Your vessel is taking on cargo oil when a small leak develops in the hose. You order the pumping stopped. What action should you take before you resume pumping?

Correct Answer: Option B — replace the hose

Integrity of the transfer system is paramount. Under 33 CFR 156.170, hoses must be maintained in good condition. A leaking hose indicates structural failure or degradation; patching is insufficient for high-pressure oil transfer. Replacing the hose is the only safe, regulatory-compliant method to ensure no further pollution occurs.