Leon Solent
Striker
Most of the old men I've sailed with have used the line "I get paid what I do because it's me that carries the can when things go tits up". Well, tits have gone well and truly up a few times in my time but, strangely, there was never an old man ended up carrying that can. Company Standing Orders negate responsibility. Get the signature of those below you in rank saying that they understand their role and responsibility then your are immune. If everyone onboard gets their subordinate's signatures then they are all protected. Unless of course, the ship's cadet can teach the ship's cat how to write. You end up with a huge inverted pyramid of responsibility where the cadet, low man on the totem pole, carries all the blame. I've seen it in all its glory.Skipper thinks “ thank god for that - let’s have a beer“