Which vessel type requires a Crude Oil Washing Manual?

• A. A Bulk Carrier
• B. A Container Ship
• C. A Passengers Vessel
• D. A Tanker

Answer: (D)

Crude oil washing is a specialized tank-cleaning method used on ships that carry crude oil in their cargo tanks. Because it involves circulating the crude oil itself through the tanks and using high-pressure lines, it presents significant fire, environmental, and safety risks. To manage these risks, vessels that operate crude oil washing must have a Crude Oil Washing Manual on board. This manual lays out the exact procedures, sequence of washing, required equipment and connections, safety measures, venting and inerting steps, handling of washings, and who is responsible for each action. It also covers regulatory approvals and how to verify that the system is operated correctly and safely.

Other vessel types—bulk carriers, container ships, and passenger vessels—do not routinely perform crude oil washing, so they do not require this specific manual. Their tank-cleaning procedures, if needed, are different and tailored to the cargos they carry, which is why the Crude Oil Washing Manual is specific to tankers that transport crude oil.