Question 20 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (None of the above):** The primary and sole duty of a look-out while on watch is to maintain an alert and focused watch for navigational hazards, other vessels, and changes in the environment (e.g., weather, sea state). This duty requires undivided attention. Any task, however minor or seemingly related, that diverts the look-out's attention, concentration, or vision from their assigned sector is strictly prohibited. Therefore, a look-out may not perform any other duties listed in options A, B, or C. **Why the other options are incorrect:** **A) Sweep down the fo'c'sle:** This is a housekeeping task that requires movement, physical effort, and attention to the task, diverting the look-out’s eyes and focus away from the horizon. **B) Paint any area near your station:** Painting, even if stationary, requires concentration, steady hand movements, and visual focus on the immediate area of work, making it impossible to maintain a continuous, effective watch. **C) Overhaul a block, as long as it is at your look-out station:** Overhauling (disassembling and maintaining) machinery, even small items like a block, demands focused manual and visual attention, fundamentally conflicting with the requirement to scan and report on the vessel's surroundings.