OICEW Task 5.2.B

Ballast a tank

MMA Method

In order to satisfy NVIC 17-14 Task 5.2.B , MMA students must:

NVIC Method

See NVIC method.

STCW Competence Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency

Operate fuel, lubrication, ballast and other pumping systems and associated control systems

OICEW-A5.2 Operation of pumping systems:

Operation of bilge, ballast and cargo pumping systems
Condition Behavior Standard

On a vessel of at least 1,000 HP, on a simulator, or in a laboratory,

the candidate plans for and conducts a ballasting of double- bottom or wing tanks.


All The assessment is required for all OICEW endorsements regardless of any limitations for propulsion mode and/or vessel equipment.

The candidate performs the following actions, and describes them as they are performed:

  1. Lines up the ballast pump suction manifold and/or suction piping to take a suction on an appropriate sea chest;

  2. Lines up the ballast pump discharge manifold and/or piping to direct flow to the ballast tank fill and drain manifold;

  3. Lines up the ballast tank fill and drain manifold to those ballast tanks as directed;

  4. Starts the ballast pump;

  5. Stops the ballast pump when the vessel is brought down to the desired draft marks;

  6. Restores the ballast system piping to normal; and

  7. Takes proper action to prevent safety and pollution violations.