What is the distance guideline for hazmat discharge?

• A. None <12NM
• B. Less than 5 NM
• C. More than 30 NM
• D. No discharge allowed

Answer: (A)

Hazmat discharges at sea are regulated to protect coastal areas, so the rule is to perform any discharge only when the vessel is at least 12 nautical miles away from land. That way, if anything is released, it has a much greater distance to dilute and disperse, reducing potential harm to shorelines and marine life. The phrase reflecting this rule — that there is none allowed closer than 12 nautical miles — matches this standard, meaning discharges inside 12 NM are not permitted. In practice, beyond 12 NM, discharges may be allowed if the waste meets required effluent standards and proper equipment and procedures are used, with records kept as required.