What is the primary resource a crew should consult for information about hazardous materials onboard?

The primary resource a crew should consult for information about hazardous materials onboard is the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). MSDS documents are designed to provide detailed information about the properties of individual hazardous substances, including their potential hazards, safety precautions, handling instructions, and emergency response measures. These sheets are essential tools for ensuring safety during the handling and use of hazardous materials, as they offer standardized information that can be quickly referenced in case of an incident.

Using MSDS helps crew members understand specific risks associated with each material, as well as the protective measures they should take. This is critical for minimizing exposure and ensuring the safety of the crew and the vessel as a whole.

Shipping manifests, while useful for tracking the movement of hazardous materials, do not provide detailed safety information about the substances. Safety manuals can contain general safety practices, but they may not offer the specific hazard exposure information or emergency procedures for individual chemicals like the MSDS does. Inventory lists provide a count of hazardous materials but lack comprehensive guidance on handling and emergency response. Thus, the MSDS is the most relevant and comprehensive resource for addressing queries about hazardous materials onboard.