Question 1186 Deck General

The correct answer is B) An empty (not gas-free) barge that last carried benzene. According to US Coast Guard regulations, any barge that last carried a hazardous cargo, even if empty, must have a cargo information card carried in the pilothouse. This is to provide critical information to the crew about the previous cargo and any potential hazards. Since benzene is a hazardous material, an empty barge that last carried benzene would require this cargo information card, making option B the correct answer. The other options are incorrect because: A) a gas-free chlorine barge would not require a cargo card, C) a tank barge with hazard warning signs may or may not require a card depending on the previous cargo, and D) an open hopper barge carrying coal does not transport a hazardous material, so a cargo card would not be necessary.