Question 384 Deck General

The correct answer is A) strengthen the main deck by placing pillars underneath it in the tween-decks. To "shore up" the main deck means to reinforce or support the deck structure to handle the additional weight of deck cargo. Placing pillars or supports underneath the main deck in the tween-decks helps distribute the weight and prevent the deck from becoming overstressed or damaged. This is a common practice to prepare the vessel for the stowage of heavy or bulky deck cargo. The other options are incorrect because: B) packaging the cargo does not reinforce the deck structure, C) distributing the weight with planks may help but does not "shore up" the underlying structure, and D) welding pad eyes is more for securing the cargo, not strengthening the deck.