As part of American Club’s Good Catch safety guidance, the club highlights the importance of pilot ladder safety following the increase in marine pilot incidents.
There has been a tragic increase in marine pilot fatalities in recent months and pilots around the globe are paying particular attention to the conditions of pilot ladders of the vessels they board.
Many have refused to board vessels where ladders are in poor working condition. The American Club has reached out to the marine pilot community regarding some of the main concerns they have with pilot ladder arrangements.
Your safety as well as the safety of your fellow crew mates is every crewperson’s responsibility. The same responsibilities apply to those visiting your vessel, including marine pilots.
Considerations
- SOLAS regulation V/23, Pilot Transfer Arrangements, set forth the standards and requirements for boarding arrangements, responsibility of ship’s personnel in rigging pilot transfer equipment, associated pilot transfer equipment, clear access and lighting.
- Before every use, and before every rigging of a pilot ladder, attention is to be paid by the responsible officer to the overall condition of the pilot ladder. Due to the work pressure on ship’s crews, the condition of the pilot ladder can be overlooked and loose or missing chocks, dirty ropes and steps, even damaged steps are found in some cases.
- Keeping a watchful eye out for pilot ladders that may be in poor condition is everyone’s responsibility. Keep that watchful eye on your vessel and avoid conditions seen in these photos captured by safety conscious pilots around the globe.
