What is the role of the duty officer during inspections?

The role of the duty officer during inspections is primarily to ensure compliance and facilitate the inspection process. This involves overseeing that all regulations and standards are met throughout the inspection, which includes making sure that documentation is complete and accurate, that the crew is prepared to answer questions, and that all areas of the vessel are accessible for inspection.

In this capacity, the duty officer acts as a mediator between the inspection team and the crew, helping to streamline communication, provide necessary information, and ensure a smooth and efficient inspection process. This responsibility is critical for confirming that the vessel adheres to safety and operational standards, thereby protecting both the crew and the environment.

Supervising the inspection team, handling communications with port authorities, and maintaining the vessel's documentation are important tasks, but they are not the primary functions of the duty officer during inspections. The focus on compliance and facilitation encompasses these duties while highlighting the proactive role of the duty officer in representing the vessel's interests during the inspection process.