What should a boarding officer do if they find safety violations on a vessel?

A boarding officer's primary responsibility is to ensure safety and compliance with regulations on the vessel. When safety violations are identified, the correct course of action is to recommend corrective actions that address the issues immediately and effectively. This may include detailing the specific safety deficiencies and advising the vessel's crew on how to rectify them.

Additionally, the boarding officer has the authority to detain the vessel if the violations are serious enough to pose an imminent threat to safety. This process is crucial to ensure that all safety protocols are adhered to before operations can resume. Detaining the vessel serves as a critical measure to prevent potential accidents or hazards associated with ongoing unsafe practices.

The importance of this response lies in the boarding officer's role as a safety enforcer, prioritizing the well-being of individuals onboard the vessel as well as public safety. Therefore, the ability to recommend corrective actions and detain a vessel is fundamental for maintaining maritime safety standards.