A Taiwanese marine pilot lost his life after falling from a pilot ladder on February 21, according to local media reports.
The pilot was climbing the ladder to join the small container feeder Blue Ocean at the port of Taichung, Taiwan. At the time conditions were rough, with force 7 winds reported. As a result the pilot was knocked off the ladder by wave action.
The crew of the pilot boat tried to retrieve him from the water with a throw rope and a life buoy, but maneuvering was difficult in rough conditions, while it took about 20 minutes to pull the pilot from the cold water.
By the time he was brought back on board, he was unconscious, and was brought to shore for treatment but did not survive, probably due to hypothermia.
Earlier, ICS along with the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) published the guide “Shipping Industry Guidance on Pilot Transfer Arrangements”, updating maritime pilot transfer safety procedures amid industry concerns about poorly rigged ladders causing severe injuries or fatalities.
Safe rigging for pilots
Seafarers should always check the condition of the ladder before it is rigged and ensure it is secured to the ship. While this is done, seafarers should always take care of their own safety, wearing all appropriate PPE.
If seafarers are uncertain about any of the requirements, they should always ask their supervising officer for advice.
Management responsibilities
Shipping companies should ensure that:
- All ladders are SOLAS compliant;
- The inspection regime and records are adequate and maintained;
- Replacement ladders are quickly and readily available on board; and
- Seafarers involved receive the necessary training and have a full understanding of the requirements.
On board responsibilities
The Master and officers should:
- Closely supervise the rigging of pilot ladders;
- Closely observe the boarding and disembarkation of pilots from ladders, ensuring that SOLAS requirements are met;
- Maintain a lee until the pilot vessel is well clear.
