If shoring collapses, what should the watch do?

If shoring collapses, the appropriate action for the watch is to attempt to reconstruct the shoring. Reconstructing the shoring is vital because effective shoring provides essential support to maintain the integrity of the structure being protected, such as a damaged bulkhead or deck. By attempting to reconstruct the shoring, the watch can help stabilize the situation and prevent further damage from occurring, which is critical in damage control scenarios.

It's important that a thorough assessment is made to understand the nature of the collapse and whether it's safe to reconstruct the shoring. Proper techniques and procedures need to be utilized to ensure that any new shoring can effectively bear the loads and pressures present. This proactive step can significantly mitigate risks and facilitate recovery processes following damage.

Other options address immediate reactions, including notifying the captain or starting dewatering operations, but these do not address the critical need for structural support that shoring provides. Therefore, focusing on reconstructing the shoring first helps manage the damage more effectively.