DOCKHANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Dockhands, noun, plural: workers stationed at a dock or pier involved in various tasks related to the loading and unloading of ships or other vessels.
Dockhands, sometimes referred to as dock workers, are an integral part of the maritime industry. They perform a diverse range of manual tasks associated with the logistics and movement of cargo, ensuring the efficient operation of ports and docks. These skilled laborers shoulder responsibilities that include, but are not limited to, the transferring and securing of goods on and off ships, organizing cargo storage, and ensuring the safety and smooth flow of marine traffic.
Dockhands are essential for maintaining the crucial link between land and sea transport, being the backbone of the supply chain in marine industries. They possess physical strength and stamina as these tasks often require heavy lifting, operating machinery, and utilizing specialized equipment like cranes, forklifts, and pallet jacks. Moreover, they must have good coordination and spatial awareness to handle goods safely and efficiently.
The role of dockhands is demanding, and the work environment can be challenging due to long hours, exposure to outdoor elements, and the need to work quickly under pressure to meet tight schedules. Their duties also encompass documentation, record-keeping, and adhering to safety regulations or protocols to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure compliance with industry standards.
By being the hands-on personnel facilitating the transfer of cargo between ships and land, dockhands play a vital role in keeping economies running smoothly by ensuring that goods are delivered timely and efficiently from ports to their final destinations.
Common Misspellings for DOCKHANDS
- sockhands
- xockhands
- cockhands
- fockhands
- rockhands
- eockhands
- dickhands
- dkckhands
- dlckhands
- dpckhands
- d0ckhands
- d9ckhands
- doxkhands
- dovkhands
- dofkhands
- dodkhands
- docjhands
- docmhands
- doclhands
- docohands
Etymology of DOCKHANDS
The word "dockhands" is derived from two separate words: "dock" and "hands".
1. Dock: The word "dock" comes from Middle Dutch "doke" or Old English "docce", meaning a "platform" or "landing place". It originally referred to a structure built along the edge of a body of water where boats could be moored or loaded/unloaded.
2. Hands: The term "hands" is a plural form of "hand", which derives from Old English "hand". It refers to the part of the human body that extends from the wrist to the fingertips, allowing one to grasp, manipulate, and work with objects.
When combined, "dock" and "hands" form "dockhands" - individuals who work on or handle goods at the dock, responsible for loading and unloading ships, organizing cargo, and assisting with various tasks related to shipping and storage.
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