Question 64 OSV02 - Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** Option D, "A means to stop each pump near the discharge outlet," is correct because it is a fundamental safety and operational requirement for fixed piping systems used to discharge oily ballast or residues to shore facilities, particularly on vessels under MARPOL Annex I regulations (which cover oil pollution prevention). The requirement ensures that the operator has immediate control over the pumping process at the point of connection. If a spill occurs, a coupling fails, or an overpressure situation arises during the transfer operation, the operator standing at the accessible deck outlet must be able to instantly shut down the flow by stopping the pump, thereby minimizing pollution. This remote stopping capability is a mandatory design feature for such transfer systems. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) A containment capacity for at least 5 gallons at the tank vents:** While spill prevention is crucial, mandatory regulations concerning fixed piping systems for shore discharge focus on the discharge point itself, not specifically mandating a fixed 5-gallon containment capacity at the tank vents (which are typically unrelated to the discharge piping header). This is not a specific regulatory requirement for the discharge system. * **B) At least two pumps that may be put in line:** Operational redundancy (having two pumps) is good practice, but the regulation for the fixed piping system does not universally mandate a minimum of two pumps to be put *in line* for this specific transfer purpose. Many smaller vessels or systems may use a single dedicated transfer pump or multipurpose pump. * **C) At least two outlets accessible from the weather deck:** While larger vessels often have outlets on both sides for flexibility, the regulatory requirement for the shore discharge connection system is to have at least **one** designated standard flange connection that is accessible from the weather deck. Requiring a minimum of two is not a universal mandatory standard.