What is the policy regarding alcohol and drug use during vessel operations?

• A. Permissible with supervisor approval after safety check.
• B. Zero tolerance for operating vessels under the influence; immediate removal from operation.
• C. Tolerance up to a certain blood alcohol limit.
• D. Only illegal drugs are prohibited; alcohol allowed within limits.

Answer: (B)

Operating vessels safely requires being fully alert and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impairment slows reaction times, dulls judgment, and disrupts coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries on the water.

The policy is zero tolerance for operating a vessel under the influence. If there is any indication of impairment, you are removed from operation immediately and may face further disciplinary action. There is no acceptable level of impairment for vessel ops—any amount that affects performance is disallowed.

Why this fits best: allowing any grace period or approval would undermine safety, and tolerating a measurable limit would still permit unsafe impairment. The rule also covers both alcohol and drugs, since both can impair performance and endanger the crew and equipment.