Which action is part of a watchstander's role in ensuring safety during cargo operations?

Monitoring loading and unloading processes is a crucial action for watchstanders during cargo operations as it directly relates to safety. This involves overseeing the handling of cargo to ensure that it is loaded and unloaded in a manner that prevents accidents or incidents. By keeping a vigilant eye on these processes, a watchstander can identify potential hazards or unsafe practices that might lead to accidents, such as improper securing of cargo or failure to follow established safety protocols.

In addition to promoting safe operations, monitoring these processes helps in ensuring compliance with regulations and industry standards, which is essential for the protection of the crew, the vessel, and the cargo. Vigilant oversight means that any irregularities or deviations from the plan can be quickly spotted and addressed, mitigating risks effectively.

While managing crew discipline, choosing economic routes for the cargo, and scheduling maintenance for cargo equipment are important aspects of a watchstander's responsibilities, they do not directly impact the immediate safety of cargo operations in the same way that monitoring loading and unloading does.