Limba Eng EM II s1

Maritime University of Constanta
Faculty Electromechanics
Specialisation Electromechanics
2-nd year
1-st semester
Students Coursebook
1
Maritime English
Contents
UNIT 1. SMCP
Objectives of Unit 1
1.1
Basic communication features
1.2
Spelling of letters, digits and numbers
1.3
Message markers
1.4
Distress, urgency and safety messages
1.5
Present perfect and Past Tense
Self-assessment test
Progress test
Answers to self-assessment test
References
UNIT 2. GLOSSARY
2.1
General and VTS terms
2.2
Simple Past Past Progressive
Progress test
References
UNIT 3. EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION PHRASES
3.1
Report critical situations
3.2
Standard distress, urgency and safety messages
3.3
Verbs + gerund/infinitive
Progress test
References
UNIT 4. ONBOARD COMMUNICATION
4.1
Fire protection and fire fighting
4.2
Fire-fighting and drills
4.3
Damage control
4.4
Phrases for giving orders, advice and warnings
Progress test
References
UNIT 5. FIRE-FIGHTING
5.1
Fire on board
5.2
Engine room fire-fighting equipment
5.3
Idioms
Progress test
Page
4
5
5
6
7
7
7
9
9
9
10
11
12
12
16
19
19
20
20
21
22
22
23
24
27
28
28
29
30
31
31
32
34
36
39
40
40
40
41
42
42
43
44
46
47
48
2
Maritime English
References
UNIT 6. SPECIAL EVENTS
6.1
Briefing on operation of main engine and auxiliary equipment
6.2
Briefing on welding on board
Progress test
References
UNIT 7. FUNCTION OF AUXILIARY MACHINERY
7.1
Auxiliary machnery
7.2
Change of state verbs
7.3
Comparisons
Progress test
References
UNIT 8. SAFETY ON BOARD
8.1
Briefing crew and passengers
8.2
Ordering evacuation
8.3
Lifesaving equipment on ships
Progress test
References
UNIT 9. MAN OVERBOARD
9.1
Prevention
9.2
What to do if you see someone fall overboard
9.3
What to do if you fall overboard yourself
Progress test
References
48
49
50
50
51
52
53
53
54
55
56
56
57
58
59
60
60
60
61
62
62
63
64
65
66
66
66
67
68
68
69
69
70
70
71
71
3
Maritime English
Unit 1
SMCP
1.1
Basic communicative features
1.2
1.3
Message markers
1.4
Distress, urgency and safety messages
1.5
Present Perfect and Past Tense
Progress test
References
4
Maritime English
OBJECTIVES OF UNIT 1
The main objectives are:
demonstrate an understanding of a standardized language;

explain the situation which requires a specific message marker
names the main characteristics o the SMCP
select the appropriate type of message
1.1
Basic communicative features
As navigational and safety communications from ship to shore and vice versa, from ship to ship, and
on board ship must be precise, simple and unambiguous so as to avoid confusion and error, there is a
need to standardize the language used. This is of particular importance in the light of the increasing
number of internationally trading vessels with crews speaking many different languages, since
problems of communication may cause misunderstandings leading to dangers to the vessel, the people
on board and the environment.
The IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) has been compiled:
to assist in the greater safety of navigation and of the conduct of the ship,
to standardize the language used in communication for navigation at sea, in port
approaches, waterways and harbours, and on board vessels with multilingual crews, and
to assist maritime training institutions in meeting the objectives mentioned above.
These phrases are not intended to supplant or contradict the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea, 1972 or special local rules or recommendations made by IMO concerning ships'
routeing, neither are they intended to supersede the International Code of Signals, and their use in
ships external communications has to be in strict compliance with the relevant radiotelephone
procedures as set out in the ITU Radio Regulations. Furthermore, the IMO SMCP, as a collection of
individual phrases, should not be regarded as any kind of technical manual providing operational
instructions.
The IMO SMCP meets the requirements of the STCW Convention, 1978, as revised, and of the
SOLAS Convention, 1974, as revised, regarding verbal communications; moreover, the phrases cover
the relevant communication safety aspects laid down in these Conventions.
Use of the IMO SMCP should be made as often as possible in preference to other wording of similar
meaning; as a minimum requirement, users should adhere as closely as possible to them in relevant
situations. In this way they are intended to become an acceptable safety language, using English for the
5
Maritime English
verbal interchange of intelligence among individuals of all maritime nations on the many and varied
occasions when precise meanings and translations are in doubt, as is increasingly evident under
modern conditions at sea.
1.2
When spelling is necessary, only the following spelling table should be used:
Letter
Code
Letter
Code
Alfa
November
Bravo
Oscar
Charlie
Papa
Delta
Quebec
Echo
Romeo
Foxtrot
Sierra
Golf
Tango
Hotel
Uniform
India
Victor
Juliet
Whisky
Kilo
X-ray
Lima
Yankee
Mike
Zulu
Spelling of digits and numbers

A few digits and numbers have a modified pronunciation compared to general English:
Number
Spelling
Pronunciation
0
1
zero
one
ZEERO
two
3
4
5
three
four
five
TREE
FOWER
6
7
8
9
1000
six
seven
eight
nine
thousand
SIX
SEVEN
AIT
NINER
TOUSAND
WUN
TOO
FIFE
6
Maritime English
1.3
Message markers
In shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication or radio communication in general, the following eight
Message Markers may be used :
1.4
(i)
Instruction
(ii)
Advice
(iii)
Warning
(iv)
Information
(v)
Question
(vi)
Answer
(vii)
Request
(viii)
Intention
Distress, urgency and safety signals
MAYDAY
to be used to announce a distress message
PAN PAN
to be used to announce an urgency message
SECURIT
to be used to announce a safety message
1.5
Present Perfect and Past Tense
Use
In British English, the use of Simple Past and Present Perfect is quite strict. As soon as a time
expression in the past is given, you have to use Simple Past. If there are no signal words, you must
decide if we just talk about an action in the past or if its consequence in the present is important.
Note that the following explanations and exercises refer to British English only. In American English,
you can normally use Simple Past instead of Present Perfect.
Certain time in the past or just / already / yet?

Do you want to express that an action happened at a certain time in the past (even if it was just a few
seconds ago) or that an action has just / already / not yet happened?
7
Maritime English
Simple Past
Present Perfect Simple
certain time in the past
just / already / not yet
Example:
I phoned Mary 2 minutes ago.
Example:
I have just phoned Mary.
Certain event in the past or how often so far?

Do you want to express when a certain action took place or whether / how often an action has
happened till now?
Simple Past

whether / how often till now
certain event in the past
Example:
Have you ever been to Canada? / I have
been to Canada twice.
Example:
He went to Canada last summer.
Emphasis on action or result?

Do you just want to express what happened in the past? Or do you want to emphasise the result (a past
action's consequence in the present)?
Simple Past
Emphasis on action
Emphasis on result
Example:
I bought a new bike. (just telling what I did in
the past.)
Example:
I have bought a new bike. ( I have a new
bike now.)
Signal Words
Simple Past
yesterday
... ago
in 1990
the other day
last ...
just
already
up to now / until now / till now
ever
(not) yet
so far
lately / recently
8
Maritime English
Self-assessment Test
Put the verbs into the correct tense (simple past or present
perfect simple).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
We (sail / just) 50 miles.

They (sail) 100 km last week.
I (paint) the main deck yesterday.
I (paint / already) two decks this month.
I (ring / just) my friend.
I (ring) my friend 10 minutes ago.
Two days ago, I (watch) a MJ concert on TV.
I (see / never) a heavy-lift vessel.
I (spend) my summer holiday in Spain last year.
10. I (be / not) to Spain yet.
Progress test
Write the verbs in the correct tense (Simple Past or Present Perfect).
1.
2.
3.
4.
My friend (be) ... to Edinburgh three times.

Some years ago he (study) ... English there.
Last month he (visit) ... some friends in Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, I (can / not) .. go to Edinburgh with him.
5. This is a pity. They are my friends, too, and I (see / not) ... them for
ages.

Put the verbs into the correct tense (simple past or present perfect simple).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
We have just sailed 50 miles.

They sailed 100 km last week.
I painted the main deck yesterday.
I have already painted two decks this month.
I have just rung my friend.
I rang my friend 10 minutes ago.
Two days ago, I watched a MJ concert on TV.
I have never seen a heavy-lift vessel.
I spent my summer holiday in Spain last year.
10. I havent been to Spain yet.
9
Maritime English
Extra test
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland. It has a beautiful old city centre and a
castle that lies on a hill above the city.
Several famous people were born in Edinburgh, for example:

1. The one who invented the telephone. (3 words)
2. A former Prime Minister (T_ _ _ B_ _ _ _)
3. The author of the Sherlock Holmes stories. (3 words)
Alexander Graham Bell
Tony Blair
Arthur Conan Doyle
References
1. *** IMO STANDARD MARINE COMMUNICATION PHRASES.
Resolution A. 918 (22). Adopted on 29 November 2001;
2. Georgescu, M., Outboard Communication, (2010), ISBN 978-6068105-13-0, Nautica Press, Constana;
3. Murphy, R. Essential Grammar In Use. 1st ed. Cambridge,
Cambridge University Press, 1990 (ISBN 0 521 35770 5)
4. http://www.ego4u.com/en/cram-up/grammar/simpas-preper
10
Maritime English
Unit 2
GLOSSSARY
2.1
2.2
Progress test
References
11
Maritime English
identify general maritime words

define different words
give meanings to plurisemantic words and phrases
understand acronyms
2.1

General terms
Accommodation ladder
Ladder attached to platform at vessel's side with flat steps and handrails enabling
persons to embark / disembark from water or shore
Assembly station
Place on deck, in mess rooms, etc., assigned to crew and passengers where they
have to meet according to the muster list when the corresponding alarm is released
or announcement made
Berth
.1 A sea room to be kept for safety around a vessel, rock, platform, etc.
.2 The place assigned to a vessel when anchored or lying alongside a pier, etc.
Blast
A whistle signal made by the vessel
Bob-cat
A mini-caterpillar with push-blade used for the careful distribution of loose goods in
cargo holds of bulk carriers
Briefing
Concise explanatory information to crew and/or passengers
Cable
.1 Chain connecting a vessel to the anchor(s)

.2 Wire or rope primarily used for mooring a ship
.3 (Measurement) one hundred fathoms or one tenth of a nautical mile
Casualty
Here: case of death in an accident or shipping disaster
Check (to)
.1 To make sure that equipment etc. is in proper condition or that everything is

correct and safe
.2 To regulate motion of a cable, rope or wire when it is running out too fast
COW
Crude Oil Washing: a system of cleaning the cargo tanks by washing them with the
cargo of crude oil during discharge
12
Maritime English
Crash-stop
An emergency reversal operation of the main engine(s) to avoid a collision
Damage control team
A group of crew members trained for fighting flooding in the vessel
Derelict
Vessel still afloat, abandoned at sea
Disabled
A vessel damaged or impaired in such a manner as to be incapable of proceeding

on its voyage
Disembark (to)
To go from a vessel
Distress alert (GMDSS)
A radio signal from a distressed vessel automatically directed to an MRCC giving

position, identification, course and speed of the vessel as well as the nature of
distress
Distress/Urgency
Here: the verbal exchange of information on radio from ship to shore
traffic
and/or ship to ship / aircraft about a distress / urgency situation as defined in the
relevant ITU Radio Regulations
Draft
Depth in water at which a vessel floats
Drop back (to)
To increase the distance from the vessel ahead by reducing one's own speed
DSC
Digital Selective Calling (in the GMDSS system)
Embark (to)
To go aboard a vessel
EPIRB
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
Escape route
A clearly marked way in the vessel which has to be followed in case of an

emergency
ETA
Estimated Time of Arrival
ETD
Estimated Time of Departure
Fathom
A measure of 6 feet
Fire patrol
A member of the watch going around the vessel at certain intervals so that an
outbreak of fire may be promptly detected; mandatory in vessels carrying more
than 36 passengers
Flooding
Major uncontrolled flow of seawater into the vessel
Fire monitor
Fixed foam/powder/water cannon shooting fire - extinguishing agents on tank deck,

manifold etc.
Fumes
Often harmful gas produced by fires, chemicals, fuel, etc.
General emergency alarm
A sound signal of seven short blasts and one prolonged blast given with the vessel
s sound system
Give way
To keep out of the way of another vessel
GMDSS
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
(D) GPS
(Differential) Global (satellite) Positioning System
13
Maritime English
Hatchrails
Ropes supported by stanchions around an open hatch to prevent persons from

falling into a hold
Inert (to)
To reduce the oxygen in a tank by inert gas to avoid an explosive atmosphere
Jettison (to) (of cargo)
To throw goods overboard in order to lighten the vessel or improve its stability in
case of an emergency
Launch (to)
To lower, e.g. lifeboats, to the water
Leaking
Escape of liquids such as water, oil, etc., out of pipes, boilers, tanks, etc., or a minor
inflow of seawater into the vessel due to damage to the hull
Leeward
On or towards the sheltered side of a ship; opposite of windward
Leeway
Vessels sideways drift leeward of the desired course
Let go (to)
To set free, let loose, or cast off (of anchors, lines, etc.)
Lifeboat station
Place assigned to crew and passengers to muster before being ordered into the
lifeboats
List
Here: inclination of the vessel to port side or starboard side
Located
In navigational warnings: Position of object confirmed
Make water (to)
To have seawater flowing into the vessel due to hull damage, or hatches awash
and not properly closed
MMSI
Maritime Mobile Service Identity number
Moor (to)
To secure a vessel in a particular place by means of wires or ropes made fast to

the shore, to anchors, or to anchored mooring buoys, or to ride with both anchors
down
MRCC
Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre: land-based authority responsible for

promoting efficient organization of maritime search and rescue and for co-ordinating
the conduct of search and rescue operations within a search and rescue region
Muster (to)
To assemble crew, passengers or both in a special place for purposes of checking
Muster list
List of crew, passengers and others on board and their functions in a distress or drill
Oil clearance
Oil skimming from the surface of the water
Operational
Ready for immediate use
OSC
On-Scene Co-ordinator: A person designed to co-ordinate search and rescue

operations within a specified area
Overflow
Escape of oil or liquid from a tank because of a twofold condition as a result of

overflowing, thermal expansion, change in vessel trim or vessel movement
Polluter
A vessel emitting harmful substances into the air or spilling oil into the sea
14
Maritime English
Preventers
Ropes or wires attached to derricks to prevent them from swinging during cargo
handling operations
Proceed (to)
To sail or head for a certain position or to continue with the voyage
PA-system
Public address system: loudspeakers in the vessel's cabins, mess rooms, etc., and
on deck through which important information can be broadcast from a central point,
mostly from the navigation bridge
Recover (to)
Here: to pick up shipwrecked persons
Retreat signal
Sound, visual or other signal to a team ordering it to return to its base
Roll call
The act of checking how many passengers and crew members are present, e.g. at
assembly stations, by reading aloud a list of their names
Safe speed
That speed of a vessel allowing time for effective action to be taken under
prevailing circumstances and conditions to avoid a collision and to be stopped
within an appropriate distance
SWL
that
Safe working load: maximum working load of lifting equipment

should not be exceeded
Safe working pressure
The maximum permissible pressure in cargo hoses
SAR
Search and Rescue
SART
Search and Rescue Transponder
Slings
Ropes, nets, and any other means for handling general cargoes
Spill control gear
Anti-pollution equipment for combating accidental spills of oils or

chemicals
Standing orders
Orders of the Master to the officer of the watch which he/she must
comply with
Station
The allotted place or the duties of each person on board
Stripping
Final pumping of tanks residues
Tension winch
A winch which applies tension to mooring lines to keep them tight
TEU
Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit (standard container dimension)
Union purchase
A method of cargo handling by combining two derricks, one of which is fixed over
the hatch, the other over the ships side
Unlit
When the light of a buoy or a lighthouse are inoperative
UTC hours
Universal Time Co-ordinated (GMT)
VHF
Very High Frequency (30-300 MHz)
Wreck
A vessel which has been destroyed, sunk or abandoned at sea
15
Maritime English
VTS special terms

Manoeuvring speed
A vessels reduced speed in circumstances where it may be required to use

the engines at short notice
VTS
Vessel Traffic Services: services designed to improve the safety and

efficiency of vessel traffic and to protect the environment
2.2
Exceptions when adding 'ed' :
when the final letter is e, only add d.

Example: love - loved
after a short, stressed vowel, the final consonant is doubled

Example: admit - admitted
final l is always doubled in British English (not in American English)

Example: travel - travelled
after a consonant, final y becomes i. (but: not after a vowel)

Example: worry - he worried
but: play - he played
Exceptions when adding 'ing' :
silent e is dropped (but: does not apply for -ee)

Example: come - coming
but: agree - agreeing
after a short, stressed vowel, the final consonant is doubled

Example: sit - sitting
final l is always doubled in British English (not in American English)

Example: travel - travelling
final ie becomes y.
Example: lie - lying
16
Maritime English
Use
After another or at the same time?
Do you want to express that the actions in the past happened one after another or at the same time?
Simple Past
Past Progressive
after another
at the same time
She came home, switched on the computer and

checked her e-mails.
Simon was playing on the computer while his

brother was watching TV.
New action or already in progress?

If you want to express that a new action happened in the middle of another action, you need both
tenses: Simple Past the new action and Past Progressive for the action already in progress.
Simple Past
Past Progressive
action already in progress
new action
My mobile rang (when I was sitting in a meeting.)
While I was sitting in a meeting, (my mobile

suddenly rang.)
Only mentioning or emphasising progress?

Do you just want to mention that an action took place in the past (also used for short actions)? Or do
you want to put emphasis on the progress, e.g. that an action was taking place at a certain time?
Simple Past
just mentioning
Colin played football yesterday.
Past Progressive
emphasising progress
Yesterday at six o'clock, Colin was playing
football.
Certain Verbs
The following verbs are usually only used in Simple Past (not in the progressive form).
state: be, cost, fit, mean, suit
Example: We were on holiday.
possession: belong, have
17
Maritime English
Example: Sam had a German car.
senses: feel, hear, see, smell, taste, touch
Example: He felt the cold.
feelings: hate, hope, like, love, prefer, regret, want, wish
Example: Jane loved pizza.
brain work: believe, know, think, understand
Example: I did not understand him.
introductory clauses for direct speech: answer, ask, reply, say
Example: I am watching TV, he said.
Signal words
Simple Past
Past Progressive
first
then
when
while
If-type II (If I talked, )
as long as
Exercises
Exercise 1
Put the verbs into the correct tense (Simple Past or Past Progressive).
1. The receptionist (welcome) the guests and (ask) them to fill in a form.
2. The car (break down) and we (have) to walk home.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
My father (come) in, (look) around and (tell) me to tidy up my room.

Marvin (come) in, (switch) on the computer and (check) his emails.
While we (do) a sight-seeing tour, our friends (lie) on the beach.
The thief (sneak) into the house, (steal) the jewels and (leave) without a trace.
We (wait) for Jane, when suddenly Louis (come)around the corner.
I (cycle) through the park, when I (hear)a strange noise.
18
Maritime English
1. I (fall) asleep while I (watch) TV last night.
2. When the sailors (paint) the deck, the bosun (knock) over the paint pot.
3. Tom (break) his legs when he (fall) into a hold.
4. He (pass) the chief engineer a message when the captain (look / not).
5. I (jog) in the park, when two squirrels (cross) my way.
6. Archimedes (discover) the theory of buoyancy while he (take) a bath.
7. When we (travel) around Ireland, we (meet) some very nice people.
8. When we (leave) the port this morning, the sun (shine).
Progress test
Two days ago, a murder (happen)in the oil terminal. Yesterday,
Sherlock Holmes (arrive)at the crime scene to investigate. He (ask)
one of the stevedores.
What (do / you) yesterday at seven?
(be)you alone?
hear / you anything suspicious?
Exercise 2. Give the right answer
1. Assembly station is a
A) place assigned to officers; B) place where smaller pieces are put
together; C) place assigned to passengers that will leave the ship; D)
place where crew and passengers have to meet;
2. Traffic clearance is
A) authorization for a vessel to proceed; B) very little traffic;
C) traffic in congested waters; D) foggy weather;
3. Veer out means
A) to drop the anchor chain; B) to pick the anchor up; C) to let out a
greater length of cable; D) none of them;

1. I fell asleep while I was watching TV last night.
2. When the sailors were painting the deck, the bosun knocked over the paint pot.
3. Tom broke his legs when he fell into a hold.
4. He passed the chief engineer a message when the captain was not looking.
5. I was jogging in the park, when two squirrels crossed my way.
6. Archimedes discovered the theory of buoyancy while he was taking a bath.
7. When we traveled around Ireland, we met some very nice people.
8. When we left the port this morning, the sun was shining.
19
Maritime English
References
1. *** IMO STANDARD MARINE COMMUNICATION PHRASES. Resolution
A. 918 (22). Adopted on 29 November 2001;
3. Murphy, R. Essential Grammar In Use. 1st ed. Cambridge, Cambridge
University Press, 1990 (ISBN 0 521 35770 5)
4. http://www.ego4u.com/en/cram-up/grammar/simpas-paspro/exercises?ex05
20
Maritime English
Unit 3
External Communication Phrases
3.1
3.2
Standard distress/urgency/safety messages
3.3
Progress test
References
21
Maritime English
Use vocabulary connected to crises on board
selects either the gerund or the infinitive form correctly when one verb
follows another find the proper phrases for giving opinions
use SMCP for simulated external communications
3.1
Fire, explosion
.1
.2
.2.1
.3
.3.1
.3.2
.4
.4.1
.5
.6
.6.1
.6.2
.7
.7.1
.7.2
.8
.8.1
Flooding
.1
.2
.3
.3.1
.3.2
.3.3
.4
.5
.6
.7
.8
I am/MV ... on fire (- after explosion).

Where is the fire?
Fire is on deck/in engine-room/ hold(s)/ superstructure/accommodation
Are dangerous goods on fire?
Yes, dangerous goods are on fire.
No, dangerous goods are not on fire.
Is there danger of explosion?
Yes,/No danger of explosion.
I am / MV ... not under command.
Is the fire under control?
Yes, fire is under control.
No, fire is not under control.
What kind of assistance is required?
I do not / MV ... does not require assistance.
I require / MV ... requires fire fighting assistance.
~ breathing apparatus - smoke is toxic.
~ foam /CO2 extinguishers.
~ fire pumps.
~ medical assistance/... .
Report injured persons.
No persons injured /Number of injured persons/casualties: ... .
I am/MV ... is flooding below water line/in the engine room/in the hold(s).
I/MV ... cannot control flooding.
I require/MV ... requires pumps/divers, ... .
I will send pumps/divers/... .
I cannot send pumps/divers ... .
I have/MV ... has dangerous list to port side/starboard.
I am/MV ... in critical condition.
Flooding is under control.
I /MV ... can proceed without assistance.
I require/ MV ... requires escort/tug assistance/... .
Technical failure
22
Maritime English
.1
I am / MV ... not under command.
.2
What problems do you have / does MV ... have?
. 2.1
I have / MV ... has problems with engine(s) / steering gear /
propeller / ... .
.3
I am / MV ...is manoeuvring with difficulty.
.4
Keep clear of me / MV ... .
.5
Navigate with caution.
.6
I require / MV ... requires tug assistance / escort / ... .
.7
I try / MV ... tries to proceed without assistance.
.8
Stand by on VHF Channel ... / frequency ... .
.8.1
Standing by on VHF Channel ... / frequency ... .
Environmental protection communications
.1
Located oil spill in position (cardinal points/half cardinal points) extending ...
(length and width in metres) to ... (cardinal points/half cardinal points).
.2
Located oil spill in your wake/in the wake of MV ... .
.3
I have / MV ... has accidental spillage of oil / ... .
.4
Can you / MV ... stop spillage?
.4.1
Yes, I / MV ... can stop spillage.
.4.2
No, I / MV ... cannot stop spillage.
.5
.5.1
I require / MV ... requires oil clearance assistance.
~ floating booms / oil dispersants / ... .
.5
Stay in vicinity of pollution and co-operate with oil clearance team.
.6
... (number) barrels / drums / containers with IMDG Code marks reported
adrift
near position..... .
.7
Located a vessel dumping chemicals / waste / ... in position ... .
.7.1
Located a vessel incinerating chemicals / waste / ... in position ... .
.8
Can you identify the polluter?
.8.1
Yes, I can identify the polluter - polluter is MV ... .
.8.2
No, I cannot identify the polluter.
.9
What is course and speed of the polluter?
.9.1
Course of the polluter ... degrees, speed ... knots.
.9.2
The polluter left the scene.
3.2
Standard distress/urgency/safety messages
Standard distress message

MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY
- THIS IS TWO-ONE-ONE-TWO-THREE-NINE-SIX-EIGHT-ZERO
MOTOR VESSEL "BIRTE" CALL SIGN DELTA ALPHA MIKE KILO
- POSITION SIX TWO DEGREES ONE ONE DECIMAL EIGHT MINUTES NORTH
- ZERO ZERO SEVEN DEGREES FOUR FOUR MINUTES EAST
- I AM ON FIRE AFTER EXPLOSION
- I REQUIRE FIRE FIGHTING ASSISTANCE
- SMOKE NOT TOXIC
OVER
Standard urgency message
PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN PAN
ALL STATIONS ALL STATIONS ALL STATIONS
23
Maritime English
MOTORVESSEL "BIRTE" CALL SIGN DELTA ALPHA MIKE KILO

- POSITION SIX TWO DEGREES ONE ONE DECIMAL EIGHT MINUTES NORTH
ZERO ZERO SEVEN DEGREES FOUR FOUR MINUTES EAST
- I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH ENGINES
- I REQUIRE TUG ASSISTANCE
OUT
Standard safety message
SCURIT SCURIT SCURIT
ALL SHIPS ALL SHIPS ALL SHIPS IN AREA PETER REEF
MOTORVESSEL "BIRTE" CALL SIGN DELTA ALPHA MIKE KILO
- DANGEROUS WRECK LOCATED IN POSITION TWO NAUTICAL MILES
SOUTH OF PETER REEF
OVER
3.3
Some verbs are followed by a to-infinitive but not -ing: agree, aim, ask, decline, demand,
fail, hesitate, hope, hurry, manage, offer, plan, prepare, refuse, want, wish.
Some verbs are followed by -ing but not a to-infinitive: admit, avoid, consider, delay, deny,
detest, dread, envisage, feel like, finish, imagine, miss, recall, resent, risk, suggest.
The verbs begin, cease, start, and continue can be followed by either a to-infinitive or an ing
form with little difference in meaning:
Even though it was raining, they continued to play / playing.
However, with these verbs we normally avoid using two -ing forms together, as a repeated
pattern can sound awkward:
I'm starting to learn celestial navigation. (rather than I'm starting learning ....)
The verbs advise and encourage are followed by -ing when there is no object and to-infinitive when
there is one. Compare:
I'd advise taking more exercise. and I'd advise you to take more exercise.
Other verbs can be followed by either a to-infinitive or an -ing form, but there can be a
difference in meaning. These include come, go on, mean, regret, remember, stop, try.
come
go on
mean
regret
+ to inf
to talk about a gradual change
After some years, they came to
accept her as an equal.
to mean that something is done
after something else is finished
After the interval, Pavarotti went
on to sing an aria from Tosca.
to say that we intend(ed) to do
something
I meant to phone you last week.
+ -ing
to say that someone moves in the way
that is described
He came hurrying up the path.
to say that someone moves in the way
that is described
Although she asked him to stop, he
went on tapping his pen on the table.
to say that something has something
else as a result
If we want to get there by 7.00, that
means getting up before 5.00.
to say that we are about to do

something we are not happy about
I regret to inform you that your
application has been unsuccessful.
to say we have already done something

that we are not happy about
It's too late now, but I'll always regret
asking John to do the work.
24
Maritime English
remember
stop
try
to mean that remembering comes

before the action described
Remember to take your hat when
you go out. (first remember, and
then take it)
to say why we stop doing
something
She stopped to make a cup of tea.
to say that we attempt to do
something
I tried to get the table through the
door, but it was too big.
to mean the action comes before

remembering
I remember going to the bank, but
nothing after that. (I remember that I
went there)
to say what it is that we stop doing
They stopped laughing when
Malcolm walked into the room.
to say we test something to see if it
improves a situation
I tried taking some aspirin, but the
pain didn't go away.
Verb+-ing
Some verbs must have an object before an -ing form:
The police found the man climbing the wall.
She overheard them talking about the closure of the factory.
Other verbs like this include catch, discover, feel, hear, leave, notice, observe, see, spot,
watch
Notice, however, that this is not the case when these verbs are in the passive:
The man was found climbing the wall.
D Some verbs can have an object or no object before an -ing form:
They can't stand (him) driving his old car.
I remember (you) buying that jumper.
Other verbs like this include detest, dislike, dread, envisage, hate, imagine, like, love,
mind (in questions and negatives), miss, recall, regret, resent, risk, start, stop;
Some verbs can't have an object before an -ing form:
Despite his injury he continued playing.
I actually enjoy cleaning shoes. It's relaxing!
Other verbs like this include admit, advise, consider, delay, deny, deserve, escape, face,
finish, forget, propose, put off, suggest
Some of the verbs in and (admit, deny, forget, recall, regret, remember) can be followed by
having + past participle instead of the -ing form, with little difference in meaning:
He remembered having arrived at the party, but not leaving, (or He remembered arriving...)
I now regret having bought the car. (or I now regret buying...)
These pairs of sentences have the same meaning:
I resented Tom winning the prize. and I resented Tom's winning the prize.
Mary recalled him borrowing the book, and Mary recalled his borrowing the book.
Other verbs that can be followed by an object with a possessive and then an -ing form include
verbs of '(dis)liking' such as detest, disapprove of, dislike, hate, like, love, object to, and verbs of
'thinking' such as envisage, forget, imagine, remember, think of. Notice that we can only use a
possessive form (Tom's, his) like this to talk about a person or a group of people:
I remembered the horse winning the race, (but not ...the horse's winning...)
The possessive form in this pattern is usually considered to be rather formal.
A few verbs (feel, hear, notice, observe, overhear, see, watch) can be followed either by an -ing
form or a bare infinitive, but the meaning may be slightly different:
an -ing form suggests that the action is repeated or happens over a period of time.
Did you hear those dogs barking most of the night?
suggests that we watch, etc. some of the action, but not from start to finish
25
Maritime English
I was able to watch them building the new car park from my office window.
a bare infinitive suggests that the action happens only once
I noticed him throw a sweet wrapper on the floor, so I asked him to pick it up.
suggests that we watch, hear, etc. the whole action from its start to its finish
I watched him climb through the window, and then I called the police.
These verbs can be followed by either an infinitive or a gerund, with NO DIFFERENCE IN MEANING.
He began to shout.
He started to shout.
He continued to shout.
I like to read.
I love to read.
I prefer to read.
I hate to wait.
I can't stand to wait.
I can't bear to wait.
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
He began shouting.
He started shouting.
He continued shouting.
I like reading.
I love reading.
I prefer reading.
I hate waiting.
I can't stand waiting.
I can't bear waiting.
Some verbs can be followed by either an infinitive or a gerund, but THEIR MEANINGS ARE NOT THE SAME:
I will remember to call her.
(I will be sure to call her in the future.)
I remember calling her.

(I have the memory of calling her in the past.)
I will not forget to meet him.

(I will be sure to meet him in the
future.)
I will never forget meeting them.

(I will not lose the memory of meeting them.)
I regret to say he is not here.

(I am sorry I must tell you he is not
here.)
I regret saying it.

(I am sorry I said it.)
I will try to ring the bell.

(I will see if it is possible to ring the
bell.)
I will try ringing the bell.

(I will ring the bell to see if it will help the situation.)
I stopped smoking a year ago.

(I ended my cigarette habit.)
I stopped to smoke at 10 oclock

(I interrupted an activity and had a
cigarette.)
Exercises
Complete these sentences with either a to-infinitive or an -ing form. Choose an appropriate verb.
Sometimes more than one verb is possible.
admire buy check enjoy introduce live notify put race
say smoke spend talk tell tear turn down
a Although it was hard at first, she came to enjoy working for the airline.
b As I walked through the gate, the dog came ... towards me.
After working with her for so long, I came ... her patience and efficiency.
26
Maritime English
d Yesterday, Tom was so late he came downstairs, grabbed a cup of coffee and left.
a The children were shouting and screaming, but he went on to Frank.
b We've tried to persuade her to stop, but she just goes on
Dr Harris welcomed the members of the committee and went on the subject of the meeting,
d Then, in her letter, she goes on that most of her family have been ill.
a I regret you that the model you want is out of stock.
b We regret you that your request for a tax refund has been rejected.
Almost as soon as I had posted the letter, I regretted the job.
d It cost me a fortune, but I don't regret a year travelling around the world.
a Bill was very young when they left, and he could no longer remember in the house.
b Did you remember a newspaper on the way home?
Remember your answers before handing in your exam paper.
d I remember the money in the top drawer, but it's not there now.
Complete these sentences in any appropriate way using either the toinfinitive or the -ing form of the verb in brackets.
I admit ... the combination to the safe. (lose)
I advise ... a good lawyer. (find)
I don't anticipate ... very much longer. (wait)
I appreciate ... a good joke. (hear)
I avoid ... as much as I can. (fly)
Would you consider ... your share of the company? (sell)
We will delay ... an agreement. (sign)
I deny ... that. (say)
We hope ... by next week. (begin)
I intend ... home early. (go)
He learned ... English as a child. (speak)
You managed ... something. (overlook)
Did you mean ... my report in the waste basket? (put)
I need ... to an expert. (talk)
Progress test 1
Complete these sentences using either the to-infinitive or the -ing form of the
verb in brackets. If both forms are possible, give them both. (A & B)
1 Passing the kitchen, he stopped to drink a large
(drink)
glass of water.
2 When the car broke down, she started...
(push)
3 Here's the money I owe you. I meant... to you a
(give)
month ago, but something came up.
27
Maritime English
4 To lose weight, I'd advise you... on fat meat.

5 I found that my back stopped... when...
6 To help me get to sleep, I tried... of his boring
jokes.
7 The orchestra was just beginning... when
8 Please don't hesitate ...
(cut out)
(ache)
(think)
9 When he found that he couldn't walk, he began...

10 The handle came off when I tried...
11 You could see the doctor today but as you haven't
got an appointment it would mean...
(shout)
(lift)
(wait)
(play)
(call)
Progress test 2
Make a dialogue between two WOs (A and B) by arranging the following
questions and answers:
What problems do you have have?
Stand by on VHF Channel 9.
I have problems with engine.
I am not under command.
Do you require any assisstance?
I require tug assistance.
Standing by on VHF Channel 9 .
I am manoeuvring with difficulty.

I admit losing the combination to the safe.
I advise finding a good lawyer.
I don't anticipate waiting very much longer.
I appreciate hearing a good joke.
I avoid flying as much as I can.
Would you consider selling your share of the company?
We will delay signing an agreement.
I deny saying that.
We hope to begin by next week.
I intend to go home early.
He learned to speak English as a child.
You managed to overlook something.
Did you mean to put my report in the waste basket?
I need to talk to an expert.
References
3.http://www.sonnerct.com/English_Rules/LR10_Gerunds_Infinitives.htm
28
Maritime English
Unit 4
29
Maritime English
Onboard Communication
4.1
Fireprotection and fire-fighting
4.2
4.3
Damage control
4.4
Progress test
References
30
Maritime English
use SMCP for simulated onboard communications
give warnings and advice concerning safe working practice on board
use appropriate phrases with correct grammar construction to simulate
giving orders, advice and warnings regarding safe practice at sea
4.1
Fireprotection and fire-fighting

1. Checking status of equipment
2. .1
Have fire patrols.
3. .1 .5
Have fire patrols in all spaces/areas / engine room/ cargo hold(s) /
superstructure / accommodation.
4. .2
Everything in order?
5. .3
Check fire/smoke alarms and report.
6. .3 .1
Fire/smoke alarms operational.
7. .3 .2
Fire/smoke alarm(s) in ... not operational (yet).
8. .4
Switch on/off fire/smoke alarms.
9. .5
Check fire alarm/smoke alarm displays on bridge and report.
10..6
Check portable extinguishers and report.
11..6 .1
Portable extinguishers in position and operational.
12..6 .4 .1
Replace missing portable extinguisher(s).
13..6 .5
Seal(s) of portable extinguisher(s) in ... broken.
14..7
Check fire mains and report.
15..7 .1
Fire mains operational.
16..7 .2
Hydrant(s) in ... not operational (yet)..
17..7 .4
Hose(s) to hydrant(s) in ... worn/cut.
18..7 .4 .1
Replace worn/cut hose(s).
19..7 .5
Hose(s) to hydrant(s) in ... missing.
20..7 .7
Nozzle(s) to ... not operational (yet).
21..7 .9 .1
Replace missing nozzle(s).
22..7 .11
Water pipe(s) in ... leaking.
23..7 .11 .1
Repair leaking water pipe(s) in ... .
24..7 .12
Water pipe(s) in ... blocked.
25..7 .13
Pressure in water pipe(s) in ... too high.
26..7 .14
Pressure in water pipe(s) in ... too low.
27..8
Check fixed foam/gas fire extinguishing system and report.
28..8 .2 .1
Fixed foam/gas system operational in ... minutes.
29..9
Check sprinkler system and report.
30..9 .1
Sprinkler system operational.
31..9 .2
Sprinkler system in ... not operational (yet).
32..9 .2 .1
Sprinkler system in ... operational in ... minutes.
33..10
Check ventilation system and report.
34..10 .1 Ventilation system operational.
31
Maritime English
35..10 .2 Ventilation system not operational (yet)

36..10 .2 .1
Ventilation system operational in ... minutes.
37..10 .3 Remote control not operational (yet).
38..10 .3 .1
Remote control operational in ... minutes.
39..10 .4 Indicators not operational (yet).
40..10 .4 .1
Indicators operational in ... minutes.
41..10 .5 Dampers in ... not operational (yet).
42..10 .5 .1
Dampers in ... operational in ... minutes.
43..11
Check skylights/windows/ ... and report.
44..11 .1 Skylights/windows/ ... in/to ... open.
45..11 .2 Close skylights/windows/ ... in/to ... .
46..11 .2 .1
Skylights/windows/ ... in/to ... closed.
47..12
Check watertight door control and report.
48..12 .1 Watertight door control operational.
49..12 .2 Watertight door control in ... not operational (yet).
50..12 .2 .1
Watertight door(s) in ... do(es) not open/close.
51..12 .3 Watertight door control in ... operational in ... minutes.
52..13
Check electrical lighting and report
53..13 .1 Electrical lighting operational.
54..13 .2 Electrical lighting in ... not operational (yet).
55..13 .2 .1
Black-out/short circuit in ... .
56..13 .3 Electrical lighting in ... operational in ... minutes.
57..13 .4 Switch on/off electrical lighting in ... .
58..13 .4 .1
Electrical lighting in ... switched on/off.
59..14
Check emergency power supply and report.
60..14 .1 Emergency power supply operational.
61..14. 2 Emergency power supply not operational (yet).
62..14 .2 .1
Emergency power supply operational in ... minutes.
63..15
Check firemens outfits and report.
64..15 .1 Firemens outfits complete and available.
65..15 .2 Firemens outfits not complete.
66..15 .2 .1
Complete firemens outfits.
67..15 .3 Breathing apparatus/smoke helmets/safety lamps/ ... not
operational/missing.
68..15 .3 .1
Replace (missing) breathing apparatus/smoke helmets/safety
lamps/ ... .
69..15 .4 Test certificate(s) of ... expired.
70..15 .4 .1
Replace ... .
4.2
Reporting fire
.1
Fire on board!
.1 .1 Smoke/fire/explosion in engine room/ no. ... hold(s)/tank(s).
.1 .5 Smoke from ventilator(s).
.1 .6 Burnt smell in .../ from... .
.2
Report injured persons:
.3
What is on fire?
.3 .1 Fuel/ Cargo on fire.
.3 .2 Car(s)/truck(s)/waggon(s) on fire.
.3 .3 Containers/ ... (with dangerous goods) on fire.
.4
Is smoke toxic?
.4 .1 No, smoke not toxic.
32
Maritime English
.4 .2 Yes, smoke toxic.

.5
Is fire under control?
.5 .1 Yes, fire (in ... ) under control.
.5 .2 No, fire (in ... ) not under control (yet).
.5 .2 .1
No, fire spreading (to ... ).
.5 .2 .2
No, fire (in ... ) not accessible.
.6
What is damage?
.6 .1 No damage.
.6 .2 Minor/major damage in .../ to ... .
.6 .3 No power supply (in ... ).
.6 .4 Making water in ... .
.7
Pressure on fire mains.
.7 .1 Fire mains under pressure.
.8
Shut down main engine(s)/auxiliary engine(s)/ ... .
.8 .1 Main engine(s)/auxiliary engine(s)/ ... shut down.
.9
Stop fuel.
.9 .1 Fuel stopped.
.10
Close hatch covers.
.10 .1 Hatch covers closed.
.11
Close damper(s) (in ... ).
.11 .1 Damper(s) (in ... ) closed.
.12
Close all openings.
.12 .1 All openings closed.
.13
Switch off ventilator(s) (in ... ) .
.13 .1 Ventilator(s) (in ... ) switched off.
.14
Turn bow/stern to windward.
.14 .1 Bow/stern turned to windward.
.15
Turn port side/starboard side to windward.
.15 .1 Port side/starboard side turned to windward.
.16
Alter course to ... .
.16 .1 Course altered to ... .
Reporting readiness for action
.1
Stand by fire party/rescue team/first aid team.
.1 .1 Fire party/rescue team/first aid team standing by.
.2
Stand by main engine .
.2 .1 Main engine standing by.
.3
Stand by CO2 station/ ... station/ emergency generator.
.3 1 CO2 station/ ... station/emergency generator standing by.
.4
Close all openings and report.
.4 .1
All openings closed.
.4 .2
Openings in engine room/ hold(s)/tank(s)/ superstructure/accommodation
closed.
.4 .6
Openings in ... space closed.
.4 .7
Openings in ... not accessible.
Orders for fire fighting
.1
Start fire fighting.
.1 .1
Take one/two/ ... fire party(s) to scene.
.1 .2
Take one/two/ ... rescue team(s) to scene.
.2
Go following route:
.2 .1
Go through engine room/ no. ... hold(s)/tank(s)/ superstructure/
accommodation
.2 .2
Go through ... space.
33
Maritime English
.2 .3
Go through manhole(s) to ... space(s).
.2 .4
Go through funnel.
.2 .5
Go through ... .
.2 .6
Go from outside/inside to ... .
.2 .7
Go from port side/starboard side to ... .
.3
Take following (additional) safety measures and report.
.3 .1
Have two/ ... members in one team.
.3 .1 .1
Number of members in fire party/rescue team/ first aid team: ... .
.3 .2
Have lifeline between each other/to outside.
.3 .2 .1
Fire party/... team members have lifelines to each other.
.3 .2 .2
Fire party/... team members have lifelines to outside.
.3 .3
Have rescue team on stand by.
.3 .3 .1
Rescue team standing by.
.3 .4
Maintain visual contact.
.3 .4 .1
Fire party/...team members maintain visual contact with lamps.
.3 .5
Maintain radio contact on VHF channel .
.4
Fire party must have following outfit:
.4 .1
Fire party must have protective clothing/ smoke helmets/ breathing
apparatus
.5
Manning of fire party/... teams is as follows:
.5 .1
Chief Officer/Chief Engineer/ ... in command of fire party (no. ... )/ ... team.
.5 .2
Following officer(s)/crew member(s) in the fire party (no. ... )/ ... team: ...
.6
Restrict action (in .../ on ... ) to ... minutes.
.6 .1
Agree on retreat signal and report.
.6 .1 .1
Retreat signal for fire party/ ... team is ... on telephone/radio.
.6 .1 .2
Visual retreat signal for fire party/ ... team is ...with lamp/hand/ ...
.6 .1 .3
Acoustic retreat signal for fire party/ ... team is ... with signal
whistle/ships whistle/ ... .
.6 .1 .4
Retreat signal for fire party/ ... team is pulling lifeline ... times.
.7
Use the following extinguishing means:
.7 .1
Use water/ foam/ powder/ CO2/gas /sand/ blankets in ...
.8
Fire party (no. ... ) using ... in ... .
.9
Run out fire hoses.
.9 .1
Fire hoses are run out.
.10
Water on.
.10 .1
Water is on.
.10 .2
Water not on.
.11
Cool down boundaries with water and report.
.11 .1
Cool down bulkheads to engine room with water.
4.3
.1
.1.1
.2
.2.1
.2.2
.3
.3.1
.3.2
.4
.4.1
.4.2
Damage control
Close all openings / outlets / valves (in ...) and report.
All openings / outlets / valves (in ...) closed.
Switch on / off power (at / on / in) and report.
Power (at / on / in ...) switched on / off.
Power supply (at / on / in ...) not operational.
Close watertight door(s) (in ...) (by hand) and report.
Watertight door(s) (in ...) closed.
Watertight door(s) (in ...) not accessible / operational.
Switch on (bilge) pump(s) (in ...)and report.
(Bilge) pump(s) (in ...) switched on.
(Bilge) pump(s) (in ...) not operational.
34
Maritime English
.5
Switch over (bilge) pump(s) from ... to ... .
.5.1
(Bilge) pump(s) switched over.
.5.2
Switching over (bilge) pump(s) not possible.
.6
Start damage control.
.8
Take following additional safety measures and report.
.8.1
Have two / ... members in one damage control team.
.8.2
Have lifeline to each other / to outside.
.8.3
Have rescue team on stand by.
.8.4
Maintain visual contact .
.9.1
Damage control team must have protective clothing/ safety helmets/
lifejackets/ diving equipment
Cancellation of alarm
.1
Is flooding stopped?
.2
Is flooding under control ?
.3
Post damage control watches and report.
.3.1
Damage control watches posted (in ...).
.4
How much water is in vessel?
.4.1
Amount of water (in ...) about ... tonnes.
.5
(Bilge) pump(s) remain on stand by.
.5.1
(Bilge) pump(s) standing by.
.6
Engine room remains on stand by.
.6.1
Engine room standing by.
.7
Additional emergency generator remains on stand by.
.8
Damage control team remain on stand by.
.9
Rope - off flooded area.
.10
Check leak every ... minutes / hour(s) and report.
.10.1
Leak checked - no flooding.
.10.2
Leak checked - minor / major flooding (in ...).
Reporting
.1
.1.1
.1.2
pipe(s).
.1.3
.1.4
.2
.2.1
.3
damage
What is damage?
No damage.
Crack(s) in plating/ no. ... double bottom/ no. ... hold(s) / tank(s)/ fuel
Crack(s) in main / auxiliary engine(s) foundation.
Deformation(s) / indentation(s) to plating.
Check flooding and report.
No flooding.
Is danger imminent ?
Exercises
Mayday Mayday Mayday
This is one-two-one-two-three-nine-six-eight-zero, motor vessel Medea, call sign Sierra
India - November - Kilo.
Position: six two degrees one decimal eight minutes north, zero zero seven degrees four
two minutes east.
I am on fire after explosion.
I require fire fighting assistance.
35
Maritime English
Smoke not toxic. Over.
4.4
At one time or another, youll have to give someone instructions for doing something.
Your child, a colleague, a friend or maybe even your boss. The instructions you give could range
anywhere from describing what you would like to have done, to specifying a desired behaviour, to
showing someone how to accomplish something such as changing the display resolution of a computer
monitor.
In English, this can be tricky. Not because the grammar is complex, but rather because simple
instructions that would normally be considered innocuous can sound like insulting commands when
they are not carefully worded and delivered in the correct way.
Two things are certain:
1. If the tone of your instructions is inappropriate for the situation, the results youre looking for
are sure to be elusive.

2. Achieving your goal or helping someone achieve theirs will be difficult if your instructions
are not clear. In this case you may have to repeat your instructions or ask that work be
corrected or even redone from scratch.
Below are a few guidelines that will help you deliver effective instructions using the proper tone.
The grammar behind instructions
The imperative form is used to give orders, warnings, instructions and advice:
Be quiet!
Take care of that.
Careful
Listen to me carefully!
Push the button on the lower right corner of the machine console until the light blinks green.
Dont discuss your new ideas before theyve agreed to your promotion.
Use sequencing words
Sequencing words are used to make instructions clear within a process:
First, make sure the appliance is disconnected.
Second, open the back with a screwdriver. Then, carefully pull out the two black cables
that lead into the power supply unit
In most cases, lengthy instructions are based on a framework of instructions ordered with sequencing
words, with warnings and advice interspersed. Its very important that no instruction, warning or
advice you give within this framework sounds like an order not even one! Managing the tone of
delivery of your instructions is thus paramount.
36
Maritime English
Before addressing the issue of tone, lets review some of the most important rules
for giving instructions. They will help ensure that properly worded instructions are
received with maximum effectiveness.
Giving instructions Basic rules of the road
1. Before giving any instructions, be sure you have the attention of those who should be listening.
2. If youre unsure if your listeners have really understood a specific instruction,
ask them to repeat it using their own words.

3. Demonstrate or illustrate whenever possible. Its done like this
4. Avoid giving extensive lists of instructions. People have trouble remembering
large amounts of information. For more complex tasks, break the instructions for each part of
the job down and deliver the instructions in smaller sets organised by stage,
phase or task.
5. Similarly, avoid boring your listeners with prolix descriptions of each task.
6. Use direct and specific language. Say exactly what you mean. Dont leave
people guessing.
7. Avoid moving to the next instruction before your listeners have completed the previous task.
Rushing through instructions is a sure way to ensure your listeners get lost.
8. Avoid misunderstandings by asking listeners how theyll approach the task and why.
9. Dont get sidetracked by problems or disagreements. Restate your instructions if necessary.
10. Check back during the initial stages of action to gauge the effectiveness of your delivery style
and the capacity of your listeners for following instructions correctly especially if the tasks
are complex. Give your listeners room to do what you expect of them, but be available to help
when needed.
Finding the right tone
Any warning, instruction or advice you give using the simple, unadorned imperative tense is almost
certain to sound like an unwelcome command. In most situations, commands and orders have no place
in business. This means that when you use the imperative, its important to consider softening every
statement. In addition to sequencing words which make it clear
you are not giving orders but rather plain instructions here are a few other approaches
for avoiding command language:
Use a modal verb to turn the order into a request
Modals are used to change the mood of a sentence. For example, You should help her finish the report
is more polite than Help her finish the report!
This technique is not especially useful for procedural instructions, but it is very effective for softening
single instructions like:
Shut the door behind you.
Can you shut the door behind you?
Will you shut the door behind you?
37
Maritime English
Could and would are the more polite forms of can and will.
Could you shut the door behind you?
Would you shut the door behind you?
Use the word please
Adding please to any question or imperative statement immediately softens its impact and makes it
clear that you wish to be polite:
Turn the printer off when youre finished.
Please turn the printer off when youre finished.
Turn the printer off when youre finished, please.
Can /Could /Will /Would you turn the printer off when youre finished, please?
Use an introductory phrase to soften the tone
There are a few very polite-sounding introductory phrases that are often used to soften statements that
would otherwise sound like commands. Here are a few of them (in order of the most indirect to the
most direct):
Introductory phrases
Most indirect
Would you mind possibly (+ ing )

I was hoping you could (+ infinitive without to )
Do you think you could (+ infinitive without to )
If you have a couple of minutes to spare
Id like you to
I want you to
Examples:
Would you mind possibly moving slightly to your left? Youre blocking my view of the
presentation.
I was hoping you could spare me a few minutes this morning.
Do you think you could do this photocopying for me?
If you have a couple of minutes to spare,
Id like you to run down to Reception and pick up a box thats waiting there for me.
Id like you to file these documents for me.
I want you to finish this by tomorrow.
The importance of clarity and directness
Most people believe the directions they give are already clear and direct. A recording often
demonstrates otherwise. Think about presentations or training sessions youve attended, or even about
cooking classes or bike-maintenance courses youve taken.
Even those purporting to be excellent communicators often have difficulty getting to the point without
creating confusion.
Of course this sounds ridiculous, but the fact is that all of us have at one time or another heard this
38
Maritime English
rambling sort of protracted instruction-giving. It is characterised by an excessive use of unnecessary

words, instructions couched as recommendations and irrelevant side information.
None of the people who have delivered such material ever intended to have this impact. The problem
is they didnt know what they intended to begin with. They simply started talking.
Planning what you say
Here are some guidelines for ensuring your instructions have maximum effectiveness:
Create an outline of every instruction you need to give

For each instruction, write down any points you want to make or key words you want to use.
Do this on paper until the process becomes second nature.
Keep each instruction short. Edit out all complex language, unnecessary words and irrelevant
information.
Make sure your instructions are logically ordered. Phrases like, before you do this... hint that
your instructions are not correctly organised. Focus instead on sequencing words like first,
second, next, then and finally. Instructions that seem out of order or chaotic may also frustrate
your listeners.
Be sure to include demonstrations, pictures, mental images and the like as much as possible.
Think about how you would respond to your instructions. Would you be able to remember as
much as you expect your listeners to remember? If you think it might be too much for yourself,
its probably too much for them.
Mayday Mayday Mayday.
This is Fireball. I am (a. in fire; b. firing; c. on fire; d. making a fire) in the (a.
berth; b. apartments; c. lounge; d. accommodation). My position is 275 two
miles south (a. for; b. of; c. off; d. from) Europe Point. I (a. solicit; b. require; c.
need; d. request) help. Over.
Fireball, this is Gibraltar Radio Station. Message received. Salvage vessel Atlas
will (a. go; b. head; c. proceed to; d. set off) you. Please contact (a. she; b. him;
c. he; d. her) on channel 14. Out.
Progress test
Exercise. Fill in the following words:
through, however, can, instead, done, figure, limit, need, than, want
Your job as a manager is to get things .... However, it also means getting things
done ... others. When you give orders, you ... the group to your level of
expertise. When you give instructions, you let the employees contribute
39
Maritime English
whatever they .... It may not be as good as what you would have done, but that
is an indication that you ... to do further training. ..., it also might be better ...
your idea.
The next time you start to give an order, give instructions .... Tell the employee
clearly want you ... done. Let them ... out how to do it. It is a better solution for
both of you.

Mayday Mayday Mayday.
This is Fireball. I am (a. in fire; b. firing; c. on fire; d. making a fire) in the (a. berth; b. apartments; c.
lounge; d. accommodation). My position is 275 two miles south (a. for; b. of; c. off; d. from) Europe
Point. I (a. solicit; b. require; c. need; d. request) help. Over.
Fireball, this is Gibraltar Radio Station. Message received. Salvage vessel Atlas will (a. go; b. head; c.
proceed to; d. set off) you. Please contact (a. she; b. him; c. he; d. it) on channel 14. Out.
References
1. IMO SMCP (2005), London, ISBN: 9280142119.
3. Murphy, R. Essential Grammar In Use. 1st ed. Cambridge,
Cambridge University Press, 1990 (ISBN 0 521 35770 5)
Unit 5
40
Maritime English
Fire-fighting
5.1
Fire on board
5.2
Engine room fire-fighting equipment
5.3
Idioms
Progress test
References
41
Maritime English
5.1
writes a notice warning against risks and giving reminders of safe practice on
board demonstrates understanding that idioms do not have literal translations
identifies and names parts of a machine and tools correctly
explains which materials, equipment and tools are required in the ER
Fire on board
A fire on a ship is one of the most dangerous incidents which can happen on board. If the fire is
detected in good time, the crew can prevent larger damages by taking immediate measures such as
fighting the fire by use of a fire hose under breathing protection. If the fire has already spread,
professional aid is absolutely needed, which can be rendered via helicopter or by ship.
Fighting a fire at sea is significantly different to fighting a fire on land. First of all, the first action
teams have to get to the source of the fire, which
means, as a rule, from the top downwards to the interior
of the
ship in the opposite direction of the natural spreading
of
heat and smoke. This is a serious obstacle which slows
the
fire-fighting operation down. What makes the firefighting operations even more difficult, are the narrow
stairs,
sticking places, unclear and labyrinth-like premises,
numerous hatches and ladders as well as ship
movements due to the sea and the thermal-conduction
properties of the ship's steel.
After the end of the operation at sea, people and material have to be taken back to land. And it is
always time to prepare for the next operation. At sea, the same principle applies as on land: No
operation is like the other.
There are two ways of fighting fire on board a ship - by using portable marine fire fighting equipments
or by using different types of fixed fire fighting installations. The type of system used for fighting fire
depends on the intensity and type of fire. Moreover, not all types of fixed fire installation systems can
be used for any type of ship. A specific type of fixed fire fighting installation can be used only for a
certain type of ship. In this article we will learn about a ship's fire main or the main fire fighting
installation system.
A ship's main emergency fire system consists of a specific number of fire hydrants located at strategic
positions across the ship. A series of dedicated pumps are provided to supply to these fire hydrants.
The number and capacity of pumps required for a particular type of ship is decided by an international
governing authority.
42
Maritime English
All these pumps are supplied power from the main power system. Apart from that, an emergency fire
pump is also provided, which is located remote from the machinery space. The emergency fire pump
has its own independent means of power source, which can be used to take over in case of main power
failure.
Moreover, all the hydrant outlets are provided with an isolating valve so as to isolate those valves
which are not in use. The fire hydrants are also provided with standard size flanges in order to attach
hoses which have nozzles attached to them. All the hoses are provided with snap in connectors for easy
and quick engaging and disengaging operation. The nozzles attached to the hoses are generally of two
types - jet and spray, depending on the type of discharge required for extinguishing the fire. Both the
nozzles can be adjusted according to the type of spray and flow required, which could be played over
the fire to cool it without spreading.
The pumps are connected with the main sea water connection, having appropriate head to prevent any
type of suction problem. The valves supplying water to these pumps are always kept open to provide a
constant supply of sea water to fight fire at any point of time. Though sea water is the best mode of
fighting fire, the main emergency fire fighting system can only be used on fires of Type A. However,
in case of class B fires, if all modes for extinguishing fire fails, sea water from main emergency system
can be used.
5.2
Engine Room Fire Fighting Equipment
The equipment should be of the more modern type of water nozzles which actually supply a fine mist,
rather than a flow of water. These systems cover of different areas of the engine room and control
room, but not the switchboard or the electrical generating component on the power generators. The
sprinkler system can be operated automatically by sensors or manually by the engineer. This starts the
water booster pump and opens up the compressed air supply which can be from dedicated high
pressure air bottles or the engine room air supply.
As we all know water is not normally used on oil fires but, because fine mist is injected into the area it
not only starves the fire of oxygen, but also dissipates the smoke.
Engine room Fire Extinguishers. There are four main types of fire extinguishers all coloured red
nowadays, with a different coloured band around the top of the body, denoting which type of
extinguisher it is. They are operated by removing the protective pin from the trigger and smartly
pulling the trigger.
Fire extinguishers are usually stored in a container together in a group of four; one of each type the
containers being positioned at high fire risk locations.
The four types are,
1. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher it has a black band around the body and is used for
extinguishing electrical and liquid fires.

2. Foam Fire Extinguisher this has a yellow band around the body and is used for extinguishing
oil fires.
3. Water Fire Extinguisher this has a red band contained between two thin white bands around
the body. It is used to extinguish paper, wood and cloth.

43
Maritime English
4. CO2 Fire Extinguisher this has a black band around the body and is used to extinguish
electrical and liquid fires.

Remember, only the Dry Powder and CO2 extinguishers can should be used on electrical fires.
Fire Hydrants and Hoses. These are positioned throughout the engine room; a fire axe is sometimes
alongside the fire hoses. The hydrant valves should be opened; hoses run out and discharged to the
bilges at regular intervals to ensure operation.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam. Known as AFFF and (pronounced A triple F) was developed in the
sixties and is a great innovation to firefighting not only in ships engine rooms, but on oil and gas
platforms worldwide. AFFF is supplied in its own containers and added to an AFFF storage tank and is
operated by pressurised seawater. The seawater mixes with the specialist liquid and exits the 11/2"
rubber hose through a brass nozzle as a pressurised film of thick, viscous foam. This is directed to the
base of the fire, quickly smothering the flames and dissipating the heat, smoke and fumes.
5.3
Idioms
Most Frequent Idioms
account for (something) - to provide an explanation or answer for something

The bad weather accounts for the fact that few people came to the meeting.
back and forth - backwards and forwards, first one way and then the other way
The argument went back and forth before the judge made a decision.
better off - to be in a better situation than before
My friend would be better off if he sold his old car and bought a new one.
break up - to separate, to divide into groups or pieces, to put an end to something
We usually break up into small groups during our class.
come up - to happen unexpectedly
I will not be able to go to the party if something else comes up.
come up with (something) - to produce or find a thought/idea/answer
I tried to come up with a name for the new magazine.
deal with (something) - to be concerned with something, to take action about something
We will deal with the boxes tomorrow.
end up (doing something or going somewhere) - to do something that one had not planned to do, to go
somewhere one had not planned to go
We ended up going to a restaurant after the movie last night.
44
Maritime English
figure out (someone or something) - to try to understand someone or something, to solve something
I finally figured out how to use the new DVD player.
for good - permanently
The city will close the public swimming pool for good next week.
get into (something) - to become interested or involved in something
I do not want to get into an argument with my friend.
get through (something) - to complete something, to finish something
My friend is having trouble getting through her final exams.
I have much reading that I must get through before tomorrow.
go ahead - to begin to do something
"Let`s go ahead and start now. We can`t wait any longer."
go over (something) - to examine or review something
The accountant will go over the books tomorrow.
We plan to go over that question tomorrow.
go through (something) - to discuss something, to look at something, to do something
The teacher decided to go through the exercise before the test.
go with (something) - to choose one thing rather than another
We decided to go with the small rental car rather than the large one.
hang out (somewhere/with someone) - to spend one`s time with no great purpose, to spend leisure
time with friends
Recently my friend has been hanging out with a group of people who are not a good influence on him.
in effect - for practical purposes, basically
The man's silence was in effect a way of disagreeing with the other people in the meeting.
in terms of (something) - with regard to something
In terms of our agreement with the other company we were not allowed to sell the products online.
kind of - somewhat, more or less, moderately
I was kind of tired when I arrived home last night.
look up (something) - to search for something in a dictionary or other book
I will look up my friend's name in the telephone book.
make a difference - to cause a change in a situation
It does not make a difference whether our boss comes to the meeting or not.
make sense - to seem reasonable
His new proposal really does make sense.
open to (something) - to be agreeable to learn or hear about new ideas or suggestions
Most members of the class were open to the teacher's ideas.
pick up (something) - to get or receive something
I will pick up my dry cleaning tomorrow.
I picked up a copy of the newspaper at the station.
point out (someone or something) - to explain or call attention to someone or something
My teacher was very kind when she pointed out the mistakes that I had made.
put out (something) - to produce or make something (a product/brochure/report/paper)
The company puts out a newsletter every month for the employees.
regardless of (something) - without considering or thinking about something, without regard to
something
Regardless of the weather we are going to go fishing tomorrow morning.
rule out (someone or something) - to decide against or eliminate someone or something
The police ruled out the man as a possible bank robber.
run into (something - a fact/trouble/problems/difficulty) - to experience something, to encounter
something
45
Maritime English
I ran into some interesting facts when I was researching my essay.

set up (something) - to establish something, to provide the money for something
The company set up a unique situation to test the new product.
show up - to appear, to arrive, to be present
"What time did your friend show up for the party?"
sort of (something) - to be almost something, to be similar to something, to be not quite something
"Did you finish cleaning the kitchen?" "Sort of, but not really."
stick with (something) - to continue doing something, to not quit something
My brother has been able to stick with his trumpet lessons since he was a child.
take advantage of (someone or something) - to use someone or something for one's own benefit
We took advantage of the beautiful weather and went to the beach.
take over (something) - to take control of something, to take command of something
The large company wants to take over some of the small companies in our area.
turn in (something) - to give something to someone, to hand something to someone
I arrived at school early so that I could turn in my essay.
turn out - to be found or known, to prove to be true
It turned out that more people came to the party than we expected.
with respect to (something) - referring to something, concerning something
I do not know what the company will do with respect to the old computer system.
work out (for the best) - to end successfully
I hope that everything will work out for my friend when she moves to London next week.
Give the right idiom
1. Nobody wanted to separate their groups.
2. The shipping company provided the money to build a new car carrier.
3. The engineer encountered some trouble when he was replacing the piston.
4. We decided to eliminate Monday as the day to have our meeting.
5. The company would be in a better situation if the crew took onboard
training.
6. I searched for the word in the dictionary.
Progress test
Exercise 1. Find the right place for the following words
Cooling Smothering Starving
Fire can be easily extinguished if minimum one element is isolated
(fuel or heat or air).
Removal of fuel from fire is called ...

Removal of heat from fire is called ...
Removal of air from fire is called ...
46
Maritime English
Exercise 2. Match the words with the parts of an extinguisher:

Squeeze grip nozzle
Fill cap
Carrying handle
Dry chemical
Hose
Puncture lever
Pull pin/seal
Cartridge guard assembly
CO2 cartridge

1. Nobody wanted to break up their groups.
2. The shipping company provided the money to set up a new car carrier.
3. The mechanic ran into trouble when he was replacing the piston.
4. We decided to rule out Monday as the day to have our meeting.
5. The company would be better off if the crew took onboard training.
6. I looked up the word in the dictionary.
47
Maritime English
References
2. Logie, Vivers, Nisbet, Marlins Study Pack 2 (book and two audio cassettes).
Edinburgh, Marlins, 1998 (ISBN 09531748 1 6)
4. http://www.brighthub.com/engineering/marine/articles
5. http://www.idiomconnection.com/mostfrequent.html
48
Maritime English
Unit 6
Special Events
6.1
6.2
Progress test
References
49
Maritime English
discuss aspects of safety and risk in the workplace

give warnings and advice concerning safe working practice on board
give reasons for the selection of materials, equipment and tools for
maintenance and repair work
use maritime English vocabulary
6.1
Special events
. 1Engine alarm at ... UTC/local time due to ......
.2
Speed reduced at ... UTC/local time due to ......
.3
Engine(s)stopped at ... UTC/local time due to ......
.4
Course altered at ... UTC/local time due to ....
.5
Master/Chief Engineer called at ... UTC/local time due to ... .
Briefing on temperatures, pressures and soundings
.1
...(equipment) temperature ... degrees (centigrade).
. 1.1
... temperature below/ above normal.
. 1.2
... temperature critical.
.2
...(equipment) pressure ... kilopounds/bars.
. 2.1
... pressure below/ above normal.
. 2.2
... pressure critical.
.3
Ballast/fresh water/fuel/ oil/slop sounding ... metres/ cubic metres.
.1
(present) revolutions of main engine(s) ... per minute.
.2
(present) output of main/ auxiliary engine(s) ... kilowatts.
.3
(present) pitch of propeller(s) ... degrees.
.4
Problems with machinery/ main engine(s)/ auxiliary engine(s).
.5
No problems with ... .
.6
Call watch engineer (if problems continue).
. 6.1 Call watch engineer ... minutes before arrival at approach/at ... UTC/local time.
Briefing on pumping of fuel, ballast water, etc.
.1
No pumping at present.
.2
Filled (no.) ... double bottom tank(s).
.3
Discharged (no.) ... double bottom tank(s).
.4
Filled (no.) ... tank(s).
. 5.
Transferring fuel/ballast/ fresh water/ oil from (no.) ... tank(s) to (no.) ... tank(s).
.6
Require further generator to operate additional pump(s).
Special machinery events and repairs
50
Maritime English
.
.
.
.
.
1
2
3
4
5
Breakdown of main engine(s) (at ... UTC/local time)..

Total blackout (at ... UTC/local time).
Main engine(s) stopped ... at ... UTC/local time due to ... ..
Speed reduced (at ... UTC/local time) due to ... .
Call Master/ Chief Engineer if revolutions of main engine(s) below ... per minute.
Propulsion system
.1
Is engine diesel or turbine?
.2
Is engine - room manned or is engine on bridge control?
.3
How long does it take to change engine from ahead to astern?
.4
How long does it take to start engine from stopped?
.5
Is extra power available in emergency?
.6
Do you have controllable or fixed pitch propeller?
.7
Do you have right - hand or left - hand propeller?
.8
Do you have single propeller or twin propellers?
.9
Do you have bow thruster or stern thruster?
.10
What is maximum manoeuvring power ahead/astern?
.11
What are maximum revolutions ahead/astern?
.12
Do twin propellers turn inward or outward when going ahead?
6.2
WELDING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. Accidents frequently occur in welding operations, and in

many instances, they result in serious injury to the welder or other personnel working in the immediate
area. What many welders fail to realize is that accidents often occur NOT because of a lack of
protective accidents equipment, but because of carelessness, lack of knowledge, and the
misuse of available equipment. You, the welder, should have a thorough KNOWLEDGE of safety
precautions relating to the job. But that is not all. You should also consider it a responsibility to
carefully OBSERVE the applicable safety precautions. In welding, being careless can cause serious
injury not only to yourself, but to others as well. Bear in mind that safety precautions for the
operation of welding equipment vary considerably because of the different types of equipment
involved.
To prevent injury to personnel, extreme caution should be exercised when using any types of welding
equipment. Injury can result from fire, explosions, electric shock, or harmful agents. Both the general
and specific safety precautions listed below must be strictly observed by workers who weld or cut
metals.
a. Do not permit unauthorized persons to use welding or cutting equipment.
b. Do not weld in a room with wooden floors, unless the floors are protected from hot metal by means
of fire resistant fabric, sand, or other fireproof material. Be sure that hot sparks or hot metal will not
fall on the operator or on any welding equipment components.
c. Remove all flammable material, such as cotton, oil, gasoline, etc., from the vicinity of welding.
d. Before welding or cutting, warm those in close proximity who are not protected to wear proper
clothing or goggles.
e. Remove any assembled parts from the component being welded that may become warped or
otherwise damaged by the welding process.
f. Do not leave hot rejected electrode stubs, steel scrap, or tools on the floor or around the welding
equipment. Accidents and/or fires may occur.
g. Keep a suitable fire extinguisher nearby at all times. Ensure the fire extinguisher is in operable
condition.
h. Mark all hot metal after welding operations are completed. Soapstone is commonly used for this
purpose.
51
Maritime English
General precautions on operating metal arc-welding equipment. For specific instructions on the
operation, maintenance, and care of individual equipment, use the equipment manufacturers
instruction manual as a guide. In regard to general precautions, know your equipment and how to
operate it. Use only approved welding equipment, and see that it is kept in good, clean condition.
Before you start to work, make sure that the welding machine frame is grounded, that neither
terminal of the welding generator is bonded to the frame, and that all electrical connections are
securely made. The ground connection must be attached firmly to the work, not merely laid loosely
upon it. Keep welding cables dry and free of oil or grease. Keep cables in good condition,
and, at all times, take appropriate steps to protect them from damage. If it is necessary to carry
cables some distance from the machines, run the cables overhead, if possible, and use
adequate supporting devices. When you use a portable machine, take care to see that the primary
supply cable is laid separately so that it does not become entangled with the welding supply cable.
Any portable equipment mounted on wheels should be securely blocked to prevent accidental
movement during the welding operations. When you stop work for any appreciable length of time,
be SURE to de-energize the equipment. When not in use, the equipment should be completely
disconnected from the source of power.
Exercise. Insert the words in the right place:
tools / cylinders / wet / condition/ up / no / non-slip
1. ... welding in ... areas
2. Wear ... shoes
3. Keep ... in good ...
52
Maritime English
4. Tie ... gas ...
Progress test
Exercise. Answer the questions:
1. What are the most frequent causes of accidents?
2. What must you do before you start work?
3. What should you do when the equipment is not in use?
4. Do you have to use the manufacturers instruction manual?

Exercise. Insert the words in the right place:
tools / cylinders / wet / condition/ up / no / non-slip
1. no welding in wet areas
53
Maritime English
2. Wear non-slip shoes.
3. Keep tools in good condition.
4. Tie up gas cylinders.
References
1. Logie, Vivers, Nisbet Marlins Study Pack 2 (book and 2 audio cassettes).
3. http://www.elefanweld.com/welding-techniques/welding-safetyprecaution.html
4. http://www.fortunecity.com/village/lind/247/weld_book/Ch2.htm
54
Maritime English
Unit 7
Function of Auxiliary Machinery
7.1
Auxiliary machinery
7.2
7.3
Comparisons
Progress test
References
55
Maritime English
differentiate between the auxiliary machinery

describe the characteristics of each auxiliary machinery
understand changes of state verbs
make comparative forms
7.1
Auxiliary machinery
We usually have a purpose for reading a passage. If we know nothing about a subject, our purpose
may be to gain a general knowledge of it. Later we may want to read about aspects of it in greater
detail. Comprehension will be made easier by giving ourselves a definite purpose based on our
understanding of what the passage is going to be about from the title and the introductory
paragraph. This purpose will help focus our attention.
Read through this passage and note down (1) the different functions that auxiliary machinery is
designed to carry out and (2) examples of the equipment designed to carry out those functions.
Besides running and maintaining the main propulsion machinery of the ship, the Engineer Officer
has a great deal of auxiliary machinery to look after. Auxiliary machinery covers everything
mechanical on board ship except the main engines and boilers. It includes almost all the pipes and
fittings and the equipment needed to carry out a number of functions. These functions may be
summarized as follows.
To supply the needs of the main engines and boilers. Air compressors are used to supply compressed
air for starting engines. Coolers are used for cooling either oil or water. Water for the boilers is also
heated before being admitted into the boiler by feed water heaters. This increases the efficiency of
the boiler.
To keep the ship dry and trimmed. This is done through the bilge and ballast pumping systems. The
former removes water which has gathered in machinery, cargo and other spaces. The latter pumps
water into and out of ballast tanks. In general cargo ships, these systems are usually interconnected
and served by the same pumps. In tankers and other bulk carriers, these systems are entirely separate,
because these ships may need to ballast at 12,000 tonne/hour and therefore need larger pumps.
To supply domestic needs such as fresh water from distillation plant, sanitation from sewage plant
and heating and ventilation from heaters and air-conditioners.
To apply the main power of the engines for propulsion and manoeuvring. The engine power is
transmitted to the propeller by a line of steel shafting. This is made up of the thrust shaft,
intermediate shafts and the propeller shaft. Steering gear is also necessary to operate the rudder for
manoeuvring.
56
Maritime English
To supply the ship with electrical power and lighting. This is done by steam or diesel-powered
generators.
To moor the ship and handle cargo. Deck machinery is extensive and varied. It can be divided into
anchor-handling machinery - windlass and capstans, mooring machinery winches and capstans,
and cargo-handling machinery winches and cranes. It also includes cargo oil pumps.
To provide for safety. Firefighting and fire detection equipment, lifeboat engines and launching gear
are also included;
Responsibility for auxiliary machinery is often delegated to individual engineer officers, each one
taking responsibility for the efficient working of certain items. A lot of equipment is duplicated, so
that for example, one generator can be overhauled without cutting off the supply of electricity to the
ship. Engineer officers on tankers are also involved in operating the cargo pumping machinery,
although the pump rooms themselves are often manned by officers from the Deck Department.
7.2
Change from one state to another can be expressed verbally by:

1. Specific change of state verbs
e.g. to melt, to freeze, to condense, to rot, to rust
2.Verbs formed by adding -ify, -ize (-ise) to nouns and adjectives
e.g. solid => to solidify
liquid => to liquefy
vapour => to vaporize

crystal => to crystallize
(Note: changes of spelling are often necessary.)

3.General change of state verbs
to become + adjective/noun
e.g. When air is compressed, it becomes hot.
When copper and tin are mixed, they become bronze.
to get + past participle/adjective
e.g. With poor lubrication, pistons get worn.
to turn + colour
e.g. Blue litmus paper turns red, if immersed in acid.
to change into + noun
e.g. Water changes into ice when the temperature drops below 0C.
to convert/be converted into + noun
57
Maritime English
e.g. At an oil refinery crude oil is converted into different oil products.
Exercise 1. Complete the following sentences by using one of the verbs above in the
appropriate form:
(a) An internal combustion engine ..... chemical energy into
mechanical energy.
(b) With poor lubrication engine parts. worn.
(c) When gas is cooled below a certain temperature, it
(d) The reciprocating motion of a piston....a rotary motion by
a connecting rod and crank.
7.3
Comparisons
Comparative statements point out the difference or the equality between things.
Statements pointing out the difference can be made with:
1. Adjectives and adverbs in the comparative form + than
e.g. Cruisers are larger than frigates.
Water-tube boilers are more efficient than Scotch boilers. Light travels more
quickly than sound.
2. More or less/fewer with noun + than
e.g. Less time is needed to load a container ship than a 'tween deck vessel. There
are fewer passenger liners today than there were thirty years ago. More money is
now spent on fuel than before. (Note: less is used with uncountable nouns,
fewer with countables.)
Exercise 1. Rewrite the following sentences so that the part after than is put first, but
the meaning stays the same.
A nautical mile is longer than a statute mile.
Manila rope is more expensive than sisal rope.
A diesel engine is more economical than a petrol engine.
100C is hotter than 100F.
The Chief Officer is senior to the Second Officer.
There are more members of the Catering Department in a passenger
liner than in a cargo vessel.
(g) Mercury freezes at a lower temperature than water.
(h) High carbon steel contains more carbon than mild steel.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
58
Maritime English
(i) A ULCC is larger than a VLCC.

(j) A nuclear submarine is faster than a conventional submarine.
Statements making equal comparison can be made by
3. Using as ... as. The negative is not so/as ... as
e.g. The Deck Department is as important as the Engine Department. The
Atlantic Ocean is not as big as the Pacific Ocean. A Scotch boiler does not
work so efficiently as a water-tube boiler. With nouns this structure needs
care. Study these examples:
(singular countable noun ) e.g. Steel is not as good a conductor as copper.
( plural countable noun) A cargo ship does not have as many lifeboats as a
passenger liner.
(uncountable noun ) A plane does not carry as much cargo as a
ship.
Exercise 2. Rewrite these sentences using not so/as ... as, but without changing the
meaning.
(a) A nautical mile is longer than a statute mile.
(b) Manila rope is more expensive than sisal rope.
(c) A diesel engine is more economical than a petrol engine.
(d) 100C is hotter than 100F.
(e) High carbon steel is harder than low carbon steel.
(f) Fewer tankers will be built this year than last year.
(g) Mercury has a lower freezing point than water.
(h) A 'tween deck vessel has more decks than a single deck vessel, (i)
Nowadays British ships carry more tonnage than before, (j) A nuclear
submarine has a higher underwater speed than a conventional submarine.
Complete the following sentences by using an appropriate verbs
above in the appropriate for:
1. Water steam when it reaches boiling point.

2. Natural fibre ropes if allowed to remain\get .
3. When red litmus paper is placed in an alkali, it blue.
4. Liquids ... less dense, when they are heated.
5. The sky often ... red at sunset.
59
Maritime English
Progress test
(Crossword puzzle). Fill in the definitions:

Exercise.
Complete the following sentences

appropriate verbs above in the appropriate for:
by
using
an
1. Water steam when it reaches boiling point. (turn into)

2. Natural fibre ropes if allowed to remain\get . (rot)
3. When red litmus paper is placed in an alkali, it blue. (turns)
4. .Liquids ... less dense, when they are heated. (become/get)
5. The sky often ... red at sunset. (turns)
References
1. Blakey, T.N. English For Maritime Studies. 2nd ed. Hemel Hempstead,
Prentice Hall International (UK) Ltd, 1987 (ISBN 0 13 281379 3)

3. http://iteslj.org/cw/2/sr-comparatives.htm
60
Maritime English
Unit 8
Safety on Board
8.1
8.2
Ordering evacuation
8.3
Lifesaving equipment
Progress test
References
61
Maritime English
identifie, name and explain the function of life saving equipment on

ships discuss aspects of safety;
identifie, name and explain the function of the equipment in survival
craft
give warnings and advice concerning safety on board;
prepare and deliver a presentation on accident prevention on board ship
8.1
1.This is your Captain speaking.

.2.1
We have grounded / a minor flooding / a minor fire in ... .
.2.2
There is no immediate danger to crew, passengers or vessel - and there is no
reason to be alarmed.
.2.3
For safety reasons I request all crew members to go to their assembly stations.
.2.3.1 All officers to report to the bridge.
.2.3.2 Watchkeepers remain at stations until further order.
.2.4 As soon as I have further information I will make another announcement - there is
no danger at this time.
.2.5 Fire parties / damage control teams are fighting the fire / flooding. We also have
radio contact with other vessels / coast radio stations.
.2.6 The fire / flooding is under control.
.3
This is your Captain speaking. I have another announcement:
.3.1 The fire/ flooding is not under control yet.
.3.2 Leave the engine room/superstructure/your stations/your cabins/... immediately close all openings.
.3.3 Take lifejackets with you.
.3.3.1 Take your emergency equipment with you according to muster list.
.3.4 Stand by fire fighting stations / damage control stations.
.3.4.1 Fire fighting stations/damage control stations standing by.
.3.5 All crew members to assembly stations.
3.6
Follow escape routes shown.
.3.6.1 Route to assembly station ... not clear.
.3.6.2 Route to assembly station will be via ... .
.3.7
Assemble on deck.
.3.8 Do not go to lifeboat / liferaft stations before ordered.
.3.9 Do not enter lifeboats/liferafts - the order to enter will be given from the bridge/
by officers.
Checking status of escape routes
.1
Check escape routes and report.
62
Maritime English
.1.1
.1.2
.1.2.1
8.2
All escape routes clear.

Escape route(s) from ... (to ...) / via ... not clear (yet).
Escape route(s) from ... (to ...) / via ... blocked.
Ordering evacuation
1.
Evacuate all rooms / spaces / decks / ... and report.
2.
Evacuate engine room and report.
3.
Evacuate no. ... hold(s) / tank(s)and report.
4.
Evacuate superstructure and report.
5.
Evacuate accommodations and report.
6.
Evacuate ... deck / space / area and report.
7.
Do not enter ... deck / space / area.
8.
Report missing persons.
9.
1
No person missing.
9.2
Number of missing persons: ... (in... deck / space / area).
10.
Report injured persons.
11.
Provide first aid (in vessel's hospital).
12.
All persons outside danger area.
13.
Roll call
14.
Report number of all persons / passengers / crew members at
assembly stations.
15.
Search for missing passenger(s) / crew member(s) and report.
16.
Watchkeepers to assembly stations.
17.
Lifeboatmen ! Check equipment of crew at assembly stations and
report.
18.
.
Go for blanket / stretcher / ... and report.
19.
Lifeboatmen! Check outfit of passengers at assembly stations and
report.
20.
.4.2.1.1
Put on warm clothing / long sleeved shirt / long trousers / strong
shoes / head covering /
21.
... and report.
22.
Ordering abandon vessel
23.
Swing out no. ... lifeboat(s) and report.
24.
No. ... lifeboat(s) swung out.
25.
Lower no. ... lifeboat(s) alongside embarkation deck and report.
26.
No. ... lifeboat(s) alongside embarkation deck.
27.
Enter lifeboat(s) (no. ...) and report.
28.
Jump into water and enter lifeboat(s) / liferaft(s).
29.
Jump onto liferaft(s) alongside vessel.
30.
Do not push each other when entering.
31.
Assist injured / helpless persons.
32.
Clear entrance of lifeboat / liferaft.
33.
Sit down in lifeboat / liferaft immediately.
34.
Hold on to ropes or to your seat when launching.
35.
No. ... lifeboat(s) / liferaft(s) entered.
36.
Let go no. ... lifeboat(s) / liferaft(s) and report.
37.
No. ... lifeboat(s) / liveraft(s) is let go.
38.
Throw over board no. ... liferaft and report.
39.
No. ... liferaft thrown over board.
63
Maritime English
40.
41.
8.3
Stand clear of vessel and report.

No. ... lifeboat(s) / liferaft(s) standing clear.
Lifesaving Equipment on Ships
However good the systems for preventing shipwrecks and other accidents, human errors and the power
of the sea ensure that disasters will still happen. So, as well as improving safety, efforts have been put
into saving lives when things go wrong at sea.
Lifeboats. The ship`s best-known piece of equipment for saving life is the lifeboat, although it was
not until as late as 1929 that regulations made it compulsory for a ship to have enough for everyone on
board. It was argued that, if the ship took a heavy list, it would be impossible to launch all the boats
anyway. This now sounds like an argument to have more boats rather than less!
Like other equipment, lifeboats have evolved greatly. Even 1950, many
cargo ships would have boats that could only be propelled by rowing
(difficult when it was crowded with survivors) or sails. Nevertheless,
there were many epic voyages made in such boats, particularly in
wartime when ships had been sunk by enemy submarines far from land.
Perhaps the most extraordinary story is that of Poon Lim, a Chinese
steward on the British ship Benlomond, which was torpedoed in the
South Atlantic in November 1942. Poon Lim survived for an incredible
133 days on a liferaft, using a hook he found to catch fish. When
eventually rescued by a Brazilian fisherman, he could not walk, but soon recovered and expressed a
desire to go back to sea! Motor lifeboats were first provided for big passenger ships and these were
often fitted with wireless radios.
The biggest difficulty with lifeboats has always been launching them, especially if the sea is rough, or
the ship has heeled over. Passengers or crew need to get into the boats, which then need to be swung
out over the ship`s side and then lowered carefully into the sea. All this can be difficult and dangerous
for those in the boat if the ship is listing or the sea is rough. Along with lifeboats themselves, the
devices for lowering them, called davits, have evolved to make launching safer.
Today, ships are often fitted with lifeboats that are totally enclosed. This protects those inside from the
weather, but also means that the crew have a better chance of escaping if their ship has a dangerous
cargo which is leaking. Imagine trying to escape from a tanker whose cargo is leaking on to the sea
and is ablaze. Where possible, the lifeboat is mounted on a steep ramp fitted above the stern of the
ship.
This means that it can be launched even if the ship has a heavy list and it can safely move away from a
burning ship.
64
Maritime English
Liferafts and other buoyant apparatus. As well as lifeboats, ships carry other sorts of buoyant
apparatus. On ferries and other craft which are never too far from land, the seats on deck are designed
to float, and have lifelines attached. The hope is that rescuers will soon come along if the vessel sinks.
Liferafts have also become very popular. They can be stored on deck easily and quickly
inflated when needed. Unlike a lifeboat, they cannot be steered, and rely on rescuers finding them.
High-sided passenger ships have marine evacuation systems, where chutes lead down to huge liferafts.
Radio transmitter
The most effective piece of lifesaving equipment on a ship, however, does not float at all: the
radio transmitter. It can be used to summon help unless the disaster happens very quickly, in which
case there is little chance of the boats or rafts getting away.
Now, there is even an automatic way of sending distress messages, the Global Maritime
Distress and Safety System. Ships carry an EPIRB, a radio set in a container designed to float off if the
ship sinks. It then automatically sends out an alarm signal that is picked up by navigation satellites that
can monitor its position very accurately. Of course, this can send out false alarms. A distress signal
was once picked up whose position was found to be in the middle of England. The equipment off a
ship was being driven to an inland depot for maintenance when it was accidentally set off!
What is the captains message? Use the SMCP.
Situation:
- the ship is making water, but not much;
- damage control teams are fighting the incoming flow;
- the people should not worry;
(after a while)
- the flow of water cannot be stopped;
- passengers should have lifejackets;
- all officers are requested to come to the bridge.
Progress test
T1. Explain the significance of the following data related to the evolution of
lifeboats:
- 1929
- launching a lifeboat
- enclosed lifeboats
T 2. Safety situation on land:
You are in the woods during a storm. Your tent is close by and would offer
shelter from the pouring rain. There's a campsite picnic shelter a few
minutes down the trail. And then you remember that your car is
parked down the road. What's your safest bet to ensure you and your
family's safety? Why?
65
Maritime English

Exercise. What is the captains message? Use the SMCP.
This is your Captain speaking.
We have a minor flooding. Damage control teams are fighting the flooding. There is no immediate danger
to crew, passengers or vessel - and there is no reason to be alarmed.
The flooding is not under control yet. Take lifejackets with you. All officers to report to the bridge.
References
1. Georgescu, M., Outboard Communication, (2010), ISBN 978-606-8105-13-
0, Nautica Press, Constana;

2. Logie, Vivers, Nisbet Marlins Study Pack 2 (book and two audio cassettes).
4. http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res
5. http://www.plimsoll.org/WrecksAndAccidents/ImprovingSafety
66
Maritime English
Unit 9
Man overboard
9.1
Prevention
9.2
9.3
Progress test
References
67
Maritime English
prepare and deliver a presentation on accident prevention on board ship;

describe procedures for survival at sea
explain actions to be taken in MOB situations
write a report of an incident that occurred during heavy weather at sea;
9.1
Prevention
A man overboard is an emergency situation. In the open ocean the casualty can quickly disappear
from sight. In many seas the water is so cold they will quickly die from the cold. The casualty may be
injured in falling overboard. In some cases the casualty may not even be seen to fall. Whatever the
circumstances of the fall, the casualty's chances of survival depend on the speed and efficiency of
the action by the remainder of the crew. This means every crew member must know what is expected
of them, and be able to put into practice the emergency procedures without delay.
Prevention saves many more lives than rescue. Make sure you do not fall overboard yourself.
Follow company procedures at all times. Work safely, without taking unnecessary risks. There are
some simple things you can do to protect yourself:
When working on deck, make sure you are wearing the right protective
equipment and safety harnesses, whatever job you are doing.
Always wear the correct footwear.
Beware when you are working near the side of the ship.
If there is any risk of falling over the side, it is essential to wear a lifejacket and
a safety harness. It is also necessary for someone to be present, such as an officer
or the bosun, to supervise the safety of the work. As an additional precaution,
the bridge must be informed when the work starts and when the work ends.
Try and be aware of the state of other members of the crew, passengers or
anyone else on board. People are more at risk if they drink too much, suffer from
seasickness, or even become depressed. In any of these cases, if there is time,
inform an officer of the potential danger. If the person can be escorted to a safe
area, then do so first.
Generally speaking, shipboard life is regular. So if someone is missing from their

usual post or routine, make an effort to check where they are.
Remember the maxim: "One hand for the ship and one hand for yourself".
68
Maritime English
9.2
This is an emergency; a life is at stake. It is important you think clearly and act quickly.
Keep the casualty in sight and attract as much attention as possible. This means
going to the rail and moving aft along the rail as the ship moves forward.
Do as much as you can to attract attention. This includes shouting "man overboard"
loudly and repeatedly. You should also shout "port side" or "starboard side",
whichever is appropriate, to indicate where the emergency is.
Keep shouting until someone hears you. If there is a life-buoy nearby, throw it
over the side.
Once someone has heard you and taken in what has happened, they should
immediately inform the bridge, whether by walkie-talkie, ship's telephone or by
any other means. The officer of the watch must be informed as quickly as
possible, and told which side of the ship the casualty went overboard, port or
starboard.
It may happen that for some reason no-one hears you. In these circumstances, as
soon as you lose sight of the person in the water you must contact the bridge
yourself. It is important to keep calm. The officer must be told how long the
casualty has been in the water. Remember, this is an emergency, so move quickly.
This is the first stage in the rescue. These first minutes can be crucial to the
survival of the casualty. Keep them in sight, raise the alarm, throw a life-buoy if
possible and inform the bridge as quickly as possible. Every second is vital.
9.3
How you should react depends on the sea temperature and general conditions but you should
always:
Keep your eyes open for a life-buoy thrown from the ship. If you believe you can
reach it, swim towards the life-buoy and get into it by inverting it over an
upraised arm. Once you have it over your head - that is, you are in the life-buoy
- and are as secure as you can make yourself, keep as still as possible. It is
important to retain as much strength and stamina as you can to have the best
chance of surviving.
In cold water your body will get a shock from the temperature. It will make you
breathe rapidly for several minutes and your heart rate will increase. You must
swim as little as possible until the effect of the shock has passed.
It is important to keep as warm as you can. Tighten up any wrist, neck and ankle
69
Maritime English
fastenings on your clothing to keep as much warmth close to your body as you
can. Do not tire yourself out. Swim as little as possible while you wait to be
rescued. The longer you can stay warm the longer you will remain conscious, and
the greater will be your chances of survival.
If you are wearing a lifejacket, remember to use your whistle to attract attention
when the rescue boat is nearby.
In rough weather conditions, there is one more thing you must do. Whether you
have a life-buoy or not, turn your back to the wind and the waves to keep your
mouth and nose clear of spray. This will require action with your hands; when
doing so try and keep your elbows to your sides to minimize heat loss.
Movement uses up energy and also increases heat loss by moving water in and
out through your clothing. It is also best to keep your legs together. Try and keep
calm. You will need to be patient, as there is little else you can do to help
yourself. Keep in mind that the ship will return, and that your job is to survive as
long as possible.
If no-one saw the person fall overboard, the following actions should be taken.
Give the right order.
Someone is reported missing.
It is possible he could be lying injured somewhere on board ship, or even
be asleep in an empty cabin.
The crew is mustered and a search is organised as quickly as possible.
The officer of the watch alerts the master.
It is important to exclude these possibilities before proceeding to the next
step.
Friends and colleagues of the missing person are questioned to see when
and where he was last seen.
The aim is to work out where he might be if he is still on board.
Progress test
Answer the questions:
What four precautions should you take to avoid falling overboard yourself?
What is the first thing to do if you see someone fall in the water?
What should you shout to attract attention?
When can you stop shouting?
When you have attracted someone's attention, what should they then do?
What should you do if no-one hears you?
When should you throw a life-buoy?
70
Maritime English

Exercise 1. If no-one saw the person fall overboard, the following
actions should be taken. Give the right order.
Someone is reported missing.
1. The officer of the watch alerts the master.
2. The crew is mustered and a search is organised as quickly as possible.
3. Friends and colleagues of the missing person are questioned to see when and where he was
last seen.
4. The aim is to work out where he might be if he is still on board.
5. It is possible he could be lying injured somewhere on board ship, or even be asleep in an
empty cabin.
6. It is important to exclude these possibilities before proceeding to the next step.
References
1. Georgescu, M., Outboard Communication, (2010), ISBN 978-606-8105-13-
0, Nautica Press, Constana;

2. Logie, Vivers, Nisbet Marlins Study Pack 2 (book and two audio cassettes).
(1998), Edinburgh, Marlins (ISBN 09531748 1 6)
3. Murphy, R. Essential Grammar In Use. ,(1990), 1-st ed., Cambridge
University Press, (ISBN 0 521 35770 5)
4. http://adventure.howstuffworks.com/how-to-survive-a-storm.htm
71
Maritime English

Limba Eng EM II s1

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Limba Eng EM II s1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Maritime University of Constanta

demonstrate an understanding of a standardized language;

Basic communicative features

Spelling of letters, digits and numbers

Spelling of digits and numbers

Distress, urgency and safety signals

to be used to announce a distress message

to be used to announce an urgency message

to be used to announce a safety message

Present Perfect and Past Tense

Certain time in the past or just / already / yet?

Present Perfect Simple

certain time in the past

just / already / not yet

Certain event in the past or how often so far?

Present Perfect Simple

certain event in the past

Emphasis on action or result?

Present Perfect Simple

Present Perfect Simple

We (sail / just) 50 miles.

10. I (be / not) to Spain yet.

My friend (be) ... to Edinburgh three times.

Answers to self-assessment test

We have just sailed 50 miles.

10. I havent been to Spain yet.

Several famous people were born in Edinburgh, for example:

identify general maritime words

General and VTS terms

A whistle signal made by the vessel

Concise explanatory information to crew and/or passengers

.1 Chain connecting a vessel to the anchor(s)

Here: case of death in an accident or shipping disaster

.1 To make sure that equipment etc. is in proper condition or that everything is

An emergency reversal operation of the main engine(s) to avoid a collision

Damage control team

A group of crew members trained for fighting flooding in the vessel

Vessel still afloat, abandoned at sea

A vessel damaged or impaired in such a manner as to be incapable of proceeding

Distress alert (GMDSS)

A radio signal from a distressed vessel automatically directed to an MRCC giving

Here: the verbal exchange of information on radio from ship to shore

Depth in water at which a vessel floats

Drop back (to)

Digital Selective Calling (in the GMDSS system)

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

A clearly marked way in the vessel which has to be followed in case of an

Estimated Time of Arrival

Estimated Time of Departure

Major uncontrolled flow of seawater into the vessel

Fixed foam/powder/water cannon shooting fire - extinguishing agents on tank deck,

Often harmful gas produced by fires, chemicals, fuel, etc.

General emergency alarm

To keep out of the way of another vessel

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

(Differential) Global (satellite) Positioning System

Ropes supported by stanchions around an open hatch to prevent persons from

To reduce the oxygen in a tank by inert gas to avoid an explosive atmosphere

Jettison (to) (of cargo)

To lower, e.g. lifeboats, to the water

On or towards the sheltered side of a ship; opposite of windward

Vessels sideways drift leeward of the desired course

Here: inclination of the vessel to port side or starboard side