Question 64 TV02 - Towing Vessels - Great Lakes and Inland

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation of A (U.S. vessels 26 feet or more in length):** This option is correct based on U.S. federal regulations (specifically 33 CFR § 155.450, concerning pollution prevention regulations). The regulation requires all vessels 26 feet or more in length operating in U.S. navigable waters to display a "Discharge of Oil Prohibited" placard. This placard must be prominently displayed in the machinery spaces, or at the bilge pump control station, or in another conspicuou​s location, reminding the crew and operators that the discharge of oil or oily mixtures is prohibited. **Explanation of why other options are incorrect:** * **B) U.S. vessels less than 26 feet in length:** Vessels under 26 feet in length are generally **not** required to carry the specific "Discharge of Oil Prohibited" placard, although they are still subject to the prohibition on discharging oil. The placard requirement typically starts at the 26-foot threshold. * **C) Foreign vessels not in U.S. navigable waters:** U.S. domestic regulations, including the requirement for specific placards, apply primarily to vessels operating within U.S. navigable waters or Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Vessels entirely outside of U.S. jurisdiction are governed by their flag state's laws and international conventions (like MARPOL). * **D) Foreign vessels when engaged in noncommercial service:** While foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters (regardless of commercial status) are generally subject to U.S. pollution laws, the specific 26-foot placard requirement is primarily directed at U.S. vessels by the domestic regulation referenced (33 CFR § 155.450). Furthermore, the primary defining factor for the placard is vessel size (26 feet or more), not the vessel's flag or commercial status alone. Foreign vessels are often subject to different documentation requirements based on MARPOL Annex I, which is incorporated into U.S. law.