🔍 Key Concepts

• 46 CFR requirements for towing vessel machinery and engineering controls • Which vessels may have special exemptions from full communication systems • The operational difference between towing on a wire/line versus direct engine control from the wheelhouse

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: in which situation is it MOST critical for the wheelhouse to talk quickly and clearly with the engineer? • Which type of vessel or operation would reasonably be expected to run safely even if the operator directly controls the engines? • Look at each choice and imagine an emergency: which one could realistically operate without shouting down a voice tube, phone, or intercom to the engine room?

✅ Before You Answer

• For each answer choice, decide if the engineer is normally in the engine room during maneuvering or if the operator directly controls the engines • Verify which option inherently reduces the need for separate engine-room personnel • Check the wording carefully: the exception will be the case where a dedicated internal communication system adds the least extra safety beyond existing controls