🔍 Key Concepts

• International Load Line Convention and how it is applied in the U.S. • Difference between an international rule-making body and a national enforcing/administrative agency. • Role of classification societies (like ABS) versus government authorities.

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Who actually has legal authority in the United States to require and issue load line certificates? Is it an international body, a U.S. government agency, or a private organization acting on behalf of the government? • Think about whether the organization writes global conventions, enforces U.S. law and regulations, or mainly provides technical standards and surveys for ships. • Consider which of these choices can sign an official document that is directly recognized as a U.S. statutory certificate under U.S. law.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which organization is the U.S. flag State authority for safety and load line regulations. • Check which body is mainly responsible for drafting conventions versus implementing them in each country. • Confirm the role of classification societies: do they create the legal requirement, or do they act as agents/recognized organizations for a government authority?