As First Engineer, you are standing by the #3 deep fuel oil storage tank as a crew member is working inside the tank. Before entering the tank, the atmosphere was checked and determined safe for men to work. While standing by you notice that the crew member is not moving. After attempts to communicate with the downed mariner receive no response, what action would you take?

Correct Answer: Option C — Have additional crew members don a SCBA to enter the tank, to aid in the removal of the unconscious crew member.

Confined space rescue protocols strictly prohibit entering hazardous atmospheres without self-contained breathing apparatus. Because the downed mariner likely succumbed to oxygen depletion or toxic gases, rescue personnel must don SCBA equipment immediately to prevent multiple casualties.