Exam Question

### (a) Purpose of an Oil Record Book (ORB)
The Oil Record Book (ORB), as required by MARPOL 73/78 Annex I, serves as a mandatory, official, and chronological log of all oil-related operations within machinery spaces (Part I) and cargo/ballast operations for oil tankers (Part II). Its primary purposes are:
1. **Demonstrating Compliance**: To provide documentary evidence that the ship is adhering to the regulations of MARPOL Annex I concerning the handling and disposal of oil and oily residues. It is a key document reviewed during Port State Control (PSC), Flag State, and Class society audits.
2. **Pollution Prevention and Accountability**: By meticulously recording every transfer, discharge, or disposal of oil, the ORB promotes operational discipline among the crew, thereby preventing intentional or accidental pollution. In the event of an investigation, it serves as a legal record to establish the sequence of events.