Who defines the minimum towing team size in congested areas?

Who defines the minimum towing team size in congested areas?

• A. Commanding officer
• B. Flight deck supervisor
• C. Ground controller
• D. Safety officer

Answer: (A)

The commanding officer has the final say over safety and operating procedures for shipboard operations. In congested towing situations, establishing the minimum crew required to safely manage lines, spot hazards, communicate effectively, and respond to emergencies is a safety policy decision that the CO authorizes and documents in the ship’s procedures. The flight deck supervisor, ground controller, and safety officer play roles in planning, supervising, and advising, but they do not set the mandatory crew size—that authority rests with the CO.

The commanding officer has the final say over safety and operating procedures for shipboard operations. In congested towing situations, establishing the minimum crew required to safely manage lines, spot hazards, communicate effectively, and respond to emergencies is a safety policy decision that the CO authorizes and documents in the ship’s procedures. The flight deck supervisor, ground controller, and safety officer play roles in planning, supervising, and advising, but they do not set the mandatory crew size—that authority rests with the CO.