Who is responsible for appointing persons in command of lifeboats and liferafts on a MODU?

• A. The Master
• B. The designated person in charge
• C. The Safety Officer
• D. The Coast Guard

Answer: (B)

On a MODU, the person responsible for appointing those in command of lifeboats and liferafts is the designated person in charge. This role exists within the safety management framework of SOLAS and the ISM Code, and it is specifically tasked with ensuring life-saving arrangements are properly staffed, trained, and ready. By designating who will command each lifeboat or liferaft, the DPIC creates a clear chain of command for abandon-ship procedures and drills, and ensures those individuals have the necessary qualifications and competence.

The Master still holds overall responsibility for the vessel and its crew, especially in an emergency, but the formal appointment of lifeboat and liferaft commanders is handled by the designated person in charge to maintain accountability within the safety management system. The Safety Officer focuses on safety program oversight rather than on-site command appointments, and the Coast Guard is the regulator, not the onboard appointing authority.