Which individual is ultimately responsible for managing safety onboard?

The individual ultimately responsible for managing safety onboard a vessel is the Safety Officer. This role is critical in ensuring that all safety protocols are established, communicated, and followed throughout the ship. The Safety Officer oversees the implementation of safety regulations, conducts safety drills, and ensures that safety equipment is readily available and maintained. Their primary focus is on promoting a culture of safety among all crew members and ensuring compliance with both naval standards and regulations.

While other positions like the Divisional Safety Petty Officer and Medical Officer contribute to safety and emergency preparedness, their responsibilities are typically more specialized or limited to specific aspects of safety. The Commanding Officer, while having overall authority on board, relies on the Safety Officer for the detailed management and execution of safety programs. Therefore, the Safety Officer's role is pivotal in creating a safe operational environment onboard naval vessels.