What is the minimum PPE requirement for all on board?

• A. A life jacket for the captain only
• B. Weather-appropriate clothing
• C. A properly fitted personal flotation device for everyone on the vessel
• D. A whistle and flashlight

Answer: (C)

Having a properly fitted personal flotation device for everyone on the vessel provides the essential flotation protection needed in an emergency, which is why it represents the minimum PPE on board. A PFD keeps a person afloat, reducing the risk of drowning if someone goes overboard or the boat capsizes, and it should be sized correctly for each wearer and kept in good condition so it works when needed. The captain wearing a life jacket while others don’t leaves people unprotected, weather-appropriate clothing doesn’t prevent sinking, and a whistle plus flashlight are signaling tools, not flotation protection.