What are precaution while Sampling and Gauging of Cargo on tankers ?

When sampling and gauging, the following should be considered:

• Appropriate PPE must be worn;
• The characteristics of the chemical should be considered and the MSDS sheet.
• Samples should be kept in either clear or amber glass bottles with secure lids;
• Manufacturers’ guidance for maintenance of sampling equipment should be followed;
• To avoid contamination, sampling equipment should be kept clean and dry;
• Closed sampling equipment must be tested for electrical continuity and earthed prior to introduction into tanks;
• Anti-static precautions must be taken and cargo relaxation periods observed when dealing with static accumulator products;
• MSDS should be kept with stored samples; and
• All sampling and gauging lines should be made of non-static generating material.

Requirements for taking samples vary. However, it is common for samples to be required as follows:

• Manifold sample at commencement of loading (from each shoreline, if more than one);
• Pump stack sample;
• First foot sample from each tank during loading;
• Final sample from each tank after loading;
• Composite sample of all tanks after loading;
• All tanks before discharge; and
• Composite sample before discharge.
• All samples drawn should be clearly labelled and, together with any samples drawn by the shore inspector, should be securely stored in the vessel’s cargo sample store.

Note:

In order to avoid the dangers of static electricity, all sampling anct gauging  lines should be made of non-static generating material.