Basic Tanker Operations Practice Test

MARPOL Annex II uses two linked ideas: a hazard-based classification for the cargoes and a vessel-type framework that matches ship design to those hazards. Noxious liquid substances carried in bulk are divided into four categories that reflect how dangerous they are if discharged, which sets the level of discharge restrictions, tank cleaning, and onboard treatment required. To support safe handling of different cargoes, the Annex also defines three ship types for chemical tankers, describing the vessel’s design and equipment relative to cargo hazard. Type 1 ships carry the most hazardous cargoes and face the strictest discharge and cleaning requirements; Type 3 ships carry the least hazardous cargoes and have the least stringent requirements. Taken together, there are four cargo categories and three ship types.