What minimum protective clothing must be worn while sampling hazardous cargo on a tankship?

When sampling hazardous cargo on a tankship, the minimum protective clothing required is a facemask or goggles. This is primarily because sampling hazardous materials can result in exposure to harmful vapors, fumes, or liquid splashes that could pose a significant risk to the eyes and respiratory system.

Facemasks and goggles serve to protect these vulnerable areas from hazardous substances that can cause serious health issues if inhaled or if they make contact with the eyes. It is essential for personnel to shield themselves as even brief exposure to toxic substances can lead to acute or chronic health effects.

Other pieces of protective gear, such as full body suits, safety boots, or gloves, may provide additional protection depending on the nature of the cargo and the specific hazards present, but they are not considered the minimum requirement for sampling. The minimum protective measure emphasizes the importance of immediate and essential protection for the most critical areas affected during cargo sampling.