Pumps are mechanical systems that move liquids by increasing fluid pressure to overcome gravity, friction, and system resistance.
Most industrial pumps are centrifugal (rotodynamic) or positive displacement, with roughly 80% being single‑stage, end‑suction centrifugal models used across many shipboard and shore applications.
Proper pumping operations and adherence to procedures for ballasting, deballasting, cargo transfer, and tank washing, are essential for safety, regulatory compliance, and cargo integrity.
Highlights:
The course aims to give participants a solid grounding in pump fundamentals and the practical aspects for ballasting, deballasting, and cargo handling on tanker vessels.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand basic pump design and operation in marine applications and identify associated hazards.
- Comprehend the steps of pumping operations, such as ballasting, deballasting, cargo transfer, and tank washing.
Legislation & References: This course is based on the following references:
1. SOLAS
- Chapter II-2 – Construction – Fire protection, fire detection, and fire extinction
- Regulation 4.5.10: Use of inert gas in cargo and slop tanks (relevant to pump-room safety)
- Regulation 5.5: Protection of spaces containing cargo pumps
- FSS Code
2. MARPOL
Annex I – Oil Pollution
- Regulation 31: Oil discharge monitoring and control systems – requires proper pump line-up and slop control
- Regulation 33: Cargo tank stripping requirements – limits for residual oil (ROB) after discharge
- Regulation 35: Ballast and slop tank management
- Oil Record Book (Part II): Record of all ballasting, deballasting, and slop pumping operations
Annex II – Noxious Liquid Substances (Chemical Carriers)
- Prewash and stripping requirements
- Cargo pump and line cleaning procedures
- Cargo Record Book (CRB) documentation
3. Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC)
- Regulation D-1 and D-2: Ballasting/discharging requirements and treatment
- Requires approved Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP)
- TRO (Total Residual Oxidant) and discharge monitoring (for chemical/electrochlorination systems)
4. ISGOTT, 6th Edition
- Chapter 11: Cargo pumping systems and operations
- Chapter 7 & 8: Ballasting and deballasting procedures
- Pump start-up and shutdown procedures
- Control of static electricity and vapors
- Emergency stop protocols
- Pump-room entry and safety
- Line cleaning and tank stripping best practices
5. IMO circular BWM.2/Circ.80/Rev.1, 24 October 2024: 2024 Guidance on ballast water record-keeping and reporting
Duration: 1 hour.
Who should attend:
- All deck and engine officers and ratings involved in vessel pumping operations.
Certificate: ABS
