Gloves for the Port Chaplain

Gloves are primarily used when climbing or descending a ship’s gangway. They should provide a strong grip on the inside of the palm to help prevent slipping while holding rails and hand lines.

Good gloves are especially useful when gangway railings are:

• Wet from rain or sea spray

• Freshly painted

• Oily or greasy

Choose gloves that are comfortable and easy to remove, since they are usually not needed once you safely reach the ship’s deck or return to the dock.

Many chaplains keep their gloves:

• Clipped to their belt with a carabiner or glove clip

• Stored in an easy-access side pocket of their bag

Above all, remember to maintain three points of contact at all times while ascending or descending a gangway. Safety should always come first.