🔍 Key Concepts

• Load line (Plimsoll mark) purpose and what it regulates • Difference between a classification society and a regulatory agency • Which organizations are authorized by the U.S. government to act on its behalf for surveys and certifications

💭 Think About

• Think about which of these organizations is a U.S. federal regulatory body versus a private classification or inspection organization • Consider who ultimately has legal authority under U.S. law to approve and assign load lines on U.S.-flag vessels, even if they delegate work • Ask yourself: if there is a violation of load line regulations, which agency would enforce it under U.S. law?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option is a U.S. federal government agency • Identify which options are classification societies (private or non-governmental) • Verify who has statutory authority under U.S. law for load line regulations, even if surveys are carried out by others