What item did the cooper make for the sick and injured under the early navy regulations?

The cooper played a crucial role in supporting naval medicine by making essential items for the care of the sick and injured. Under early navy regulations, the cooper's primary responsibility included crafting buckets with covers and cradles. These items were significant for maintaining hygiene and proper containment of liquids, which was vital for both drinking water and medical needs aboard ships. The closed buckets helped prevent contamination and spillage, supporting the overall health of the crew by managing water sanitation effectively.

While water canisters, medical kits, and emergency stretchers are also important components in naval healthcare, they were not specifically attributed to the cooper's work as per early regulations. The focus on covered buckets reflects a direct response to the maritime environment and the challenges of sanitation at sea.