What additional responsibility does the GPOW have during heavy traffic at the gangway?

The additional responsibility of the Gangway Petty Officer of the Watch (GPOW) during heavy traffic at the gangway is to ensure an efficient flow of personnel while maintaining security. This role is crucial, especially during busy times when there are many individuals moving to and from the vessel.

The GPOW must balance the need for security—checking IDs and ensuring that unauthorized individuals do not gain access to the ship—while also facilitating the smooth passage of crew members, guests, and vendors. Effective crowd management is essential in preventing bottlenecks and ensuring that everyone can move safely and quickly, reducing the risk of accidents or security breaches.

By maintaining this balance, the GPOW plays a vital role in the overall operational efficiency of the vessel, particularly when high traffic can lead to confusion and potential security vulnerabilities.