4. Scan the text to pick out the information about:

a) preparing ship's tanks for receiving a new bunker;

b) getting ship's filling and transfer systems ready for fuelling operations;

c) actions to be taken to avoid an accidental spillage;

d) necessary tools and special devices to ensure safe handling of the fuel hose.

5. Make up phrases which may be used by a Chief Engineer as instructions to a Third Engineer while preparing to receive fuel on board (Model 1), phrases which may be used as reports about the actions already taken (Model 2) or questions to find out how things are going on (Model 3).

Model 1: to sound the tanks > Have you all the tanks sounded accurately?

1. to place the plug securely into the quick closing valve;

2. to empty the aft port tank first;

3. to burn both settlers down to between 4 and 6 feet;

4. to place wooden plugs in all scuppers;

5. to prepare a bag of sawdust and a bag of rags;

6. to test the phones.

Model 2: a) proper wrenches to be provided > Proper size wrenches have been provided.

b) to open all the suction valves > We have opened all the valves on the suction side. (We have all the suction valves opened.)

1. a new gasket for the fuel connection to be prepared;

2. the scuppers to be plugged to prevent any spillage over the ship's side;

3. the settlers to be burnt down to between 4 and 6 feet;

4. the discharge valves of the fuel tanks to be shut and sealed;

5. to take the ullage of the tank which is partially filled;

6. to open the crossover from the filling to the transfer main;

7. to get a proper fire extinguisher ready;

8. to make all the arrangements in accordance with the international requirements.

Model 3: a) to check the filling system > Have you checked the filling system?

b) the discharge valve to be sealed > Is the discharge valve sealed?

1. to get a bag of sawdust ready to prevent spillage;

2. to prepare a block and tackle for hooking up the hose;

3. to place wooden plugs in all scuppers to avoid spillage over the ship's side;

4. to take the necessary fire precautions;

5. the quick closing valve to be securely plugged;

6. the fuel in the settlers to be burnt down to between 4 and 6 feet;

7. all the valves on fuel oil manifold to be opened;

8. the phone connection to be tested.

6. Make up short dialogues between the Chief Engineer and the Third Engineer using phrases from the models above.

Example: – Have the aft tank emptied first.

– We have already done it. And besides I have taken the ullage of the tank which is partially filled.

– Is the quick closing valve securely plugged?

– Certainly.

7. Play out a conversation which might occur between the Chief Engineer and the Third Engineer while discussing preparation for bunkering. Use the words, phrases and ideas from the text and exercises above to discuss what has already been done and what is still left to be done. You may start with the following:

Ch.Eng.:	So, tomorrow we are going to take bunker. The supplier company has confirmed our order for 1100 tons of IFO-180. Have you made all necessary arrangements?
3-d Eng:	Yes, Chief. I know the bunkering boat will be brought alongside our ship by 10 a.m. We have already sounded the aft tanks, emptied the port tank and have its filling and discharge connections checked.
Ch.Eng.:	According to the International requirements you are to have them shut and sealed. …