Question 2229 Deck Safety

The correct answer is D) Compression. When a vessel is sagging, the sheer strake (the top longitudinal structural member of the hull) is under compressive stress. This is because sagging is a condition where the middle of the vessel bends downward, causing the top of the vessel to be compressed. The other answer choices are incorrect because racking refers to shear stress, thrust refers to force acting in the direction of travel, and tension refers to a pulling force, which is the opposite of the compressive stress experienced by the sheer strake during vessel sagging.