What is the first action you should take to prevent oil from escaping into the sea when ballasting through the cargo piping system?

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

To prevent accidental pollution when ballasting through cargo systems, starting the cargo pump first establishes positive pressure outward, preventing contaminated cargo in the lines from back-siphoning or escaping overboard when sea suction valves are opened.