Who is responsible for assessing damage and examining the scene of casualty on a ship?

The investigator is tasked with assessing damage and examining the scene of a casualty on a ship. This role is critical as it involves a thorough and impartial examination of the incident to determine the cause and contributing factors. The investigator typically possesses specialized training in accident analysis and is responsible for gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting the scene, which ensures that the findings are credible and can inform future safety measures.

While the captain plays a pivotal role in the overall management and safety of the vessel, including initiating emergency protocols and ensuring crew safety, the in-depth examination of the incident is best handled by someone specifically trained for that purpose. Similarly, the chief engineer focuses on the technical aspects and operations of the ship's machinery and systems, while the safety officer primarily oversees safety protocols and compliance on board but may not have the specialized investigative training required for scene analysis after a casualty.