How many life jackets should there be on a commercial vessel?

The correct answer is that there should be one life jacket for every person on board a commercial vessel. This requirement is in line with safety regulations to ensure that all individuals on the vessel have access to a properly fitting and properly maintained life jacket in case of an emergency. This is crucial because in the event of an emergency situation, such as abandoning the ship or a capsizing, each person must have immediate access to a life jacket to enhance their chances of survival in water.

Providing a life jacket for every person ensures that everyone, including crew members, passengers, and any other individuals on board, can quickly don a life jacket without delay. It supports the principle of maximizing safety and preparedness in maritime operations, as personal flotation devices are a vital component of survival at sea. Regulations and industry best practices emphasize the need for this level of preparedness, making it an essential aspect of maritime safety compliance.