USCG Exam PracticePollution prevention and environmental awareness
Under 33 CFR §151.10, a vessel more than 12 nautical miles from the nearest land is NOT proceeding enroute. Which discharge standard governs any discharge of oily mixtures from that vessel's machinery space bilges?
- A. The vessel may discharge freely since it is beyond 12 nautical miles
- ✓ The vessel must meet the same conditions as if it were within 12 nautical miles, including the 15 ppm bilge alarm requirementCorrect
- C. The vessel may discharge provided the oil content is less than 100 ppm and oily-water separating equipment is in operation
- D. The vessel must retain all oily mixtures on board until it is again proceeding enroute
Why B is correct
33 CFR §151.10(d) states that when more than 12 nautical miles from the nearest land and not proceeding enroute, any discharge of oil or oily mixtures must comply with the conditions of §151.10(b)(1), (b)(2), (b)(3), (b)(4), and (b)(5), which are the same conditions applicable within 12 nautical miles, including the 15 ppm bilge alarm requirement. The enroute exception of §151.10(a) does not apply.
Cited:33 CFR §151.10