What steps should be taken if a vessel is not seaworthy during inspection?

When a vessel is found to be unseaworthy during an inspection, the appropriate action is to issue a detention order and require remediation before the vessel departs. This step ensures that the vessel is deemed safe and compliant with maritime safety regulations. It is critical to prioritize the safety of the vessel, its crew, and other maritime users by preventing a potentially hazardous situation.

Issuing a detention order compels the responsible parties to address the deficiencies identified during the inspection, allowing time for necessary repairs or adjustments to be made. This ensures proper compliance with safety standards and mitigates risks associated with operating an unseaworthy vessel.

In contrast, simply advising the captain to proceed with caution would not effectively address the underlying issues that made the vessel unseaworthy in the first place. Completing an inspection and moving on to the next vessel without taking action does not uphold safety regulations or protect public safety. Notifying only the company’s management falls short of ensuring immediate remedial action is taken, as it may delay addressing the vessel’s unseaworthiness and could potentially result in hazardous conditions at sea. Hence, taking decisive action by issuing a detention order is essential for maintaining maritime safety.