How should a GPOW handle suspicious individuals approaching the gangway?

A Gangway Petty Officer of the Watch (GPOW) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the vessel at the gangway. When suspicious individuals approach, the most appropriate response is to maintain a safe distance while observing their behavior. This approach allows the GPOW to gather information about the individuals without putting themselves or others at risk.

By observing their actions and demeanor, the GPOW can assess whether the individuals pose a threat. Reporting the situation to security or the Officer of the Deck (OOD) ensures that trained personnel can take appropriate action if necessary. This method prioritizes safety and relies on established protocols for handling security concerns.

Other actions, such as engaging in conversation or asking the individuals to leave, may escalate the situation or compromise safety, and ignoring them could lead to a failure to address a potential threat effectively. Therefore, the correct protocol is to observe from a distance and communicate the concern to those who can take further action.