🔍 Key Concepts

• 46 CFR requirements for fuel systems on small passenger vessels • Purpose and operation of water traps/strainers in diesel fuel systems • How the Coast Guard treats drains/outlets that can release fuel with respect to fire and pollution risk

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: if this drain is opened accidentally, where could fuel or fuel/water mix realistically end up? Inside the boat, overboard, or back to a safe collection point? • Which option best reduces both fire hazard inside the vessel and pollution risk outside the vessel? • Think about whether drains on fuel systems are usually required to be positively controlled and safely routed, or can they simply be allowed to flow by gravity wherever they lead.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify what 46 CFR says about fuel system drains and sumps on small passenger vessels (Subchapter T/K as applicable). • Check whether any overboard or hull-penetrating connections are specifically mentioned for fuel drains from traps/strainers. • Confirm if there is any requirement that such drains be at the lowest point of the tank or driven only by gravity flow, or if that sounds more like a distractor.