Who must authorize the removal of inspection plates, connections, fittings, or covers from the reduction gear casing?

The proper authority for authorizing the removal of inspection plates, connections, fittings, or covers from the reduction gear casing is the Engineer Officer. This role encompasses a variety of responsibilities related to the operation and maintenance of the ship's machinery, including the oversight of significant maintenance tasks that involve safety and operational integrity. The Engineer Officer is trained to assess the implications of such actions on the ship’s mechanical systems and ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulatory standards.

While the Chief of Naval Operations operates at a higher command level and may set overarching policies, and the Maintenance Supervisor plays a crucial role in day-to-day maintenance operations, the Engineer Officer has the specific technical knowledge and authority to authorize these critical maintenance activities. The Master Chief Petty Officer, while a senior enlisted leader, does not typically have direct authorization over technical maintenance tasks that are the responsibility of the engineering department and its officers.