🔍 Key Concepts

• Manning requirements for U.S.-flag vessels (who sets minimum numbers and qualifications of crew) • Role of the flag state (United States) versus international bodies like the IMO • Difference between a regulatory authority and a classification society

💭 Think About

• Which organization actually issues licenses, endorsements, and approves crew manning levels on U.S. vessels? • Which of these choices creates and enforces U.S. federal regulations, as opposed to setting broad international standards or technical construction rules? • Who signs off on the vessel’s Certificate of Inspection (COI) or manning document that lists required able seamen and lifeboatmen?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option is a U.S. federal regulatory agency for maritime safety and manning • Distinguish between international standard-setting (IMO) and national enforcement (flag state) • Recognize that classification societies (like ABS) focus mainly on ship construction and class rules, not statutory crew manning numbers