When should a vessel conduct a safety drill?

A vessel should conduct safety drills at regular intervals and during crew changes because this practice ensures that the crew remains prepared for emergency situations at all times. Frequent drills help to reinforce training, familiarize all crew members with safety procedures and equipment, and ensure that new personnel are adequately trained in emergency protocols. Regularly scheduled drills can significantly enhance crew readiness and confidence, thus helping to mitigate risks during real emergencies.

Conducting drills only during calm weather or solely when there is a perceived danger would limit preparedness and could lead to inadequate response actions in an actual emergency. Furthermore, performing drills just once a year is insufficient for maintaining a high standard of safety readiness, as skills can diminish over time without practice. Consistent training fosters an environment of safety awareness, making it essential for vessels to uphold a routine schedule for safety drills.