Question 3180 Deck General

The correct answer is C) Master of the vessel. The master of the vessel is legally responsible for ensuring that all members of the crew, including able seamen, have the proper documentation and qualifications required by law and regulation. This responsibility is outlined in various USCG regulations, such as 46 CFR 15.405, which states that the master is responsible for the "employment and discharge of the crew." The master must verify that all crew members, including able seamen, meet the necessary requirements before they are permitted to serve on the vessel. The other options are incorrect because the company's personnel director (A) and the owner or operator (B) do not have the direct responsibility for the crew's qualifications, and the USCG Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection (D) is responsible for enforcing the regulations, not ensuring the crew's compliance on a specific vessel.