Who is responsible for fire safety training aboard a vessel?

Fire safety training aboard a vessel is primarily the responsibility of the ship's master and designated safety officers. This responsibility stems from the leadership roles that the master and safety officers hold in establishing a safety culture and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The ship's master is ultimately in charge of the vessel's operations and the safety of all crew and passengers, which includes implementing fire safety protocols and training. Designated safety officers support the master by facilitating training sessions, conducting safety drills, and ensuring crew members are familiar with emergency procedures and equipment.

Effective fire safety training includes not only understanding theoretical concepts but also hands-on experience with firefighting equipment, knowledge of potential fire hazards onboard, and drills that simulate emergency situations. The master and safety officers are specifically trained and equipped to deliver this essential instruction and to maintain readiness to respond to any fire emergencies that may occur during the vessel's operations.

While the crew members, shipping company management, and navigation officers all play roles in safety, their responsibilities often focus on different aspects of operations, compliance, or navigation rather than the specific delivery of fire safety training.