One of the easiest ways to fail your UK MCA oral exam is showing lack of awareness of Merchant Shipping Notices (MSNs), Marine Guidance Notes (MGNs), and Marine Information Notes (MINs). Examiners expect candidates to know the current operational mandates.
Understanding the Hierarchy
- MSNs (Merchant Shipping Notices): These convey mandatory legal requirements under UK law. Ignoring these can result in direct prosecution or vessel detention.
- MGNs (Marine Guidance Notes): These provide advice and guidance on safety, pollution prevention, and operational procedures. Though technically recommendations, examiners treat them as best practices.
- MINs (Marine Information Notes): These contain temporary administrative or operational information, usually valid for a limited period (e.g., exam syllabus updates).
Crucial M-Notices for Orals
Ensure you are thoroughly familiar with MGN 539 (Crucial guidance on lookouts and collision avoidance), MGN 364 (Navigation in restricted visibility), and the latest updates to safety management system guidelines.
