The responsibilities of a watchstander regarding cargo primarily focus on overseeing the safe loading and unloading of cargo to ensure the vessel's stability. This includes monitoring the weight distribution and securing the cargo appropriately to prevent any shifting during transit, which could compromise the vessel’s stability and safety.
By managing the loading and unloading processes, the watchstander helps to maintain the vessel’s balance and structural integrity. This is crucial as improper handling of cargo can lead to issues such as capsizing or cargo damage, which not only endangers the crew and vessel but also the environment.
The other options do not encompass the comprehensive responsibility of maintaining safety and stability during cargo operations. Monitoring market value, while potentially relevant to a broader logistical or financial role, does not impact the immediate safety and operational responsibilities of a watchstander. Coordinating sales with dock personnel is typically outside the purview of watchstanding duties, which focus more on operational safety than sales functions. Writing reports on cargo conditions may play a role in record-keeping but is not as central to the hands-on operational responsibilities as ensuring proper loading and unloading practices.