What should be the primary consideration when dealing with a cargo tank overfill alarm?

The primary consideration when dealing with a cargo tank overfill alarm should be to ensure immediate shutdown. This action is critical as it serves to prevent a potentially dangerous situation arising from the tank overflowing. Overfilling can lead to cargo spillage, which not only poses a risk to the environment but can also create hazardous conditions for personnel on board the vessel.

When an overfill alarm is triggered, it indicates that the cargo level has reached a point where it is at risk of overflowing. Immediate shutdown of the cargo transfer process is necessary to halt the influx of cargo into the tank, thereby preventing spillage. Ensuring the safety and integrity of the cargo tank and surrounding areas is paramount in this situation.

Other considerations like checking fuel levels, initiating cargo transfer, or inspecting the tank structure may be important in various operational contexts, but they do not take precedence when an overfill alarm sounds. In emergencies involving overfilling, the focus must be on immediate corrective actions to protect both the vessel and its personnel.