1. Introduction
2. Definition of Seaman
3. Two Types of Seaman
4. Ordinary Seaman
5. Able Seaman
6. Responsibilities of an Ordinary Seaman
7. Responsibilities of an Able Seaman
8. Qualifications for an Ordinary Seaman
9. Qualifications for an Able Seaman
10. Additional Training for an Able Seaman
11. Conclusion

What are the Two Types of Seaman?

The seafaring profession is one steeped in a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of global exploration and trade. Traditionally, a seaman was someone employed on a ship, responsible for the operation and maintenance of the vessel, from cleaning to navigation and more! This article will explore the two distinct types of seaman: ordinary seaman and able seaman. We’ll also look at their roles, responsibilities, qualifications and additional training that may be required in order to become an able seaman on a vessel today!

Definition of Seamen

A seaman is someone who works on a ship or vessel as part of the crew, performing tasks related to navigation and operation of the vessel. They are often referred to as deckhands or deck officers due to their role in operating and maintaining the ship’s decks and equipment; however, they can also be involved in other duties such as engineering or catering too! The word ‘seamen’ is often used interchangeably with ‘sailor’ which is slightly different but generally refers to anyone who works at sea regardless of their job description or rank on board the vessel.

## Two Types of Seamen
There are two distinct types of seamen: ordinary seaman (OS) and able seaman (AB). An ordinary seaman is someone who has less experience in seafaring than an able seaman but still performs many important duties on board a ship such as cleaning decks, keeping watch and operating machinery. An able seaman, also known as an able bodied seaman or simply AB has more experience on their seafarer resume, having spent more time at sea than an OS and therefore has more responsibility when it comes to operating machinery or navigating waters!

## Ordinary Seamen (OS)
An OS is someone who has less experience than ABs but still performs many important tasks on board a ship such as cleaning decks, keeping watch or operating various machinery. OS are usually entry level positions that require no prior experience but do require some basic training such as safety drills before being allowed to take part in any operations onboard the ship! OS must be physically fit and healthy enough to work in harsh conditions at sea for long periods without rest so it is essential that they are well prepared before setting sail! Responsibilities may include:

• Cleaning/maintaining decks/equipment onboard

• Keeping watch/monitoring radar/weather conditions

• Operating communications equipment

• Operating safety equipment

  Able Seamen (AB)

  An AB has more experience than an OS on their seafarer resume having spent more time at sea and therefore takes on more responsibility when it comes to operating machinery or navigating waters! An AB must have completed at least one year’s worth of sea time before they can apply for their certification which will consist of both written tests as well as practical assessments such as navigation drills and other related tasks! Qualifications may include:

• Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate

• Navigation Certificates

• Radar Observer Certificate

  Additional Training for ABs

  In addition to the qualifications listed above, ABs may need additional training depending upon the type of vessel they are working on such as firefighting drills or first aid courses so that they can react quickly in any emergency situation onboard! They may also need additional certifications such as medical certificates if they are working with hazardous materials onboard vessels carrying dangerous cargo so it is important that all ABs stay up-to-date with these requirements before setting sail!

  Conclusion

  Being a seafarer is a rewarding yet challenging career path with plenty of opportunities for advancement within the industry; however, there are two distinct types: ordinary seamen (OS) who perform basic duties such as cleaning decks or keeping watch; and able seamen (AB) who have more experience under their belt having spent more time at sea performing higher level tasks such as operating machinery or navigating waters! Both roles require certain qualifications but it is important that all ABs stay up-to-date with additional training requirements particular to their vessel before setting sail – this could range from firefighting drills to medical certificates depending upon what type of cargo they are carrying onboard!