What is the first action an inspector must take upon arrival at a ship?

The first action an inspector takes upon arriving at a ship is to perform a visual inspection of the dock area. This initial step is critical because it allows the inspector to assess the overall environment and identify any potential sanitation issues that could affect the ship's cleanliness and hygiene. Observing the dock area can reveal important information, such as waste management practices, pest control measures, and any visible maintenance issues that may impact the ship's sanitary conditions. This foundational understanding can inform the inspector's subsequent actions and focus areas during the rest of the inspection process.

While meeting with the ship's master and other crew members is important for communication and understanding specific operational protocols, the visual inspection of the dock area is prioritized to ensure a comprehensive assessment begins right away. Setting up inspection equipment and briefing the crew are also vital components of the inspection process, but they typically follow the initial visual assessment to gather situational awareness and context.