West Coast Groundfish Observer Program Manual, Part2 - NOAA

CHAPTER 8
Vessel Safety Orientation Checklist
The Vessel Safety Orientation Checklist is designed to
facilitate the initial safety check. Always verify all the items on
the checklist before embarking on a vessel for the first time.
Write thorough comments on any items that are unavailable,
unsafe or look inadequate. Always advise a coordinator
immediately of any unsafe situation and NEVER leave on a
vessel that you do not feel is safe.
Checklist of Vessel Safety Equipment
1. Check for safety inspection documentation. Look
for a current USCG Commercial Fishing Vessel
Safety Examination decal. These decals are valid for
two years from the month issued, indicated with the
hole punch (See Figure 8-2).
Figure 8-2: USCG Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety
Examination Decal
2. Find the station billet (commonly called the station
“bill”), a posted placard describing the role of all
hands on board (including the Observer) in an
emergency.
8-4 1/30/2004