Who is the first reviewer of a MISHAP?

The first reviewer of a MISHAP is the Commanding Officer (CO) or Officer in Charge (OINC), or the Executive Officer (XO) or Executive Petty Officer (XPO). This designation emphasizes the leadership role that the CO or OINC and XO or XPO play in the overall safety and operational procedures of a vessel or unit.

By being the first reviewer, they ensure that the incident is thoroughly evaluated from a leadership perspective, which is crucial for understanding the circumstances of the mishap and determining necessary corrections or improvements. Their involvement is critical not only for addressing any immediate safety concerns but also for setting a tone of accountability and a culture of safety within the organization. This initial review is vital for guiding further investigation and ensuring that subsequent steps align with higher-level command directives and best practices.

Other roles, such as the Safety Officer, Chief Engineer, or Department Head, may have important responsibilities in mishap investigations, but their reviews typically occur after the initial assessment by the CO/OINC or XO/XPO. Therefore, while they contribute to the overall analysis and report, the leadership role of the CO/OINC and XO/XPO in the initial review establishes a structured approach to mishap response and fosters a comprehensive safety culture.