DECKHAND

·       Deckhand must be capable of lifting and moving equipment that is heavy, large, and awkward, sometimes from one level to another. Moving the equipment may require more than one person in order to move or lift the item safely. No deckhand should lift more than they can safely handle. It is the responsibility of the individual deckhand or lead deckhand to request assistance from other members of the crew when they feel it is necessary. Mechanical lifting devices are provided and must be used as necessary. The deckhand must consider the requirements of a particular job prior to undertaking the task so they can be assured that all necessary equipment or assistance is readily available.

·       Deckhand must ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while transporting tools and object. They must use portable ladders or stools to allow them to work on systems that are located in the overhead section of machinery spaces.

·       Repair may require the deckhands and lead deckhands to reach into small, poorly accessible areas of machinery; work on equipment that has pressurized or hot components; secure or segregate systems to provide an adequate safety margin; troubleshoot equipment that is difficult to reach; work in areas that have high noise levels; work below deck in an area that may experience periods of darkness in unusual situation; and work in confine and restricted spaces (if properly trained in the Inland Marine Service Confined Space Program).

·       The deckhand must have color vision that allows them to safely work on electrical systems that have color coded wires; distinguish between warning, alarm, and normal operating lights; discern system component that are identifiable by color code; and observe basic safety precautions that may be related to color identification.

·       A deckhand’s hearing must be adequate to ensure their personal safety while working in a machinery space with a high level of background noise and detect changes in operating sounds of machinery. They must be capable of communicating with the Captain/ Pilot or other personnel via portable or fixed VHF radio as well as by intercom system or voice communication.

·       The deckhand must possess sufficient physical dexterity to enable them to manipulate small items in restricted spaces or large object when using mechanical lifting devices.

·       A deckhand must be capable of reading well enough to comprehend the various manufacturers’ instruction manuals, which describe preventative and corrective maintenance procedure for the equipment aboard their boat. They must also be capable of reading and understanding written directives, which may affect their job or emergency assignment.

·       The deckhand must be capable of performing assigned emergency duties as found in the vessel’s Statin Bill without undue danger to them or the vessel.

·       Medical facilities are not readily in many areas along the river system. In some instances, a lengthy delay in obtaining medical assistance may occur. Any crew member needing medicine or periodic medical treatment is responsible for obtaining that treatment or medicine during their time off the boat.