To prevent oil from escaping into the sea when ballasting through the cargo piping system, you should FIRST __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — start the cargo pump, then open sea suction valves

Under MARPOL, SOLAS, and USCG Marine Engineering Safety regulations, regarding 'To prevent oil from escaping into the sea when ballasting through the cargo piping system, you should FIRST', the mandated standard is: 'start the cargo pump, then open sea suction valves'.