Exam Question

(a) The purpose of cofferdams is to prevent leakage of one tank or double bottom to another ie, there would be a cofferdam between fuel tanks and freshwater tanks. They also allow for the inspection of tanks, cofferdams should also be sounded regularly to check for leaks.
(b) ( i) On dry cargo vessels, cofferdams would be found between fuel tanks and cargo, ballast tanks and cargo, also found around the main engine LO drain tank.
(ii) On oil tankers, cofferdams would be found between the oil cargo tanks and the accommodation or engine room, in some cases this can be the pump room, also there will be a cofferdam around the main engine LO drain tank.
(c) Cofferdam is an enclosed space. So, the Enclosed space entry procedure is to be followed.