Question 60 TV01 - Towing Vessels - Oceans or Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is D The **Certificate of Inspection (COI)** is the document issued by the regulatory body (in the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard) for inspected vessels. This certificate officially states the minimum safe requirements for the vessel to operate legally. Crucially, the COI specifies the required manning levels, including the minimum number of licensed officers, certificated crew members, and uncertificated personnel (such as able seamen) necessary for the vessel's safe operation and emergency response. --- **Why the other options are incorrect:** A) **Safety of Life at Sea Certificate (SOLAS Certificate):** The SOLAS Convention deals primarily with the safety features, construction, equipment, and fire safety systems of certain international voyaging ships. While it mandates certain safety requirements, it does not specifically prescribe the detailed minimum crew manning level required for operation, which is typically a domestic regulatory function found on the COI. B) **Load Line Certificate:** This certificate specifies the maximum safe draft (depth the hull can sink into the water) to which the vessel can be loaded. It relates to stability and structural integrity under various water conditions but has no bearing on the required number of able seamen or crew members. C) **Operations manual:** The operations manual details the procedures for operating the vessel, handling cargo, emergency protocols, and internal policies. While it describes *how* the crew functions, it is an internal document or a required procedural document and is not the official regulatory document that dictates the **minimum required number** of able seamen mandated by the government.