What is the correct first action if you discover a spill or slick surface on deck?

• A. Post a notice in the crew lounge
• B. Call for an immediate drill to handle spill
• C. Warn others, cordon or mark the area, and follow safety protocol to clean it up
• D. Ignore the spill if it's small

Answer: (C)

When you find a spill or slick on deck, safety comes first: tell others about the hazard, block off the area, and start the approved cleanup steps. Alert nearby crew so no one steps into the slick, and set up a visible boundary or warning to keep people out. Then follow the established safety protocol for spills—use the proper absorbents or cleanup materials, wear any required PPE, and dispose of cleanup waste according to procedure. If the spill is beyond what you can handle, report it to a supervisor so additional help can be summoned. Quick, proactive isolation and proper cleanup minimize injuries and prevent the spill from spreading. Posting a notice, organizing a drill, or ignoring the spill do not address the immediate danger and can lead to injuries.