USCG Exam PracticePollution prevention and environmental awareness
Under 33 CFR §151.10(g), a chief engineer adds a chemical dispersant to bilge water before processing it through the oily-water separator in order to reduce the measured oil content of the effluent below 15 ppm. Which statement correctly characterizes this action?
- ✓ It is prohibited because no discharge shall contain chemicals introduced for the purpose of circumventing the conditions of dischargeCorrect
- B. It is permitted provided the resulting effluent measures less than 15 ppm without further dilution
- C. It is permitted when the vessel is beyond 12 nautical miles and proceeding enroute
- D. It is permitted provided the chemical is not classified as a noxious liquid substance under Annex II
Why A is correct
33 CFR §151.10(g) expressly prohibits any discharge into the sea that contains chemicals or other substances introduced for the purpose of circumventing the conditions of discharge specified in the regulation. Adding a dispersant to manipulate the measured oil content constitutes exactly this type of circumvention, regardless of the resulting ppm reading or the vessel's position.
Cited:33 CFR §151.10