What does the red light on a tankship indicate?

The red light on a tankship specifically indicates the presence of an overfill alarm. This alert is crucial for the safe operation of oil and chemical tankers, as it warns the crew that the tanks are nearing their maximum capacity. When the level of the liquid in a tank approaches the top, the overfill alarm activates to prevent any overflow, which could result in environmental hazards, financial losses, or violations of safety regulations.

In contrast, other indicators such as low fuel levels, high water levels, or fluid leak detection are typically represented by different alarms or lights, which have distinct signaling functions to alert the crew about those specific conditions. Understanding these signals is vital for maintaining safety and operational efficiency aboard tankships.