Which of the following is a hazard associated with handling liquid bulk cargoes?

Handling liquid bulk cargoes presents inherent hazards, and fire and explosion are significant risks due to the flammable nature of many of these substances. Many liquid bulk cargoes are flammable or combustible, meaning that they can easily catch fire if an ignition source is present. This risk is compounded by the potential for vapors to accumulate, which can lead to explosive atmospheres when mixed with air.

The presence of volatile compounds increases the likelihood of fire and explosion during the loading and unloading processes, as well as during transport. Proper procedures, equipment, and safety measures must be in place to mitigate these risks. This includes the use of designated safe zones, monitoring for vapor presence, and having firefighting equipment readily available.

While hazards such as increased pressure, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical failures can also pose risks in handling liquid bulk cargoes, the immediacy and potentially catastrophic nature of fire and explosion make it a primary concern in these operations. Effective training and adherence to safety protocols are essential in minimizing this risk.