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Maritime Compliance 15 items

Bunkering Operation Safety Checklist

Pre-, during-, and post-transfer checks for safe fuel bunkering to prevent spills and ensure fuel quality documentation under MARPOL and the ISM Code.

MARPOL Annex IMARPOL Annex VIISM Code

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Pre-Transfer Preparations

  • Has a pre-transfer meeting/agreement been completed with the supplier on rate, sequence, and emergency signals? *
  • Are scuppers plugged and drip trays/save-alls in place under all connection points? *
  • Is the SOPEP equipment ready and the spill response plan reviewed before transfer? *
  • Are tank soundings/ullages taken and confirmed sufficient space with an agreed maximum fill level? *
  • Is the bunker hose/loading arm certified, in good condition, and correctly connected with drip trays? *

Communications and Safety Precautions

  • Is effective communication established between the ship and the barge/terminal for the duration? *
  • Are no-smoking and no-naked-flame rules enforced and warning signals/flags displayed? *
  • Are firefighting appliances positioned and ready near the bunker station? *

During Transfer

  • Is a continuous watch maintained at the bunker station and tank soundings monitored throughout? *
  • Is a representative fuel sample being drawn continuously at the ship's manifold (MARPOL sample)? *
  • Enter the agreed maximum transfer rate (m3/h).

Completion and Documentation

  • Have lines been drained/blown, valves closed, and connections blanked before disconnecting? *
  • Is a Bunker Delivery Note received and retained on board for at least 3 years? *
  • Is the sealed MARPOL fuel sample retained on board for at least 12 months? *
  • Is the bunkering operation recorded in the Oil Record Book Part I? *

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