Question 57 GLI03 - Master-LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for A (when transferring cargo):** Portable fire extinguishers are required on unmanned tank barges primarily to address potential fire hazards that arise during the most critical and high-risk operation: **transferring cargo** (loading or unloading petroleum products or other flammable liquids). During cargo transfer operations, there is the highest risk of spills, leaks, and the presence of flammable vapors, necessitating immediate access to firefighting equipment. This requirement is mandated by Coast Guard regulations (specifically, 46 CFR 34.60-20), which require specific fire-extinguishing equipment to be readily available during cargo operations. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) if one or more tanks are full:** Fire safety requirements are not determined solely by the volume of cargo present (unless related to specific regulations for residue or gas-free conditions). The need for fire extinguishers is operational, focusing on high-risk activities, not static capacity. **C) only when fully loaded:** Similar to B, the state of being fully loaded is not the defining factor for requiring firefighting equipment. The operational risk (transferring cargo) is the key trigger, regardless of whether the barge is completely full or nearly empty. **D) only when the barge is being towed:** While towing introduces certain risks, the requirement for portable fire extinguishers for the *cargo tank area* is specifically tied to cargo handling operations. When the barge is simply being towed and no cargo is being transferred, the operational risk related to the cargo tank area is significantly lower than during transfer operations.