Who is responsible for correcting especially hazardous conditions on a vessel?

The operator of the vessel is responsible for correcting especially hazardous conditions because they are in charge of the day-to-day management and operation of the vessel. This role includes ensuring that the vessel is safe and seaworthy, adhering to all safety regulations and protocols to mitigate any hazardous situations. The operator is usually the person who has the authority to address issues that arise during operations and can take immediate action to rectify conditions that may pose risks to the crew, passengers, or the environment.

While the owner of the vessel has an overarching responsibility for the vessel's compliance with safety standards and may be accountable for long-term safety measures and maintenance, the operator is the one who is directly engaged with the vessel's operation and is thus the most relevant person to correct hazardous conditions on board. Coast Guard officers do have oversight and regulatory authority but are not responsible for the immediate correction of hazards unless they are performing an enforcement or inspection role. Passengers do not have any responsibility to correct hazardous conditions; their role is primarily to be informed and compliant with safety procedures established by the crew.