What is the primary function of a scupper on a ship's deck?

• A. Drain water from the deck
• B. Provide air supply to compartments
• C. Drain fuel from tanks
• D. Serve as a navigation aid

Answer: (A)

Scuppers are deck openings that act as drains, pulling water that collects on the deck overboard to the sea. They keep the weather deck from flooding after rain, spray, or wash, which helps maintain traction and prevents water from reaching hatches or equipment. They aren’t for supplying air, draining fuel, or serving as navigation aids—those needs are met by ventilation systems, fuel drains, and navigational instruments, respectively. The essential purpose of a scupper is simply to remove deck water efficiently.