🔍 Key Concepts

• 46 CFR requirements for unmanned tank barges and portable extinguishers • Purpose of fire protection in the cargo tank area, not just during operations • Whether fire risk exists only during transfer/towing/loading, or whenever flammable cargo is present or possible

💭 Think About

• Think about when a fire could realistically start in the cargo tank area. Is it limited to transfer or towing, or can vapors/ignition sources be present at other times? • Ask yourself if the regulations usually tie safety equipment to a specific operation (like loading only), or if they require continuous protection for hazardous spaces. • Consider whether the rule would make sense if the barge were moored and temporarily idle. Would the cargo tank area suddenly not need extinguishers then?

✅ Before You Answer

• Check if the requirement is tied to a particular condition (e.g., full tanks, transfer, towing) or to the presence of cargo tanks/cargo tank area in general. • Verify whether fire extinguishers are a permanent equipment requirement or a situational/operational one. • Make sure the option you choose would keep the barge protected during all reasonable fire-risk conditions, not just one specific activity.