What limitation does a statement of no objection (SNO) impose on a boarding officer?

A statement of no objection (SNO) serves as a specific guideline for boarding officers, delineating the scope of their authority during a boarding operation. When an officer receives an SNO, it outlines the actions that the officer is permitted to take regarding the vessel or person in question. This means that the boarding officer is restricted to following the parameters established in the SNO, ensuring that their actions align with the authority granted to them within that document.

The significance of this limitation is to ensure that the actions taken by the officer are both lawful and consistent with predefined regulations. As such, engaging in any actions outside the bounds of the SNO would not only undermine the authority granted but could also lead to potential legal repercussions or violations of protocol. Thus, adhering strictly to the details provided in the SNO is crucial for maintaining proper legal and operational standards during a boarding.