Learn what the ship emergency steering gear drill is, why it’s required under SOLAS, how often it must be done, and how it’s conducted onboard. A must-read for cadets, officers, maritime students, and professionals.
Can You Steer a Ship Without the Main Bridge Controls?
Imagine you’re navigating through narrow straits, and the ship’s main steering control suddenly fails. What now? This is where the emergency steering gear system becomes a critical backup. But having it isn’t enough—it must be tested regularly through drills. These drills are not only required by SOLAS regulations but are also essential for the safety of the ship and its crew.
Let’s break down what emergency steering gear drills are, how they’re performed, and why they’re a vital part of maritime safety.
What Is Emergency Steering Gear?
The emergency steering gear is a backup system that allows manual or alternative control of the ship’s rudder in case the primary steering system fails.
It usually involves:
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A manual hydraulic pump or electric motor in the steering gear compartment
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Communication systems to coordinate with the bridge
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Emergency power supply (where applicable)
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Operational controls near the rudder stock
What Is the Emergency Steering Gear Drill?
An emergency steering gear drill is a SOLAS-mandated onboard training activity where the crew practices switching to and operating the emergency steering system. It ensures that personnel are familiar with:
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Location and function of the emergency system
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Communication procedures with the bridge
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Manual steering techniques
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Safety and isolation procedures
SOLAS and IMO Requirements for Emergency Steering Gear Drills
Under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 26, and IMO guidelines:
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Drill Frequency: Must be conducted at least once every three (3) months
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Pre-departure Check: Steering gear (main and emergency) must be tested within 12 hours before departure
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Drill Contents: Must include:
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Direct control from the steering gear room
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Communication between the bridge and steering compartment
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Operation of alternative power sources (if fitted)
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“Emergency drills aren’t just checkboxes—they’re a dry run for real danger.” — Marine Safety Expert, Capt. S. Noor
Emergency Steering Gear Drill: Step-by-Step Procedure
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Inform All Departments – Notify bridge and engine room before drill
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Isolate Power (if needed) – Simulate failure by isolating main steering power
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Shift to Emergency Mode – Operate emergency steering via local control
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Communicate with Bridge – Use intercom or VHF for coordination
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Follow Helm Orders – Respond to “hard port,” “midship,” etc. from bridge
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Restore System – Switch back to normal steering after drill
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Log the Drill – Record in logbook as per ISM requirements
How Often Should Emergency Steering Drills Be Conducted?
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As per SOLAS: Once every 3 months
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Before Voyage: Full operational test within 12 hours before sailing
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Company Safety Manuals: May require additional drills or checks
Real-World Example
During a PSC (Port State Control) inspection in Rotterdam, a vessel was detained because the crew was unfamiliar with emergency steering procedures. This highlights the importance of frequent, well-practiced drills—not just paperwork compliance.
Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the SOLAS rule for emergency steering gear?
A1: SOLAS requires drills every 3 months and testing before departure.
Q2: How often should drills be conducted?
A2: Every three (3) months, at minimum.
Q3: What should drills include?
A3: Operation from steering gear room, bridge communication, and alternative power operation.
Q4: What’s the emergency steering procedure?
A4: Isolate the main system, shift to emergency control, follow bridge orders, and document the process.
Q5: What’s the checklist for drills?
A5: Crew present, communication check, power check, manual control check, log entry, reset system.
Related Search Queries & Their Quick Answers
| Search Query | Short Answer |
|---|---|
| Emergency steering gear on ship | A manual or backup system used when the main steering fails |
| Emergency steering procedure | Step-by-step shift to manual/emergency control with bridge coordination |
| Emergency steering gear regulations | Covered under SOLAS Chapter V, Reg. 26 |
| Emergency steering gear test as per SOLAS | Test within 12 hours before departure; drills every 3 months |
| Emergency steering checklist | Includes communication, control operation, power source check, and logging |
| Emergency steering drill frequency | Every 3 months (quarterly) |
| Emergency steering gear drill on ships PDF | Training materials and procedural guides, available via shipping companies or Marine Insight |
| SOLAS requirement for emergency steering gear | Mandates drills and operational readiness of both main and emergency systems |
Conclusion: Drills That Can Save Lives
Emergency steering gear drills may seem routine, but in a real crisis, they are the difference between control and chaos. By complying with SOLAS, following proper procedures, and practicing regularly, ships can ensure safety, efficiency, and preparedness.
Learn more about SOLAS Chapter V, ISM Code practices, and real-world drill scenarios at: