Which organization regulates vessel safety and conducts inspections according to maritime conventions?

The organization responsible for regulating vessel safety and conducting inspections according to maritime conventions is the United States Coast Guard (USCG). The USCG has the primary duty of ensuring the safety of vessels in U.S. waters and enforcing maritime laws based on both domestic and international regulations.

The USCG conducts inspections to ensure that vessels meet safety standards, comply with operating procedures, and follow environmental regulations. This involves adhering to guidelines established by various international conventions, such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). By conducting these inspections, the USCG plays a critical role in preventing maritime accidents and protecting both lives and the marine environment.

While the International Maritime Organization (IMO) creates international safety standards and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) provides classification services and technical expertise, the Coast Guard is the enforcement arm within the U.S. that ensures compliance with those regulations. The Marine Safety Center, while involved in reviewing plans and providing oversight for vessel designs, operates under the Coast Guard and does not have the same broad regulatory authority as the USCG.