Before taking survivors on board, what should you do to access them?

• A. Rig access methods to your ship (cargo nets, life raft alongside, pilot ladder, etc.)
• B. Abandon ship
• C. Dismiss survivors
• D. Send a helicopter

Answer: (A)

Safe access to both the survivors and the ship must be established before bringing anyone aboard. This means rigging reliable access methods on the vessel—such as a pilot ladder, cargo nets, or a life raft alongside—that are securely set up and ready to use. Having a clear, stable path allows survivors to climb or be assisted aboard without slipping or losing balance, and it lets the crew manage the transfer smoothly with proper lines, handholds, and authority signals. Consider the sea state and visibility, and ensure the transfer area is free of obstacles, everyone wears appropriate PPE like life jackets, and communications with the rescue craft or helicopter are established. Abandoning ship, dismissing survivors, or attempting a transfer without proper access would expose people to unnecessary risk and is not the right approach.