When you are transferring fuel oil to the settling tanks, precautions to be observed should include __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — sounding the tanks frequently and reducing the transfer rate as the level approaches maximum fill

Frequent sounding and reducing the transfer rate while nearing maximum tank capacity prevent accidental overpressurization and pollution. Under MARPOL and 33 CFR/46 CFR guidelines, topping off requires heightened vigilance to eliminate environmental oil spills resulting from thermal expansion or miscalculated tank levels.