Question 55 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Shut down the transfer operation):** During fuel transfer operations (such as bunkering or cargo handling), the primary goal when a safety or pollution hazard is identified is to **immediately stop the source of the danger**. Shutting down the transfer operation—usually by activating the emergency shutdown (ESD) system, stopping pumps, and closing essential valves—is the fastest and most direct action to prevent the hazard from escalating into a major incident (like a spill or a fire). This immediate action minimizes the quantity of fuel involved and allows personnel to assess the situation safely before taking subsequent steps like notification or damage control. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) Close the valves at the transfer manifold:** While closing valves is part of shutting down the operation, it may not be the *fastest* or *most complete* immediate action. The primary action is to stop the flow/pressure (i.e., shut down the pump/transfer), which often happens faster and more reliably via an emergency shutdown system than relying solely on manually closing manifold valves. * **B) Notify the person in charge of the shore facility:** Notification is critical, and it should be done *immediately after* the operation is secured. However, stopping the hazard takes precedence over communication. If you stop to notify first, valuable time is lost, and the hazard (e.g., a small leak) could become a catastrophic event (e.g., a massive spill). * **C) Sound the fire alarm:** The fire alarm is reserved for actual fire emergencies. While a pollution hazard could potentially lead to a fire, sounding the fire alarm for every observed safety hazard or small leak (before fire is confirmed) could cause panic and unnecessary deployment of emergency response resources. The immediate action must be focused on stopping the transfer flow, not automatically escalating to a fire response.