Whose responsibility is it to provide safety information required in the event of spillage of harmful substances in packaged form?

• A. The Port Authority
• B. The Shippers of the substance
• C. The Vessel Master
• D. The Manufacturer

Answer: (B)

The safety information required in a spill from packaged dangerous goods is the shipper’s responsibility because they are the ones who know exactly what substance is being shipped, how it is packaged, and what hazards it presents. The shipper prepares and supplies the transport documentation and emergency information that accompanies the cargo—such as the dangerous goods declaration and the safety data sheet or equivalent emergency guidance. This information tells responders and the vessel crew what the material is, what hazards to expect, how to contain a spill, what personal protective equipment to wear, and what first aid or decontamination steps are needed. The vessel master uses this information on board to plan a safe response and to coordinate with authorities if needed. While port authorities enforce rules and the manufacturer may provide input, the transport-specific safety information that guides spill response comes from the shipper.