a principal component of the ship's structure, consisting of a planked or plated surface, approximately horizontal, extending between the ship's sides, and resting upon a tier of deck beams. A deck serves as a working surface, or flooring, and also as a divisional structure which subdivides the ship. The uppermost complete deck forms a weathertight, and usually watertight, covering. Decks also form part of the ship girders; that is, they contribute to the structural strength and rigidity of the hull.
The surface of decks, bulkheads and deckheads in working areas must be such that they can be cleaned or refurbished to an appropriate standard of hygiene.
