Bunkering Operation Pre-Transfer Safety Checklist

Pre-transfer inspection for ship bunkering operations to verify containment, tank capacity, alarm and shutdown readiness, and ship-shore communications before fuel transfer begins.

Inspection Details and Transfer Authorization

• Vessel, berth, product, and transfer plan identified
  Record the vessel name, berth/location, product to be transferred, and planned transfer start time.
• Pre-transfer meeting completed with ship and shore representatives
  Verify that the responsible ship and shore personnel have reviewed the transfer plan, emergency signals, and stop-transfer authority.
• Transfer authorization and permits in place
  Confirm the transfer is authorized under the vessel/terminal procedure and applicable 33 CFR 156 controls.

Containment and Spill Prevention

• Scupper plugs installed and effective
  Confirm all required deck scuppers and drainage openings are properly plugged or otherwise secured to prevent overboard discharge.
• Drip trays, absorbents, and spill response materials staged
  Verify spill containment materials are positioned at hose connections and transfer points and are immediately available for use.
• Deck and transfer area free of oil, water, and slip hazards
  Inspect the bunkering area for standing liquid, loose hoses, trip hazards, or other conditions that could interfere with safe transfer operations.

Tank Capacity and Fill Control

• Receiving tank ullage verified and sufficient
  Enter the available ullage for the receiving tank(s) before transfer starts.
• Planned transfer quantity is within safe tank capacity
  Confirm the planned bunkering quantity will not exceed available capacity or operational limits for the receiving tank(s).
• Tank sounding or gauging method verified
  Verify the method used to monitor tank level during transfer is operational and understood by the responsible watchkeeper.

Alarms, Shutdowns, and Emergency Readiness

• High-level alarm tested and operational
  Confirm the receiving tank high-level alarm has been tested or verified operational before bunkering begins.
• Emergency shutdown valve (ESV) tested or verified ready
  Verify the ESV or equivalent emergency shutdown arrangement is functional and ready for immediate use.
• Emergency stop signal and stop-transfer procedure confirmed
  Confirm both parties understand the emergency stop signal, stop-transfer authority, and immediate response actions.

Ship-Shore Communication and Transfer Controls

• Primary ship-shore communication method established
  Select the primary communication method to be used during transfer.
• Communication test completed successfully
  Verify a two-way communication check was completed and both sides can clearly exchange transfer instructions and emergency stop messages.
• Dedicated watchkeeper assigned on ship and shore
  Confirm a responsible person is assigned to monitor the transfer continuously and maintain communication throughout bunkering.