The Bosun (or Bo's'n
both contracted forms of boatswain) or in the Cliffs' Fleet, an Able-Bodied
Maintenance Man (ABMM), was the foreman of the Deckhands.
Duties: Bosun
or ABMM's duties are usually assigned by the First
Mate; they usually revolve around maintenance of all deck equipment
and the cleanliness of the deck areas. The Bosun and the Deckhands ensured
that winches, the hatch crane, anchor windlasses, landing boom, and
other auxiliaries operated correctly. The Bosun could call for Engineers
if necessary to help with repairs. The Bosun is familiar with all aspects
of deck operation -- marlinespike seamanship (lines, cables, hoisting,
scaffolding, etc.). He opens and closes hatches and supervises the deck
crew when cleaning up/hosing after loading and unloading.
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