What is a crucial step a boarding officer must take regarding hazardous materials onboard?

A crucial step for a boarding officer when dealing with hazardous materials onboard is to ensure compliance with handling regulations. This requirement is integral to maintaining safety and security on vessels. By adhering to established regulations, a boarding officer helps to mitigate potential risks associated with hazardous materials, such as spills, fires, or exposure to toxic substances. These regulations detail not only the proper identification and labeling of hazardous materials but also the guidelines for their storage, transport, and handling while onboard.

This careful adherence is necessary not just from a legal perspective but also for the safety of the crew, passengers, and the environment. Compliance ensures that all dangerous substances are managed appropriately, reducing the likelihood of incidents that could lead to harmful consequences.

In contrast, allowing all hazardous materials onboard, storing them in unsecured areas, or removing them immediately does not address the critical need for safe handling and might violate regulations designed to protect life and property at sea.