What is the main purpose of shoring battens?

The main purpose of shoring battens is to accurately and efficiently measure and construct shoring. Shoring is essential in damage control scenarios, particularly when a vessel suffers structural damage. The battens serve as guides or templates that ensure the shoring system is constructed with precision to provide adequate support and stabilization. By using battens, personnel can create a more effective shoring structure that adheres to necessary specifications and standards, enhancing the overall safety and effectiveness of the damage control efforts.

In contrast, the other options focus on different functions that do not relate to the primary role of shoring battens. For example, providing temporary power supply pertains to electrical systems, while securing cargo deals with load management, both of which are important but separate from the function of shoring. Reinforcing hull integrity during repairs is a goal of shoring itself but does not directly address the auxiliary role of battens in measurement and construction. This distinction clarifies why the choice related to measurement and construction is the most accurate understanding of the function of shoring battens in damage control practices.