Vapour-hose support and securing at buoy moorings
What is being checked
For an applicable oil tanker vapour return system intended for buoy-mooring use, the inspector is checking whether the manifold support, hose rails, securing fittings and drainage arrangements can safely handle and hang off the floating vapour hose.
Ready onboard
0/8 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1Show the intended lead and hang-off arrangement for the floating vapour hose.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
2How is the strength of the vapour-manifold support demonstrated?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
3Identify the closed chock, cruciform bollard and two securing pad-eyes.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
4Show the SWL marking on each fitting used for hose securing.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
5How is liquid drained from the lowest point before connecting the vapour hose?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
Where an observation may arise
The vapour manifold is not supported to the same strength standard as the cargo manifold.
Rails do not extend beyond the manifold, lack consistent strength or have missing stopper plates.
A required closed chock, cruciform bollard or deck pad-eye is absent.
A hose-securing fitting lacks a permanent SWL marking.
No effective means exists to drain the vapour manifold and prevent liquid carry-over.
The physical arrangement is not accurately shown in the mooring arrangement plan.
Master's practical note
Trace the floating-hose load path from ship's side to the manifold. Every point used to support or secure the hose should be intentional, marked and shown on the plan. Improvised use of an unverified fitting is not corrected by a good hose-handling procedure.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: This question applies only to the vapour return arrangement described by the source guidance. Dimensions, strength and the approved hose-handling lead must be verified from vessel plans and certificates.
References
- OCIMF/CDI Recommendations for Oil and Chemical Tanker Manifolds and Associated Equipment, sections 5 and 9
- Vessel mooring arrangement plan
- ISM Code section 10.1
Last reviewed: 2026-08-11