Harbor Regulations. All harbor regulations should be observed. It is the duty of the Chief Mate to acquaint himself with these rules and see that the vessel and the crew abide by them.
Turning To. The time when men turn to and knock off, while in harbor, should be regulated by the Chief Mate, subject to companies' rules, customs, etc. It is well to abide strictly to these rules, but when the safety of the vessel, or the necessities of work require it, extra work may be demanded by the Chief Mate.
In the point of work in port, and at sea, for that matter, working conditions are now bound up in agreements between companies and seamen's unions. Much of this is necessary and was brought about by abuses practiced upon seamen in days past.
The Chief Mate who gives his crew a right deal, and knows how to handle and take care of his men, never has any trouble in getting work done after hours. The answer is be human—also just and firm—no sailor has any use for a jelly fish officer.
Upkeep. The work in port is usually confined to washing down, cleaning up after the stevedores, preparing holds for cargo, painting over the side, painting the boot-topping when the vessel is light, and cleaning up after coaling. At this time the steering gear and steering engine should be looked after, cleaned up and overhauled.
Wooden decks should be washed down every morning, as at sea, especially if in a warm port.
Cover the ends of mooring lines, to keep out dirt and grit; stow superfluous lines below—but handy—this keeps them away from harm, and the junk boats.
Unscrew and stow away all brass fittings—when in ports where these things can be disposed of—in most ports where the vessel lies at an unwatched wharf.
All persons leaving the vessel with packages, and suit cases—unless officers or officials—should show contents to the gangway watch.
No one should be allowed on the bridge or bridge deck, unless there on business.