Charge Barge Examination Practice

Coast Guard Tankerman–Person in Charge (Barge) Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary responsibility of a Tankerman–PIC (Barge) during

cargo transfer?

• Maintain navigation lookout
• Stand engine-room watch
• Assist the cook
• Ensure the safe conduct of the transfer operations

Rationale: The Tankerman–PIC is legally responsible for overseeing and

ensuring the safety of cargo transfer operations.

• What document must be completed prior to starting cargo transfer?
• MARPOL log sheet
• Engine maintenance report 1 / 4

• Declaration of Inspection (DOI)
• Crew muster list

Rationale: The Coast Guard-required DOI confirms all safety conditions and

readiness before transfer begins.

• What is a common hazard associated with petroleum vapors?
• Low toxicity
• High freezing point
• Explosive when mixed with air
• Nonflammable

Rationale: Petroleum vapors can form explosive mixtures with air at

certain concentrations.

• What does LEL stand for?
• Lowest Engine Load
• Lower Explosive Limit
• Liquid Expansion Level
• Level Engineering Log

Rationale: LEL is the lowest vapor concentration in air that can ignite.

• What should be done if cargo hoses show signs of blistering or cracking?
• Continue using at reduced rate
• Flush with water
• Remove from service immediately
• Tape the damaged area 2 / 4

Rationale: Damaged hoses must be removed to prevent leaks or failures

during transfer.

• Bonding and grounding during transfer are used to prevent what

hazard?

• Flooding
• Static electricity ignition
• Engine damage
• Cargo contamination

Rationale: Static discharge can ignite flammable vapors, so

bonding/grounding reduces risk.

• Which cargo property describes its tendency to evaporate?
• Viscosity
• Vapor pressure
• API gravity
• Flash point

Rationale: Vapor pressure indicates how readily a liquid forms vapors.

• When must the PIC be physically present during transfer?
• Only during hose connection
• At all times throughout the transfer
• Only during topping-off
• Only when notified by the captain

Rationale: Regulations require a PIC on station for the entire transfer. 3 / 4

• A closed loading system reduces what hazard?
• Vessel vibration
• Vapor releases
• Cargo oxidation
• Water intrusion

Rationale: Closed loading reduces vapor emissions and minimizes fire risk.

• What is the purpose of a vapor recovery system?
• Increase pumping rate
• Wash cargo tanks
• Prevent release of hydrocarbons into the atmosphere
• Cool cargo

Rationale: Vapor recovery captures vapors, reducing pollution and fire

hazards.

• What does the flash point of a liquid describe?
• Temperature where cargo freezes
• Temperature where cargo boils
• Temperature at which vapors can ignite
• Temperature where vapor pressure is zero

Rationale: Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid emits

ignitable vapors.

• Which PPE is required during cargo hose connection?
• / 4