What is NOT a precaution to be taken when topping off?

Notifying the engine room of the procedure is not considered a standard precaution during the topping-off process. While it's crucial for overall safety and communication on board, the specific precautions during topping off are primarily focused on maintaining safety at the loading point to prevent spills and overfilling.

Reducing the loading rate is important to manage the flow of the cargo and ensure that the process can be carefully monitored. It helps in identifying any changes or issues in the operation, allowing for a timely response if necessary. Maintaining communications with the dock man ensures that there is a clear line of communication regarding the loading status and can help prevent accidents. Giving the operation undivided attention emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and aware of any potential hazards during the topping-off process, which is critical because the risk of spills and other issues increases when the tank level approaches its maximum capacity.

In summary, while all involved parties must be aware of procedures and readiness during loading operations, the focus on immediate actions related to cargo transfer makes the requirement to notify the engine room less critical as a precaution specifically when topping off tanks.