Which activity is part of HF checks on deck?

• A. Observer inside and outside, PA call to crew, anti-collision lights on.
• B. Operate at frequencies below 1 Hz.
• C. Turn off all lights.
• D. Disconnect the antenna.

Answer: (A)

HF checks on deck are about safety and coordinated readiness during radio operations. The best practice is to have an observer both inside and outside the area, issue a public address to alert the crew that a transmission or test is underway, and keep the anti-collision lights on. Having an observer inside and outside helps spot hazards and moving equipment, the PA call warns everyone on deck and in surrounding areas, and the anti-collision lights ensure the vessel remains visible to other ships, reducing collision risk, especially at night or in poor visibility.

The other options don’t fit the safety and operational goals of HF checks: operating at frequencies below 1 Hz isn’t a standard radio practice and wouldn’t address deck safety; turning off all lights would create hazards and reduce awareness; disconnecting the antenna would defeat the purpose of maintaining and testing communications.