Exam Question
During the watch main engine crank case mist detector alarm has sounded
(a) List the steps to be taken to meet this emergency situation. (8)
(b) Subsequent inspection and action required to put the engine on normal operation. (8)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEP
📅 Nov 2025
Reference Answer
### (a) Immediate Actions Upon Crankcase Mist Detector Alarm
Upon the sounding of the Main Engine Crankcase Oil Mist Detector (OMD) alarm, the immediate priority is to prevent a primary or secondary crankcase explosion while ensuring the safety of personnel and the vessel. The following steps must be executed methodically and promptly:
1. **Acknowledge Alarm & Initiate Automatic Slowdown:** Immediately acknowledge the alarm on the Engine Control Room (ECR) panel. Most modern engines are configured for an automatic slowdown to a safe, low RPM upon an OMD alarm. This action is critical as it reduces the mechanical and thermal load on the engine's running gear, thereby lowering the rate of heat generation at the source (the 'hotspot').
2. **Inform Command Team and Assess Navigational Situation:**
Upon the sounding of the Main Engine Crankcase Oil Mist Detector (OMD) alarm, the immediate priority is to prevent a primary or secondary crankcase explosion while ensuring the safety of personnel and the vessel. The following steps must be executed methodically and promptly:
1. **Acknowledge Alarm & Initiate Automatic Slowdown:** Immediately acknowledge the alarm on the Engine Control Room (ECR) panel. Most modern engines are configured for an automatic slowdown to a safe, low RPM upon an OMD alarm. This action is critical as it reduces the mechanical and thermal load on the engine's running gear, thereby lowering the rate of heat generation at the source (the 'hotspot').
2. **Inform Command Team and Assess Navigational Situation:**
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