If a piece of equipment has been tampered with, who must approve the resuming of normal operations?

Resuming normal operations after tampering with a piece of equipment requires the approval of the Commanding Officer (CO) because they hold overall responsibility for the safety, security, and operational integrity of the facility or vessel. The CO must ensure that all safety protocols have been followed and that operational readiness is restored without risk to personnel or equipment.

In situations involving tampering, it is critical for the CO to be informed and involved in the decision-making process to mitigate any potential hazards that could arise from resuming operations. Other positions, like the Chief Engineer, Engineering Officer, or Safety Officer, may have important roles in inspecting or assessing the equipment, but the ultimate authority to approve the resumption of normal operations lies with the Commanding Officer. Their leadership ensures that all regulatory and safety guidelines are adhered to, which helps maintain a safe working environment.