Barge Captains - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, ship captains and mates:

Are very responsible for the work done by their crew.
Are responsible for the health and safety of their crew and passengers.
Have a high level of social contact as a captain. Mates have lower levels of social contact.
Sometimes are placed in conflict situations in which others may be rude or angry.
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Communicate with others primarily by face-to-face discussions and over the telephone. They also use e-mail but less frequently.
Nearly always work as part of a team.

Often work outdoors. May work indoors below deck when doing administrative or mechanical repair.
Are exposed to loud and distracting sounds and noise levels on a daily basis.
Are regularly exposed to contaminants.
Wear protective and safety attire on a daily basis.
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Are regularly exposed to extremely bright or low light.
Are often exposed to hazardous equipment, conditions, and situations that may result in cuts, burns, and scrapes.
Are sometimes exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures while working outdoors.
Sometimes experience whole body vibration when on the job.
Occasionally must get into awkward positions to reach cramped work places.
Occasionally are exposed to high places.
Sometimes wear a special uniform.
Often work physically near others while performing tasks.

Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could seriously endanger the crew.
Repeat the same physical and mental activities.
Must set their pace based on the speed of the equipment they operate.
Regularly make decisions that strongly affect others, including coworkers and the outcome of their tasks.
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Captains set their daily tasks and goals without seeking input first. Mates usually take some direction before beginning their daily work.
Work in a moderately stressful atmosphere in which daily and weekly deadlines must be met.

Stand watch for four hours and are off for eight hours while at sea.
Work seven days a week while at sea.
Work 60 days and have 30 days off, when working the Great Lakes.
May not work in winter when the Great Lakes are frozen.
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May work year round on rivers, canals, and in harbors.
May work eight- or twelve-hour shifts and go home every day, especially if working on rivers.
May work every day for a week or month and then have an extended period of time off.