During each routine buoy visit, what action should be performed?

• A. No action required
• B. Position should be checked each time it is visited and on/off station
• C. Only check if maintenance overdue
• D. Check only if there is a label issue

Answer: (B)

Regular checks of a buoy’s position and its on/off station status are essential because a buoy is an aid to navigation and its placement directly affects the accuracy of the information mariners rely on. During every routine visit you should verify that the buoy is at its charted position and confirm whether it is on its station (properly in place) or off station (not at the designated position). This quick check helps catch drift from currents, storms, or snagging, and it allows you to log the finding and take corrective action if needed.

If the buoy is off station, or if you notice a drift, you should report it and note it in the log so it can be addressed promptly; otherwise, navigation guidance could be misleading. This approach is necessary even if there are no obvious label issues or maintenance due, and it’s broader than simply checking a label or waiting for a maintenance trigger.