP (Code of Safe Working Practices).
Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Minimum Requirements for Seafarers
etc.) Regulations 2014.
👉 These require the Master to inspect accommodation areas at least weekly, and record results in the
Official Log Book.
My Approach as Master – Accommodation Inspection
1. Planning & Frequency
Conduct inspection at least once a week.
Normally done together with the Safety Officer and, where possible, a crew representative / safety
representative.
Inform crew in advance to encourage cooperation.
2. Areas to Inspect
Cabins: Cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, heating/aircon, bedding condition.
Sanitary spaces: Toilets, showers, washing facilities — adequate water supply, hygiene maintained.
Galley & Pantry: Cleanliness, food storage, refrigeration, pest control.
Mess rooms & recreation areas: Condition, comfort, adequate facilities.
Laundry facilities.
Medical locker/first aid room — properly maintained, accessible.
Common areas / alleyways: Free from obstruction, good lighting, safety signage.
Noise & vibration levels if crew complain.
3. Checks During Inspection
Verify against MLC standards (size, ventilation, temperature, sanitary requirements).
Adequacy of drinking water supply.
Pest-free environment.
Smoking restrictions being followed.
Crew comfort (privacy, space, access to recreation).
Check for maintenance defects and report to Chief Engineer / Shipowner.
4. Documentation
Record findings and actions taken in the Official Log Book.
If deficiencies found → raise a defect report and inform the DPA/company.
Ensure follow-up action is carried out and verified in the next inspection.
5. Crew Engagement
Give crew the chance to raise welfare concerns during inspection.
Encourage them to report issues directly to me or through the safety committee.
✅ Model Oral Answer (as Master)
“As Master, I am required under MLC 2006 Regulation 3.1 and MSN 1844 to inspect the accommodation
and galley areas at least once a week. I would carry out the inspection with the Safety Officer and a crew
representative, covering cabins, sanitary spaces, galley, mess rooms, recreation areas, and common spaces. I
would check for cleanliness, hygiene, ventilation, lighting, pest control, and general habitability. Any
deficiencies would be recorded in the Official Log Book, corrective actions raised with the responsible
department, and followed up until resolved. The inspection also allows me to engage with crew on welfare
concerns and demonstrate the company’s commitment to maintaining proper living conditions onboard.”
⚓ Orals Tip: If examiner asks follow-up: “Where do you record it?” → Official Log Book.
If asked: “Who accompanies you?” → Safety Officer + crew representative where possible.
Would you like me to also prepare a bullet-point checklist (like a “ready-to-recite” list of what to look at)
so you can answer fast if examiner asks “what exactly will you check”?
You said:
YES
ChatGPT said:
Perfect ⚓ — here’s your ready-to-recite Accommodation Inspection Checklist (MCA orals style):
Accommodation Inspection Checklist (as Master)
🔹 Cabins
Cleanliness and tidiness.
Lighting (natural & artificial) working.
Heating / ventilation / air conditioning.
Condition of bunks, mattresses, bedding.
Storage space adequate.
🔹 Sanitary Facilities
Toilets and showers clean and working.
Hot & cold water supply adequate.
Washing facilities (basins, soap, towels).
No sewage smell / leaks.
🔹 Galley & Pantry
Cleanliness and hygiene maintained.
Food stored properly (dry, refrigerated, frozen).
Refrigerators/freezers at correct temperatures.
Pest control measures in place.
Cook and food handlers following hygiene practices.
🔹 Mess Room & Recreation Areas
Tables, chairs, fittings clean and in good condition.
Adequate lighting and ventilation.
Drinking water facilities available.
TV, internet, books, games in working condition (where provided).
🔹 Laundry Facilities
Washing machines and dryers operational.
Drying rooms clean and ventilated.
🔹 Medical & First Aid Facilities
Medical locker / hospital space clean and stocked.
Medicines within expiry dates.
🔹 Common Areas & Passageways
Free from obstruction / tripping hazards.
Proper lighting.
Fire doors and safety signs in place.
🔹 General
No pest infestation (rats, cockroaches, bedbugs).
Noise & vibration levels acceptable.
Crew welfare concerns noted and addressed.
✅ Oral Exam Answer (Short Version)
If examiner asks “What exactly would you check during accommodation inspection?” you can say:
“I would check cabins for cleanliness, lighting, ventilation and bedding; sanitary facilities for hygiene and
water supply; galley and food storage for cleanliness, refrigeration and pest control; mess rooms and
recreation areas for comfort; laundry facilities; medical locker; and general spaces for lighting, safety and
absence of obstruction. All findings are recorded in the Official Log Book, and deficiencies are rectified
promptly.”
