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Comment by Mark Klaene on March 12, 2009 at 12:14am

perhaps I am biased being a volunteer chief for too many years but I suggest you state your safety concern and know what your objective is (what is the benefit?) . We risk a lot to save a lot, risk a little to save a little, risk nothing to save nothing.

It is both or your duties to ensure you are on the same page. If he (she) comes to a different conclusion it is hopefully based on training and experience . You should never withhold safety concerns , but you must also respect the senior officers decisions until conditions change that support your immediate concerns. Then the crew needs to back out.

Thanks for a very interesting question!

Comment by the Happy Medic on March 11, 2009 at 4:00pm

Repeat the order to the officer and see if he confirms it. If so, carry out the task as safely and effectively as possible.
He might hear the order repeated and change his mind.

Comment by Shawn Burgess on March 11, 2009 at 2:01pm

You should explain the basis of your decision and if the safety of his/her crew is first and foremost he/she should agree. Keep in mind that the Captain may also see something that you don't.