- With reference to bunkering of marine diesel oil:
(a) explain why the suppliers’ tanks should be dipped prior to and after receiving fuel;(4)
(b) explain what is meant by a letter of protest, and when it must be issued;(4)
(c) state the person responsible for issuing the letter of protest.(2)
Bunkering of Marine Diesel Oil
(a) Why suppliers’ tanks should be dipped before and after receiving fuel (4 marks)
- Before bunkering: To confirm the initial quantity in the supplier’s tanks and avoid being charged for fuel not delivered.
- After bunkering: To establish the final quantity remaining and calculate the actual amount supplied.
- This ensures an accurate cross-check against delivery documents and prevents disputes or short delivery.
(b) Letter of Protest – meaning and when issued (4 marks)
- A letter of protest is a formal written statement used to record dissatisfaction or disagreement during bunkering operations.
- It must be issued when:
- There is a short delivery of fuel compared with agreed figures.
- The fuel supplied does not meet agreed specification (e.g. sulphur content, viscosity).
- Safety/environmental breaches occur during bunkering (e.g. spillage).
- It protects the shipowner’s legal position in the event of disputes.
(c) Person responsible for issuing the letter of protest (2 marks)
- The Master of the vessel (or a delegated chief engineer, but always under the Master’s authority).