Inspection

• Are steering gear tests carried out satisfactorily within 12 hours prior vessel's arrival & departure and logged in Bridge Log Book?
• Are steering gear tests carried out satisfactorily within 12 hours prior entering in USA navigating waters as per CFR regulations and logged in Bridge Log Book?
• Has the steering gear test check list been completed?
• Are main, auxiliary, remote steering gear control systems in good order?
• Are all rudder angle indicators in good order?
• Is the maximum time limit of full rudder's movement (from 35 degrees on either side to 30 degrees on the other side) 28 seconds using one pump of each 100% steering capacity?
• Is the maximum time limit of full rudder's movement (from 35 degrees on either side to 30 degrees on the other side) 28 seconds using two pumps of each 50% steering capacity?
• Are the response time tests carried out in both hand & NFU mode for No.1 & No.2 Auto-Pilot systems?
• Has emergency power supply been checked?
• Is the maximum time limit of  rudder's movement (from 15 degrees on either side to 15 degrees on the other side) 60 seconds in emergency mode?
• Are power unit failure alarms working properly?
• Are remote control system power failure alarms working properly?
• Are communication means (i.e. telephone) between wheelhouse and steering gear compartment in good order?
• Is the compass repeater located in S/G room in good order?
• Are CCP controls & indications in good order (if fitted)?
• Are there operating instructions with a block diagram indicating change-over procedures available in both wheelhouse & S/G room?
• Is hydraulic oil charged in emergency reserve tank in required minimum level?
• Is the steering gear system free of obvious leaks?
• Is all equipment lubricated?
• Is the S/G room access free of any obstructions?
• Is the S/G room fitted with suitable arrangements (non-slip surfaces, handrails) in case of hydraulic oil leakage?
• Is crew familiar with emergency steering procedures?
• Are emergency steering drills carried out at least once every three (3) months?

Special Requirement

• Rightship requires the emergency steering position rudder angle indicator to be clearly marked red and green.
  

Common Poor Practices

• Steering gear system was leaking.
• Crew members were not familiar with emergency steering prodcedures.
• Emergency reserve tank oil level indicator was not operational and the glass cover was cracked.
  

References