FREE Tanker Familiarization Tanker Safety Systems Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the primary function of an Inert Gas System (IGS) on board an oil tanker?

Accepted Answer

To render the cargo tank atmosphere non-flammable by reducing the oxygen content.

Answer

To provide a breathable atmosphere for tank entry and inspection.

Answer

To pressurize cargo for faster discharge operations.

Answer

To prevent tank corrosion by removing moisture.

Question 2

During cargo discharge, the liquid level in a tank drops, which can create a vacuum. Which safety device automatically allows air or inert gas to enter the tank to prevent structural damage from under-pressure?

Accepted Answer

Pressure/Vacuum (P/V) valve

Answer

High-velocity vent valve

Answer

Emergency Shutdown (ESD) push-button

Answer

Overfill alarm sensor

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the distinction between a high-level alarm and an overfill alarm on a chemical tanker?

Accepted Answer

The high-level alarm is a pre-warning (e.g., at 95% full), while the overfill alarm is a final warning (e.g., at 98% full) that may trigger a shutdown.

Answer

The high-level alarm is audible, while the overfill alarm is only a visual warning.

Answer

The high-level alarm activates at 98% capacity and the overfill alarm at 95%.

Answer

They are two terms for the same alarm system, which is activated when the tank is completely full.

Question 4

A cofferdam on a tanker is a specific type of void space. What is its main safety purpose?

Accepted Answer

To isolate tanks containing incompatible substances or to separate cargo tanks from non-cargo areas.

Answer

To provide additional cargo carrying capacity in an emergency.

Answer

To serve as a primary location for storing firefighting equipment.

Answer

To act as a soundproofing barrier between the engine room and accommodation.

Question 5

In the event of a major cargo hose failure or fire at the manifold during transfer operations, which system is designed to quickly stop the flow of cargo in a controlled manner?

Accepted Answer

The Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system

Answer

The Inert Gas System (IGS)

Answer

The main engine trip

Answer

The tank venting system

Question 6

On a chemical tanker, the cargo tank high-level alarm (95%) and overfill alarm (98%) are required to be two separate and independent systems. Why is this independence crucial for safety?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that a single component failure cannot disable both the primary warning and the final protection against a tank overflow.

Answer

To reduce the overall cost of the alarm installation.

Answer

To allow one system to be taken offline for maintenance during cargo operations.

Answer

To comply with regulations that require different alarm sounds for each level.