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PILOT TRANSFER ARRANGEMENTS
AND
THEIR OPERATIONS
March 2004
JAPANESE PILOTS' ASSOCIATIONhttp://www.pilot.or.jp
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P R E F A C E
The re a re le ga lly pre s c ribe d pilota ge dis tric ts in J a pa n a nd a bout 700
p il ot s r e n de r p il ot a g e s er v ice s for a b ou t 1 70 ,0 00 s h ip s e ve r y ye a r . I n t h e
cou r s e of t h e ir d u t ie s, p il ot s m u s t p er for m a d a n ge r ou s p r oce du r e ca l le d
t r a n s fe r . T h er e h a v e b ee n a la r g e n u m b e r of a c ci de n t s r e su l t in g in b od il y
injurie s, including compa ra t ive ly m inor injurie s during tra ns fe r. In re ce nt
ye a rs , s even fa ta l a ccide nts ha ve occurr e d from 1993 to 2003, a nd the re fore
assur ing safety pilot's t ra nsfer is one of th e m ajor problems to be t ackled.
Regiona l pilots ' a s s ocia tions a nd our own a s s ocia tion ha ve ta ke n a
va rie ty of counte rme a s ure s to e ns ure t he s a fety t ra ns fer. However, in s pite of
strength ening safety measur es for self-protection, pilots are forced to depend
upon the ship for the pilot transfer arrangements and their operations.
We b el ie ve t h a t con ce r n ove r t h e s a fe t y i ss u e ca n b e s h a r e d a m on g
pilots regardless of nationality. In view of this, the Japanese Pilots' Association,
as a member of the Int ernat ional Maritime Pilots' Association, h as filed various
p r op os a ls t o I MO t o r e view t h e r ela t ed r egu la t ion s of t h e in t er n a t ion a l
convent ion as necessar y.
"The International Convention on Safety of Life at Sea, 1974" Chapter
V h a s become e ffe ctive from J uly 2002, in this opportu nity we re vise d the
b r och u r e for t h e p a r t i es con ce r n ed . We h op e t h i s w ill b e of s om e h e lp in
gett ing your fur th er underst anding of the sa fety of pilot tr ansfer.
SHOJI ARAGANE
President
Japanese Pilots' Association
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Terminology used in this brochure
[Related to Rules]
Interna tional Maritime Organization, a special organization of th eIMO
United Na tions
I n te r Gover n m en t a l Ma r it im e Con su lt a t ive Or ga n iza t ion , t h eIMCO
former name of IMO
New rules of the International Convention for the Safety of Life atNew SOLAS
Sea, 1974. Regulation 23, Chapter V of SOLAS was revised a t the
I MO M a r it i m e S a fe t y C om m it t e e h e ld on De ce m be r 2 00 0. T h e
regulation became effective on 1 July 2002
Old regulations of SOLAS before the revision mentioned aboveOld SOLASGeneral abbreviation used for the above when there is no necessitySOLAS
for distinguishing between old an d n ew SOLAS
T h e r e s ol u t ion "R ecom m e n d a t i on on P e r for m a n c e S t a n d a r d s forA275
Mechanical Pilot Hoists" adopted at the 8th Assembly of IMCO on 20
November 1973
The resolution "Recommendat ion on Arra ngements for Embar kingA426
a n d D i s e m b a r k i n g P i l o t s i n V e r y L a r g e S h i p s " a d o p t e d a t t h e 1 1 t h
Assembly of IMCO on 15 November 1979
The resolution "Recommendat ion on Pilot tra nsfer Arra ngements"A667
adopted at the 16th Assembly of IMO on 19 October 1989
"I S O 7 99 " of t h e I n t e r n a t i on a l or g a n iz a t ion for S t a n d a r d iz a t ionISO Standards
established on 1 July 1980
"J I S F 2 61 5-1 98 2" of J a p a n e s e I n d u st r i a l S t a n d a r d s r e vi se d on 1JIS
February 1982
J a p a n e se P i lot s ' As s oci a t ion con s is t in g of p il ot s l ice n s ed b y t h eJPA
Governm ent of J apan
Interna tional Maritime Pilots ' Association, an internat ional pilots 'IMPA
organizat ion consisting of pilots from 46 leading ma ritime nat ions
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[Equipment related terminology]
SOLAS terminology has been used in principle to avoid confusion.
Accommodation ladder
A l a d d er u s e d i n con j u n ct i on w it h t h e p il ot l a d de r i f t h e d is t a n ce
fr om s ea l ev el t o t h e p oi n t of a cce ss t o, or e gr e s s fr om , t h e s h ip
exceeds 9 m
Combination ladder
A t r a ns fer a r ra n gem en t t h at com bin es a p ilot la dd er a n d a n
accommodation ladder
A ladder used for tra nsferring persons between ship and landGangway ladder
Refers to a mechanical pilot hoistHoist
Refers t o a step on th e ladderStepA t r a n s v er s e p ie ce of w ood t h a t p r e ve n t s t w is t in g of t h e l a dd er .Spreader
Referred to a s "batt en" in old SOLAS
Referred to as "embark and disembark" in old SOLASTransfer
Notation of the provisions
SOLAS, Domestic law
IMO recommendation A889
IMPA and/or JPA recommendation
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C O N T E N T S
. Accidents during Pilot Transfer
1. Number of accidents in the past E1
2. Examples of Accidents E1
. Results of Inspections on Pilot Transfer Arrangements and their operations
1. The Safety Campaign for Pilots' Transfer E4
2. Improvements E4
3. Deficiencies by Nationality of Ship E5
4. Deficiencies by Ship Type E5
. Regulations of Pilot Transfer Arrangements
1. SOLAS Convention and Related Recommendations E6
(1) Processes behind the revision to Chapter 5 of the SOLAS Convention E6
(2)IMO Recommendations E6
2. Related rules in Japan E10
(1) Pilotage Law E10
(2) Pilotage Agreement E10
(3) Regulations for Equipment of Ships E10
(4) Regulations for the Enforcement of the Ship Safety Law E11
(5) Notice by Ministry of Transport (current Ministry of Land,
Infrastructure and Transport) E11
SOLAS and Related rules
1. Application E12
2. General E13
Regular inspections E13
Means of communication, escort by a safe passage and
training of crew members etc. E14
3. Transfer arrangements E15
Means to rig pilot ladder on both sides of the ship E15
Position to rig pilot ladder and strength of securing strongpoints E15
Consideration at an early stage in ship design E16
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Construction of pilot ladders and dimensions of each part E18
Replacement steps E19
Spreaders E20
Dimensions and materials of the side ropes E21
Arrangements when the access height exceeds 9 metres E22
Accommodation ladders used in conjunction with pilot ladders (abstract) E22
Position of accommodation ladder E25
4. Access to the ship's deck E26
5. Shipside doors E28
6. Mechanical pilot hoists E29
Resolution on Mechanical Pilot Hoist E29
Position of mechanical pilot hoist E31Emergency hand gear E32
Rigging of hoist and means for ships equipped with belting E33
Rigging of the pilot ladder E33
Indication of the hoisting position on the ship's side E33
Protective stowage and means in very cold weather E34
7. Associated equipment E34
8. Lighting E36
9. Other Important Items E37
(1) How to rig the pilot ladder to the ship E37
(2) Retrieving lines to recover pilot ladders E38
(3) Transfer arrangements and passages in ships carrying
on-deck timber cargoes E39
(4) Use of gangway ladders E41
(5) Measures against ships not conforming to SOLAS E41
Provisions of the relevant conventions and recommendationsAppendix
SOLAS Chapter V Application E44
New SOLAS E45
A889 E49
Old SOLAS E56
A275 E59
A426 E64
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. Accidents during Pilot Transfer
1. Number of accidents in the past
A total of 57 accidents including 6
dea t hs wer e r ecor ded in t he 27 yea r s fr om Degr ee of in ju ry N um ber
1 9 7 6 t o 2 0 0 2 , a l l of w h i ch w e r e D ea t h 6
a t t r ib u t a b le t o d e ficie n cie s in p ilot P r escr ibed r est 2
t r a n s fe r a r r a n g em e n t s a n d eq u ip m en t , or m or e t h a n 1 ye a r
t h eir im pr oper u se. A su m m a r y of m or e t h a n 6 m on t h s 2
in ju r ie s s u s t a in ed i s s h own in t h e m or e t h a n 1 m on t h 15
followin g t a ble. It sh ou ld be bor n e in less t h a n 1 m on t h 32
m in d t h a t even a n a cciden t in volvin g a Tot a l 57s hor t p er iod of r ecu p er a t ion m ea n t a
narrow escape from death.
2. Examples of Accidents
From the above cases, the most frequent and dangerous cases are outlined for
your reference.
Case 1 : Slipping on a pilot ladder
during nighttime in March 1990
weather: cloudy, wind force: 3, wave height: 0.3 m
Cont ainer ship, flag Taiwan, 40,436 G/T
A pilot was shaken off and fell to the pilot boat from the third step
from the top when the pilot ladder suddenly slipped down about 1 m.
right wrist broken, thigh and occipital part bruised, obliged to quit
occupa tion due to a fter-effects, despite 7 m ont hs of prescribed rest
P ilot fa lli n g d u e t o s u dd en m ove m en t of l a dd er i s t h e m os t fr e qu e n t
a cci de n t in t h e t r a n s fe r p h a se . T h es e a r e a t t r i bu t a b le t o s im p le m is t a k es a s
follows:
* t a n g le d s id e r op e r e m a i n ed u n -e xt e n d ed i n si de b u lw a r k d u e t o i n su ffici en t
disposition,
* ladder suddenly loses its grip on the bulwark and quickly moves outboard when
the load of the pilot is applied to the first step.
This accident might have been prevented if a load test had been carried out on
the ladder prepared by the crew.
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Case 4 : Inappropriate setting of combination ladder
during daytime in April 1992
wind force: 3 4, swell: 3 m
Ore/Oil carrier, flag Brazil, 69,851 G/T
The pilot hit his head and left shoulder hard against the hull and
fell into the sea while descending when the ladder twisted due to the effect of the
washed lower ladder end.
death from drowning
The height of the pilot ladder above the water should be adjusted according
to the instructions of the pilot, depending on the specification of the pilot boat and
w ea t h e r a n d s ea con d it i on s . I f t h e p i lot l a dd e r i s s e t t oo l ow er i t m a y t w is t or
t u r n u n e x p e c t e d l y d u e t o t h e e f f e c t s o f w a v e s o r c u r r e n t s , a n d r a i s e s t h e g r a v e
h a z a r d of s h a k i n g off t h e h a n g in g p i lot . T h is p h e n om e n on a n d t h e s u b se qu e n t
hazard have been well demonstra ted in tests.
Case 5 : Accident with Mechanical Hoist
during daytime in February 1977
unknown
flag Liberia, 75,259 G/T
J u s t a ft e r t h e h oi st s t a r t e d l ow er i n g, t h e p il ot fe ll i n t o t h e s ea
from a height of 16 m. Despite a n investigation being conducted by the Ja panese
Ma r it im e S a fe t y Age ncy (cu r r en t J a p a n Coa st Gu a r d), t h e ca u se wa s n ot
identified.
death from drowning
Superficially using a mechanical hoist may seem by far the most convenient
means for the swift transfer of a pilot. However, it also involves some drawbacks
in t hat lifting an d descending movements of the pilot are totally dependent on the
s hip 's h a n d a n d t h e a bilit y of t h e p ilot t o p r ot ect h im se lf is lim it ed . I t is
e sp eci a lly a d ve n t u r ou s for t h e p ilot t o u s e t h is d evice w he n e n ga gin g h igh
fr e eb oa r d v es s el s i n r ou g h s e a s . Al t h ou g h u s e of a m e ch a n i ca l h oi st for h i gh
freeboard vessels was approved by SOLAS as revised in 1994, IMPA maintains its
stance as stated in its own 1992 resolution that use of a mechanical hoist should
be left to the judgment of each pilot.
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. Results of Inspections on Pilot Transfer Arrangements
and their operations
1. The Safety Campaign for Pilots' Transfer
Th e s afet y of p ilot t r a nsfer ca n not be en su r ed wit h ou t t h e gen er a l
understanding and cooperation of the ship's crew, even if we impose strict measures.
S o, w e h a ve r equ es t ed m a st e rs t o im p rove a n y d eficien cy in p ilot t r a n sfe r
arrangements and their use, whenever we find it.
Pilot Transfer Safety Campaign will be launched for one week from the first
we ek of J u l y eve ry yea r t o ca r r y ou t e nh a n ced in sp ect ion s of p ilot t r a n sfe r
ar ra ngement s. Any deficiency or m isuse foun d dur ing this period will also be advised
to th e m aster, r equesting appropriate improvement. (Data shown below a re t he r esultsof inspection in 2003.)
2. Improvements
The results of inspections, although quite short term, reveal that the ratio of
d efi ci en ci es h a s b ee n d e cr e a s in g e ve r y y ea r . I n p a r t i cu l a r , m a n y i m pr ov em e n t s t o
equipment and arrangements have been made, demonstrating cooperation and efforts
by shipping companies and their crews. Nonetheless, it should be borne in mind that
misuse would insta ntly nu llify t hese achievements. So, we will continue to provide
the necessary advice to keep the vessels concerned conscious about the safety of pilots'
transfer.
Offenses
Serious Offens es
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3. Deficiencies by Nationality of Ship
The results of inspections indicate that occurrences of deficiencies are greater
in vessels registered under flags of convenience, and seldom occur in ships under flags
of advanced ma ritime count ries in E urope, U.S., an d J apan.
O F FE N SE S B RO KE N DO WN B Y F L AG S
_________________2001______________2002_______________2003_________________
1. Ba h a m a s 0 / 28 0 / 28 2 / 26
2. Belize 0 / 2 3 / 4 2 / 6
3. Ca m bodia 3 / 6 3 / 3 0 / 3
4. Ch in a 5 / 49 2 / 38 3 / 35
5. Cypr u s 2 / 11 1 / 19 1 / 15
6. Den m a r k 0 / 18 0 / 11 2 / 11
7. D. P . R. Kor ea 0 / 2 1 / 2 1 / 18. Ger m a n y 1 / 17 0 / 11 0 / 8
9. Gr eece 0 / 6 1 / 23 1 / 9
10. It a ly 0 / 2 0 / 0 0 / 8
11. J a pa n 0 / 35 1 / 29 0 / 19
12. Kor ea 0 / 9 1 / 2 0 / 11
13. Liber ia 1 / 48 1 / 44 3 / 56
14. Ma la ysia 1 / 12 0 / 12 0 / 13
15. Ma r sh a ll Isla n ds 1 / 10 1 / 20 2 / 15
16. Nor wa y 0 / 13 0 / 16 1 / 19
17. P a n a m a 13 / 324 15 / 373 10 / 313
18. P h ilippin es 0 / 22 0 / 18 0 / 11
19. Sin ga por e 0 / 35 1 / 41 0 / 2420. Sweden 0 / 1 0 / 0 0 / 8
21. U. K. 0 / 2 1 / 7 0 / 6
22. U. S. A. 0 / 13 1 / 20 1 / 7
23. Ot h er s 4 / 64 2 / 64 0 / 22
Tot a l 31 / 729 35 / 785 29 / 643
4. Deficiencies by Ship Type
Size Less t h a n 3,000 t o 10,000 t o Over
3,000 G/T 10,000 G/T 50,000 G/T 50,000 G/T
Tot a l offen ses 3 12 10 5
Gr a n d Tot a l 14 75 425 129
Offen se r a t e 21.4 16.0 2.4 3.9
The ratio of deficiencies in smaller ships of less than 3,000 G/T is far larger
tha n tha t of ships larger th an 10,000 G/T.
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. Regulations of Pilot Transfer Arrangements
1. SOLAS Convention and Related Recommendations
(1) Processes behind the revision to Chapter 5 of the SOLAS Convention
* Pilot Transfer Arrangements and Equipment and their operations are laid down in
SOLAS a s m andat ory r equirements.
* Deliberations had been carried on since 1997 to reorganize and rearrange Regulation
17, but relevant requirements were reformed under Regulation 23, and taking the
o p p o r t u n i t y o f a d o p t i n g t h e e n t i r e C h a p t e r 5 a t t h e 7 3 r d s e s s i o n o f t h e M a r i t i m e
Safety Committee in 2000, they came into effect as the new SOLAS on 1 July, 2002.
* Before the above SOLAS Convention came into effect, the Recommendation on Pilot
T r a n s fe r Ar r a n g e m en t s a n d E q u ip m e n t , p r e scr i bi n g t h e d et a i le d r e qu i r em e n t s of SOLAS was adopted as IMO Resolution A 889 at the 21st General Assembly of IMO.
C a m e i n t o e ffe ct on C a m e i n t o e ffe ct on
1 J a n u a r y 1994 1 J uly 2002
Con ven tion r egu la tion Regu la tion 17 Regu la tion 23
(Ma n da t or y r equ ir em en t s) Ch a pt er 5 Ch a pt er 5
Recom m en da t ion I MO Recom m en da t ion I MO Recom m en da t ion
A 667 (16) A 889 (21)
(2)IMO Recommendations
* I MP A pr e pa r e d a p os t er i llu s t r a t in g t h e p ilot t r a n s fe r a r r a n ge m en t s a n d t h e ir
operational requirements in accordance with SOLAS, and recommendations by IMO
and IMPA in a readily understandable format, and the poster was approved by IMO
in 1995.
Refer to MSC/Circ.568/Rev.1 "REQUIRED BOARDING ARRANGEMENTS FOR
PILOT"
* J P A a r r a n ge d t o p r in t t h e p os t er a ffixe d wit h J a p a n es e t r a n sla t ion s a n d t o
distribute copies of t he poster thr ough regional pilots ' associations and shipping
companies for posting t hem on the navigation bridge of individual ships. You are
requested to review them. And a lso Russian, Chinese and Korean version a re ready
to download on our web site.
* Pay attention to the following points when referring to the poster:
- See "Caut ions for Mecha nical Pilot Hoist" print ed on th e back of th e poster.
- Man-ropes should be ready for immediate use even in the case of pilot transfers
using a combination ladder, although this is not depicted in the poster.
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- It is desirable to provide the bulwark ladder with handrails "Access to the ship",
although this is not depicted in the poster.
- D im e n s ion s of a p il ot l a dd e r a n d a s s oci a t ed e qu i pm e n t i n t h e p os t e r a r e t o b e
based upon the requirements of the new SOLAS and A889, but they may be based
upon the requirements of the old SOLAS for existing arrangements.
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IMPA poster / adverse side
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IMPA poster / back side
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2. Related rules in Japan
(1) Pilotage Law
Safety means for pilot transfer
A r t i c l e 1 9 T h e m a s t e r o f t h e s h i p s h a l l t a k e a d e q u a t e m e a s u r e s t o e n s u r e
safety for the transfer of the pilot.
(2) Pilotage Agreement Based on Article 22-2 of the Pilotage Law
Limitation of the agreement
Art icle 6 The pilot can refuse his services in t he following cases:(4) When th e boarding facilities a re not considered dependa ble.
Safe m eans of embarking and disembarking
Article 8-1 When a pilot embar ks or disembarks, the mast er of the ship shall take
every precaution for the safety of the pilot and pilot boat by keeping to the
lee side, reducing the ship's speed properly or stopping the engine.
Article 8-2 The mast er of the ship shall ensure th at the pilot ladder etc. conform to
t h e r equ ir em en t s of Regu la t ion 17, Ch a pt er V of t h e I nt er n at ion a l
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974. The master shall also ensure
that the pilot ladder is secured at a proper height so that its lowest step may
reach the pilot boat, but not become awash the sea surface by being too long.
Ar t icle 8-3 Wh er e a n a ccid en t s uch a s a pilot fa llin g t a kes pla ce d ur in g
e m ba r k a t i on or d is em b a r k a t i on of t h e p il ot , t h e m a s t e r s h a l l t r y t o w h a t i s
f o r s a v i n g a n d t r e a t i n g t h e p i l o t , a n d s h a l l a c c e d e t o t h e r e q u e s t f r o m t h e
said pilot or his representative to make documents certifying the accident.
(3) Regulations for Equipment of Ships
Part 3 Equipment for Navigation etc.
Chapter 3 Equipment for Navigation
- Art icle 146-39 Requirements for P ilot La dders
(S h ip s w it h a g r os s t on n a g e l es s t h a n 1 ,0 00 t on s n ot e n ga g ed on i n t er n a t i on a l
voya ge s or s h ip s n ot r e qu ir in g p il ot a ge s er vi ce s m a y b e e xe m pt e d fr om t h e
requirements)
P a r t 7 S p eci a l Ar r a n g e m en t s
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Chapter 1 Pilot Hoists
- Article 305 Arra ngements
- Art icle 306 Safety Fa ctors
- Art icle 307 Length of Main Falls
- Art icle 309 Perform an ce, Const ruction an d Dimensions
- Art icle 310 Light ing an d Stowage
- Article 311 Other Necessary Means
(4) Regulations for the Enforcement of the Ship Safety Law
- Art icle 56-2 Allowable work ing loads for hoists
- Art icle 60-2 Insp ection of hoists
- Art icle 64 Restrictions on th e use of pilot ladders etc.
(5) Notice by Ministry of Transport (current Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport)
T o c om p le m en t t h os e it e m s of t h e S OL AS r e qu ir e m en t s n ot p r es cr i be d in t h e
P i lot a g e L a w, t h e R egu l a t ion s for S h ip 's E q u ip m e n t a n d t h e R eg u la t i on s for t h e
Enforcement of t he Ship Sa fety Law, th e following notices have been issued by th e
Ministry of Transport:
- Notice from t he Director-General of th e Mar itime Technology and Safety Burea u
I t s u m m a r iz es d et a i le d r e qu ir e m en t s for p ilot t r a n s fe r a r r a n ge m en t s a n d i s
addressed to District Transport Bureaux etc. (the contents are omitted).
- Notice from the Director of t he Ship Officers Division, Seafarers Depart ment,
Maritime Technology and Safety Bureau
This notifies the operational requirements for pilot transfer arrangement to those
concerned (the text is omitted).
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1.3 Equipment and arr angements pr ovided before 1 J anua ry 1994:
- Shall conform at least to the r equirements of the old SOLAS.
- Sha ll observe both A275 Recomm endat ion a nd A426 Recomm endat ion.
1.4 Equipment and arrangements replaced after 1 January 1994:
- Shall conform to the requirements of the r evised Convention rules as
far as is reasonable and practicable.
* Recommendations mentioned below are shown at the end of the book.
- A275 Recomm endat ion on Perform an ce St an dar ds for Mecha nical P ilot Hoists
- A426 Recommendat ion on Arra ngement for Embar king an d Disembarking Pilots
in Very Large Ships
- A889 Recomm endat ion on P ilot Tran sfer Arra ngement s
* The new SOLAS provides that "due regard shall be paid to " in 1.2 and 1.3, above
on t h e b a s is of t h e s t a n d a r d i n e a ch r e com m e n d a t i on a d op t e d b y l MO . H o we ve r ,
t h es e r ecom m en d a t ion s a r e con s id er ed t o com p le m en t t h e C on ve n tion 's
requirements in a concrete manner, and compliance is understood to be obligatory.
* In case of "1.3 Equipment and arrangements provided before 1 January 1994", the
new SOLAS applies to the operational mat ters.
2. General
Regular inspections
2.1 All arrangements used for . . . the appliances shall be kept clean, properly
m a i n t a i n e d a n d s t o w e d a n d s h a l l b e r e g u l a r l y i n s p e c t e d t o e n s u r e t h a t
they ar e safe to use.
* I t is i m por t a n t t o in s pe ct p ilot t r a n s fe r a r r a n g em e n t s s u ch a s p il ot la d d er s a n d
ancillary equipment for wear and defects. Inspections shall be carried out, at least
be for e a n d a ft er u sin g t h e p ilot la d der . I t is n ece ss a ry t o ca r r y ou t r ep a ir s
im m e dia t e ly, if a b n or m a l it i es a r e fou n d . P r e ca u t i on s s h ou ld b e t a k e n for t h e
following items specifically:
- Inspections of the pilot ladder itself and a ncillary equipment for wear a nd t ear.
- Immediate reconditioning/repairs of a bnorma lities discovered in the inspection
and cleaning.
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- Proper stowage of the pilot ladder to prevent it from fouling, wear and forma tion
of ice.
- Others necessary for preventing danger.
* Inspections of pilot hoists, which are mechan ical, ar e part icularly important. It is
n e ce s sa r y t o t h or ou g h ly i n sp ect t h e m i n a ccor d a n ce w it h t h e r e qu i r em e n t s of t h e
maintenance manual prescribed in 4.1.2 of A889.
Means of communication, escort by a safe passage and training of crew
members etc.
2.2 The rigging of the pilot transfer arrangements and the embarkation of a
p il ot s h a ll b e s u pe r vis ed b y a r e sp on s ib le offi ce r h a vin g m e a n s of
commu nication with the navigation bridge who shall a lso arr ange for the
e scor t of t h e p il ot b y a s a fe r ou t e t o a n d fr om t h e n a v iga t i on b r id ge .
Personnel engaged in rigging and operating any mechan ical equipment
s ha ll be in st r u ct ed in t h e s afe pr oced ur es t o be a dop ted a n d t h e
equipment shall be tested prior to use.
* S h ip 's office r s r e fe r r ed t o h e r e a r e
n a v ig a t in g offi ce r s w h o h a v e a m p l e
k n owl ed ge on t h e r e qu ir e m en t s of
SOLAS.
* Means of communication between the
officer and the navigation bridge is a
p or t a ble t r a n sce iver . T his is for
communicating with the master or the
duty officer on the navigation bridge
t o e n s u r e s a fe p il ot t r a n s fe r t h r o u gh
cou r se a n d/or s peed ch a n ges a s
a p p r op r ia t e, or t o e n a bl e cr ew
members to take immediate actions in possible cases of the pilot falling to the sea or
his injury.
* Inadequate training of crew members who operate the arrangements might lead to a
fata l accident of th e pilot. In particular, it is n ecessary to pr ovide crew members of
the ship equipped with mechanical equipment - pilot hoists with adequate training
i n a ccor d a n ce w it h t h e m a n u a l p r e scr i be d i n 4 .7 .1 of A8 89 for p r op e r s t or a g e,assembly, rigging a nd operat ion of th e h oist.
Spilled oil on passage may cause slip!
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* The mechanical pilot hoist shall be tested before use for the safety.
* No requirements are provided in SOLAS, but safety precautions shall be exercised
on the following points:
- A p or t a b l e t r a n s ce iv er s h a ll b e ca r r i e d b y t h e offi ce r t o com m u n i ca t e w it h t h e
na vigation bridge.
- When a combination ladder is used, the officer shall stand at the lower platform of
the accommodation ladder.
- I t i s a d v i s a b l e t h a t a t l e a s t o n e c r e w m e m b e r o f t h e d e c k d e p a r t m e n t s h o u l d b e
accompanied to support the necessary operation.
3. Transfer arrangements
Means to rig pilot ladder on both sides of the ship
3 .1 Ar r a n gem en t s s h all be p r ovid ed t o en a ble t h e p ilot t o em ba r k a n d
disembark safely on either side of the ship.
3.2 t he a ccom moda tion la dder or m ech an ica l pilot h oist s t he
s h ip s h a l l ca r r y s u ch e qu i pm e n t on e a ch s id e , u n l es s t h e e qu i pm e n t i s
capable of being transferred for use on either side.
* The pilot normally transfers himself from or to the pilot boat on the lee side of the
ship in wind and waves. The pilot ladder shall, therefore, be ready to use either side
of the ship. Concretely, the following items shall be ready for use on both sides of
the ship:
- Safe points of access (including handhold stanchions and bulwark ladders)
- Ring plat es for rigging th e pilot ladder
- Lighting ar ran gement
Position to rig pilot ladder and strength of securing strongpoints3 .3 S afe a n d con ve nie nt a cce ss t o, a n d e gr es s fr om , t h e s hip s ha ll be
provided by either :
.1 a pilot ladder requiring a climb of not less tha n 1.5 m and not more than
9 m above the surface of the water so positioned a nd secured tha t:
.1.1 it is clear of any possible dischar ges from t he ship;
.1.2 it is wit h in t h e p a r a llel b od y le ngt h of t h e s h ip a n d, a s fa r a s is
practicable, within the mid-ship half length of the ship;
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* To ver ify wh et h er t h e 9-m et r e
cr it er ion is exce ed ed or n ot , t h e
h e igh t fr om t h e wa t e r t o t h e t op of
t h e bu lwa r k sh ou ld be m ea su r ed
wh en t h e pilot clim bs over t he
bu lwa r k, or t h e h eigh t fr om t h e
water to the top of the deck when the
p ilot d oe s n ot clim b ove r t h e
bulwark.
* W h en t h e h e igh t fr om t h e w a t er t o
the point of access to the ship is less
t h a n 1.5 m et r es , t h e p ilot s h ou ld
embark or disembark the ship directly without using the pilot ladder.
* D is t a n ce fr om d is ch a r ge s fr om t h e s h ip s h ou ld b e d et e r m in e d w it h a n a m p le
allowance taking into account the effects of wind and waves. If a sufficient distance
cannot be achieved due to the Structure of the sh ip with resultant splashes r eaching
the ladder, it should be stopped with a plug.
* Wi t h in t h e m id -s h ip h a lf
len gt h of t h e s hip is a s
shown in Figure below. In
t h e o l d S O L AS , t h e
r e qu i r em e n t i s d es cr i be d
a s "i t is cle a r s o fa r a s is
p r a ct ica b le of t h e fin er
lines of the ship"
Mid-ship half length of the ship
Consideration at an early stage in ship design
1 GENERAL
S h ip d es ign e r s a r e e n cou r a ge d t o con s id er a ll a s pe ct s of p ilot t r a n s fe r
a r r an gem en t s a t a n ea r ly st a ge in design . E qu ip men t des ign er s a n d
m a n u f a ct u r e r s a r e s im i la r l y e n cou r a g ed , p a r t i cu l a r ly w it h r e s pe ct t o t h e
provisions of par agra phs 2.1.2, 3.1 an d 3.3.
The ladder shall be clear from
any possible discharges.
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* T h e p os it i on of t h e l a dd er s h ou l d b e d et e r m i n ed b y p a yi n g s u ffi ci en t a t t e n t i on
during the early stage of construction of the ship.
* The contents of the provisions specifically shown are as follows:
- Paragraph 2.1.2: Means to make sure step rests firmly against the ship's side, also
means for belting.
- Paragraph 3.1: Securing position of the accommodation ladder, resting of the lower
platform against the ship's side and means for special types of ships.
- Paragraph 3.3: Levelling of the lower platform of the accommodation ladder when
in use.
.1 .3 e a ch s t ep r e st s fir m ly a ga in s t t h e s h ip 's s id e; wh e r e con s t r u ct i on a l
featur es, such as rubbing bands, would prevent the implementat ion of
t h i s p r ov is ion , s p eci a l a r r a n ge m e n t s s h a l l, t o t h e s a t i sfa ct i on of t h e
Ad m in i st r a t i on , b e m a d e t o e n s u r e t h a t p e r son s a r e a b le t o e m ba r k a n d
disembark safely;
* I t s hou ld be en s ur ed t h a t
ea ch s t ep of t h e p ilot
ladder rests firmly against
the ship's side.
* Ru bbin g ba nds a re t he
b e lt in g fi t t e d t o s h ip s
e n g a g e d o n v o y a g e s
involving frequent passages
through dock gates such as
in t he Gr ea t La kes of
Nort h America (also called
"longitudinal fixed fender"). A rubbing band, therefore, precludes the pilot ladder
from resting firmly against the ship's side, and is also dangerous for the pilot boat
when it comes alongside the ship.
* F or s h ip s w it h s u ch a con s t r u ct ion , s pe ci a l s a fe t y m e a su r e s s h a ll b e t a k e n b y
flattening t he portion of the face of the rubbing ban d where the pilot ladder is to be
rigged. Approval from the Administration is required for such a case.
* It is advisable t hat the measures stated above be considered dur ing the ship's designstage.
Example showing that each step of the pilot ladder
does not rest firmly against the ship's side firmly
against the ship's side
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.1.4 the single length of pilot ladder is capable of reaching the water from the
point of access to, or egress from, the ship and due allowance is made
for all conditions of loading and trim of the ship, and for an adverse list
of 15; the securing strong point, shackles and securing ropes shall be at
least as st rong as th e side ropes;
* Pilot ladders should not be used in
conjunction.
* I n cr e m en t L d u e t o a r e ve r se l is t
of 15 d egr ee s of t h e s hip ca n be
a p pr oxim a t e d a s s h ow n b elow
referring to the following figure.
* Positioning the pilot ladder for the
s h ip s ca r r y in g on -d eck t i m be r
ca r goe s s h ou ld b e r e fe r t o "P il ot
transfer arrangements and passages
for sh ips car rying on-deck car goes".
* See "Securing the pilot ladder firmly
against the ship's structure" for the height of the lower end of the pilot ladder from
the water when the ladder is actua lly rigged.
* T h e s t r en gt h of s ecu r in g s t r on g p oi n t s, s h a ck le s a n d s ecu r i ng r op es m u s t b e
equivalent to th at of the side r opes.
Construction of pilot ladders and dimensions of each part
2 .1 .2 T h e s t ep s of t h e p ilot l a dd er s s h ou ld com p ly w it h t h e foll ow in g
requirements:
.1 if made of hardwood, they should be m ade in one piece, free of knots;
.2 if made of mat erial other tha n har dwood, they should be of equivalent
s tr en gt h , st iffn es s a n d du r a bilit y t o t h e s at is fa ct ion of t h e
Administration;
.3 t h e fou r lowe st s t ep s m a y b e o f r u b be r of s u fficie n t s t r en gt h a n d
stiffness or other material to the satisfaction of the Administration;
.4 th ey should ha ve an efficient non-slip surface;
.5 t h e y s h ou l d b e n ot l es s t h a n 4 00 m m b et w ee n t h e s i de r o pe s, 1 15 m m
Length of the pilot ladder and
reverse list of 15 degrees
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wide and 25 mm in depth, excluding any non-slip device or grooving;
.6 they should be equally spaced not less than 300 mm or more than 380
m m a pa r t ; a n d
.7 t h ey s hou ld be s ecu r ed in s u ch a m a n n er t h a t e ach will r em a in
horizontal.
Materials of step
* It is defined in ISO that hardwood is ash, oak, elm, beech or teak, and equivalent
ch a r a ct e r is t ics r e fe r t o e qu i va l en t r e la t i ve d en s it y, s t r en gt h , d u r a bil it y a n d
buoyancy.
* Steps made from aluminium alloy materials readily buffeted by winds are dangerous
and, th erefore, are una cceptable. Note, however, "COMAR MARK , "using steps
made from specifically invented synth etic resin is a pproved by th e United St ates
C oa s t Gu a r d a s h a vin g e qu iva le n t ch a r a ct e r is t ics a s h a r d wood a n d a r e h igh ly
evaluated by IMPA.
* The lowest four steps should be made of rubber of sufficient strength and stiffness,
because they are vulnerable to failure upon being squeezed between the ship and a
pilot boat.
* Alth ough applicat ion of a non-slip coat ing on
the upper side of each step is acceptable, use
of or din a r y p ain t s r es ult s in s lip per y
surfaces and detection of failures becomes
difficult, hence, it is not acceptable.
Dimensions of steps
* The thickness of a step excluding the depth
of the grooving or non-slip coating shall not
be less than 25 millimetres.
Levelling of steps
* E a ch st ep sh a ll be levelled in bot h t h e
longitudinal and tra nsverse directions of th e
ship.
Replacement steps
2.1.3 No pilot ladder should have more th an two replacement steps which a resecured in position by a method different from t hat used in the original
Tilting in the
longitudinal
direction
Tilting in the
transverse
direction
Steps shall be levelled
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* The following requirements of ISO shall be referred to for the number of steps and
relative positions of sprea ders:
[Number of steps and corresponding number of spreader steps]
N u m be r of P os it i on (s ) of N u m b e r P os it ion (s ) of
st ep s sp rea der s tep(s) of st ep s s pr ea der st ep (s)6 5 18 5,14
7 5 19 5,14
8 5 20 5,14
9 5 21 5,14
10 5 22 5,14
11 5 23 5,14,21
12 5 24 5,14,22
13 5 25 5,14,23
14 5,12 26 5,14,23
15 5,13 27 5,14,2316 5,14 28 5,14,23
17 5,14 30 5,14,23
N ot e : S p r e a d er s t e p p os it i on s a r e d et e r m i n ed b y t h e s t e p
number counted from the bottom of the ladder.
* S p r ea d er s s h a ll be e it h e r fit t e d on t h e r e a r s id e of a s t ep or fa b r ica t e d t o b e
integrated with the steps (spreaders of this construction are called spreader steps,
wh i ch a r e fr e qu e n t ly u s ed t od a y) s o t h a t t h e r e is n o in t e r fe r en ce w it h p ilottransfers.
Dimensions and materials of the side ropes
2.2.1 The side r opes of the pilot ladder should consist of two uncovered ropes
not less than 18 mm in diameter on each side and should be continuous,
with no joins below the top step.
2 .2 .2 S id e r op es s h ou l d b e m a d e of m a n i la or ot h e r m a t e r i a l o f e qu i va l en t
s t r e n gt h , d u r a b il it y a n d g r ip w h ich h a s b ee n p r ot e ct e d a g a in s t a ct i n ic
degradation and is satisfactory to the Administration.
* E q u i va l en t g r ip t o t h a t a v a il a bl e w i t h m a n i la r op es m e a n s r e s is t a n ce t o s l ip p a ge
when gripped, which is comparable to manila ropes.
* The circumference of the side rope shall not be less than 18 mm in diameter. Two
lines each on both sides, a total of four side ropes, shall be pr ovided.
* Application of covers to the side ropes is not accepted because they preclude visual
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detection of defects and involve dangers such as dislocations and slippery h and
grips.
* The side ropes for "COMAR MARK " ha ve a polypropylene core an d Dacron at th e
periphery, the materials were specifically developed and are approved as equivalent
to manila ropes.
Arrangements when the access height exceeds 9 metres
. 2 I n a l l s h i p s w h e r e t h e d i s t a n c e f r o m s e a l e v e l t o t h e p o i n t o f a c c e s s t o , o r
e g r e s s f r o m , t h e s h i p e x c e e d s 9 m , a n d w h e n i t i s i n t e n d e d t o e m b a r k a n d
d is em b a r k p il ot s b y m e a n s of t h e a ccom m od a t i on l a dd e r , o r b y m e a n s of
m e ch a n ica l p ilot h ois t s or ot h e r e qu a l ly s a fe a n d con ve n ie n t m e a n s i n
conjunction with a pilot ladder,
* The criterion of 9 metres is said to have been determined considering the limit of
tolerable height for a person falling onto the sea without sustaining fatal injuries
due to impact. This reflects the results of old experiment to assess the impact upon
a parachutist from an aircraft at the moment he lands on the water. However, IMO
d ecla r e d t h e s a fe h e igh t for a p er s on ju m p in g in t o t h e wa t e r in a fr e es t a n din g
position to be 5 m etres. The r esults of a simulation by the J apan Association for
Preventing Marine Accidents using a dummy show th at a height of 5.5 metr es is th e
t ol er a b le l im i t . D iffe r en t cr i t er i a h a v e b ee n p r op os ed a s s h ow n a b ove . I n t h i s
connection, lower criteria tha n 9 metres have been employed by pilots in Canada
an d Mexico.
* In judging if the 9-metre criterion is exceeded, any listing of the ship is not to be
taken into account.
Accommodation ladders used in conjunction with pilot ladders (abstract)
3.1 Arra ngements which may be more suitable for special types of ships may
be accepted, provided that they are equally safe.
3.2 The angle of slope does not exceed 55.
3.3 The lower platform should be in a horizonta l position.
3.4 Intermediate platforms should be self-levelling.
3.5 Th e la dd er a n d p la t for m sh ou ld be equ ipp ed on bot h s id es wit hstanchions and rigid handrails or handrope for safety.
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3 .6 T h e pi lot l a d d er s h ou l d be r i gg ed a d ja ce n t t o t h e low er p l a t for m a n d t h e
upper end should extend at least 2 m above the lower platform.
3 .7 I f a t r a p d oor i s fi t t e d in t h e l ow er p l a t for m t o a l low a cce s s fr om a n d t o
t h e p i l o t l a d d e r , t h e a p e r t u r e s h o u l d n o t b e l e s s t h a n 7 5 0 m m x 7 5 0 m m .
In this case the after part of the lower platform should also be fenced as
specified in paragraph 3.5 above, and the pilot ladder should extend above
the lower platform to the height of the han drail.
3.8 Accom moda tion la dder s sh ou ld be t o t he sa tisfa ct ion of t he
Administration.
Height of the lower platform of the accommodation ladder
* SOLAS does not specify any requirements for the distance between sea level and the
lower platform of the accommodation ladder, but IMPA clearly prescribes that "the
distance shall be adjusted within the range between 3 and 7 metres considering the
size of the pilot boat and the height of swells" as stated in the IMPA Poster.
* I n J a p a n , t h e d is t a n ce of 7 m e t r e s i s o ft e n u s e d p a r t i cu l a r ly i n p il ot a g e d is t r i ct s
w h e r e p i l o t s t r a n s f e r t o o r f r o m t u g s o r t h o s e w h e r e p i l o t s t r a n s f e r i n o p e n s e a s ,
ot h e r wi se t h e d is t a n ce of 5 m e t r es i n m a n y ca s es is u s ed . I n e it h e r e ve n t , i t i s
necessary to observe th e instru ctions of th e regiona l pilots' association concerned.
* The accommodation ladder must be
s ecu r ed a ga in st t h e s h ip 's s id e
wit hin t he r an ge fr om 5 t o 7
metres.
* Sufficient considerat ion should be
given during operat ion, as well as
i n d e si gn s o t h a t t h e p il ot l a dd e r
does not foul the lower platform of
t h e a ccom m od a t ion la d de r or
become detached.
* I M P A r e c o m m e n d s t h a t a 9 - m e t r e
mar k be indicated so that the pilot
ca n r ea dily fin d wh et h er t h e
distance from sea level to the point
of a ccess exceeds 9 metres or not.
The pilot ladder should be rigged immediately
adjacent to the lower platform of the
accommodation ladder.
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The following points should be
t a k e n in t o a ccou n t w h en
indicating t his ma rk:
- T h e 9 - m e t r e m a r k s h o u l d b e
i n di ca t e d on t h e s h ip 's s id e
below the point of a ccess a s
depicted in the figure.
- W h en t h e bu lwa r k is t o b e
cl im b ed ov er , m e a s u r e m en t
for t h e 9 -m e t r e cr it e r ion
should be taken from the top
of the bulwark.
- I t i s n o t r e q u i r e d t o t a k e t h e
li s t in g of t h e s h ip in t o
consideration.
- An y sh ip for wh ich t he
distan ce from sea level t o the
p oi n t of a cce ss i n h e r l ig h t
l oa d con d it i on d oe s n ot
e x c e e d 8 m e t r e s m a y
d i s p e n s e w i t h t h e
r e qu ir e m en t for t h e 9 m e t r e
m a r k .
* As "the other equally safe and
c o n v e n i e n t m e a n s , " t h e
fol low in g a r r a n g e m e n t i s
accepted.
P i lot E m b a r k a t ion L a dd er
System (PELS): A tra pdoor is
provided at the lower platform
of a n a ccom m od a t i on l a d de r
through which a pilot ladder is
led thereth rough.
Securing of the pilot ladder
* If the pilot ladder is lashed securely with the lower platform of the accommodationladder to ensure their firm connection, it might result in the danger involving the
9-metre mark
PELS
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p il ot la d de r t w is t in g or p a r t in g b y b ein g p u lle d b y t h e lowe r p la t for m of t h e
accommodation ladder when the ship lists or when the height of the accommodation
ladder is adjusted. In the case of a high-freeboard ship for which the distance from
s ea le vel t o t h e p oin t of a cce ss e xcee ds 9 m et r es , t h er e is a p r oba bilit y of
non-compliance with the requirements of SOLAS, because the lower platform of the
accommodation ladder moves far from the ship's side due to a slight roll or list of
the ship. To prevent such a danger, IMPA and JPA recommend that the pilot ladder
an d th e a ccomm odat ion ladder be conn ected by th e following procedure:
- The pilot ladder should be secured to the ship's side by a suitable means at a point
1 to 1.5 metres above the lower platform of the accommodation ladder.
- Such a fixture is normally attained if an eye-plate welded to the side shell of the
s h i p i s u s e d , b u t u s e o f a s u n k e n b i t t e m b e d d e d i n t h e s h e l l p l a t i n g p r o v i d e s t h e
b es t s ol u t ion . I f P E L S i s u s e d, s a fe p il ot t r a n s fe r i s e n s u r ed w it h ou t i n vol vi n g
these difficulties.
* In connection with the above, it is also recommended that the accommodation ladder
itself be secured to t he ship's side. The r ecommended procedure is to lash a sunken
b it t e m b ed d ed i n t h e s t r i n ge r for m i n g t h e s id e of t h e a ccom m od a t i on l a dd e r i n
c o n t a c t w i t h t h e s i d e s h e l l a n d a n o t h e r s u n k e n b i t t e m b e d d e d i n t h e s i d e s h e l l o f
t h e s hip a t a p oin t a p pr oxim a t ely on e m et r e a bove t h e lowe r p la t for m . F or
d et e r m in i n g t h e s ecu r i n g p os it ion , s ee "H e igh t of t h e low er p la t for m of t h e
accommodation ladder."
Position of accommodation ladder
.2 T he a ccom m od a t ion la d der s ha ll be s it ed lea d in g a ft . Wh en in u s e,
the lower end of the accommodation ladder shall rest firmly against the ship's
s i d e w i t h i n t h e p a r a l l e l b o d y l e n g t h o f t h e s h i p a n d , a s f a r a s i s p r a c t i c a b l e ,
within the mid-ship half length and clear of all discharges;
* The reason for the requirement "The a ccommodation ladder shall be sited leading
a ft " is t h a t p ilot t r a n sfe rs , in m a n y ca se s, a r e ca r r ie d ou t wh ile t h e s h ip is
proceeding ah ead, and if it is sited leading forward, t hen the pilot boat might get in
below t he accomm odat ion ladder, which is da ngerous.
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Stern - BowProper example Dangerous example
Position of accommodation ladder
4. Access to the ship's deck
4 Access to the ship's deck
Means shall be provided t o ensure safe, convenient and unobstructed pa ssage
for a n y p e r son e m ba r k i n g o n , o r d is em b a r k in g fr om , t h e s h ip b et w ee n t h e
head of the pilot ladder, or of any accommodation ladder or other appliance,
and the ship's deck. Where such passage is by means of:.1 a gateway in the rails or bulwark, adequate handholds shall be provided;
.2 a b u lw a r k l a dd e r , t w o h a n d h ol d s t a n ch i on s r i gi dl y s e cu r e s t o t h e s h ip 's
s t r u c t u r e a t o r n e a r t h e i r b a s e s a n d a t h i g h e r p o i n t s s h a l l b e f i t t e d . T h e
bu lwa r k la dd er sh a ll be secu r ely a t t ach ed t o t h e s hip t o p reven t
overturning.
5.2 a bulwark ladder, such ladder should be securely attached to the ship to
p r e ve n t ove r t u r n i n g. T wo h a n d h ol d s t a n ch i on s s h ou l d b e fi t t e d a t t h e
point of embarking on or disembarking from the ship on each side which
s h o u l d b e n o t l e s s t h a n 0 . 7 m o r m o r e t h a n 0 . 8 m a p a r t . E a c h s t a n c h i o n
s h o u l d b e r i g i d l y s e c u r e d t o t h e s h i p ' s s t r u c t u r e a t o r n e a r i t s b a s e a n d
a l s o a t a h i g h e r p o i n t , s h o u l d b e n o t l e s s t h a n 3 2 m m i n d i a m e t e r a n d
s h ou ld ext en d n ot le ss t h a n 1.2 m a bove t h e t op of t h e bu lwa r k s.
Stanchions or h andra ils should not be a tta ched to th e bulwark ladder.
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Access through the gateway Access over bulwark ladder
in the bulwark or handrail
* IMPA recommends that the following requirements be observed:
- A cce ss p oi n t s s h a l l b e p r ov id e d on e a ch s id e of t h e s h ip . T h e r e a s on for t h i s
requirement is derived from the need for pilot transfers to be carried out on the lee
side.
- The positions of the access points shall be marked with thick lines with permanent
clear signs stating "NO OBSTRUCTIONS" These ar eas of the ship sha ll be k ept
free an d clear at all times.
- A s a fe p a s sa g e s h a ll b e s e cu r e d b et w ee n t h e a cce ss p oi n t s a n d t h e n a v ig a t ion
bridge. The passage shall be cleaned of slippery ice, or oil.
5. Shipside doors
5 Shipside doors
Shipside doors used for pilot transfer shall not open outwards.
* If the shipside doors are allowed to open outwards, it is difficult to lock the doors at
their open positions, and they might collide with the superstructure of the pilot boat,
w h ich i s d a n g er ou s . F or t h e s e r e a s on s , t h e s h ip si de d oor s a r e r e qu i r ed t o op en
inwards. The old SOLAS does not specify any requirem ents of the shipside doors.
* For large container ships and pure car carriers on which the point of access to, or
egress from the ship exceeds 9 m etres from sea level, IMPA stat es it is desirable to
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provide side doors, a nd prescribes its sta nda rds as follows:
- Consideration shall be given so that operations for the pilot boat to come alongside
the ship and pilot transfer do not involve danger.
- The ship side door shall not open outwards.
- T h e s i z e o f t h e s i d e d o o r s h a l l b e 2 o r m o r e m e t r e s h i g h a n d 1 . 5 o r m o r e m e t r e s
wide.
- The ladder used in conjunction with the side door shall meet the requirements of
SOLAS.
- The safety of passage from the side door to the navigation bridge shall be ensured.
(P u r e ca r ca r r i e r s, i n p a r t i cu l a r , h a v e com p le x p a s sa g ew a ys a n d a l ow ce il in g
height, and special attention shall be paid.)
* If the height above sea level of the lower edge of the shipside door for pilot transfer
is insufficient, the deck of a pilot boat, which heaves up and down in waves, can rise
a b ove t h e l ow er e d ge of t h e s h ip s id e d oor p r e cl u di n g s a fe p il ot t r a n s fe r . T h e
J apa nese Pilots' Association m akes th e recomm endat ions specified below, alth ough
SOLAS pr escribes no r equirement s:
- Although the safe height of the lower edge of the shipside door varies depending
upon the size of a pilot boat and wave heights, it is desirable to design the height
to be 5 metres above the load line if we consider a case in which a tug is used in
h i gh w a ve s. H ow ev er , for con t a i n e r s h ip s a n d p u r e ca r ca r r i e r s e qu i pp ed w it h
shipside doors whose load lines are rarely reached and a sufficient height cannot be
provided at the lower edge of the shipside door for structural reasons, a height of 3
metres above t he load line might impose no pra ctical problem, except in special
cases.
6. Mechanical pilot hoists
The mechanical pilot hoist has been prescribed as the pilot transfer arrangement.
However, it is necessary to observe "the Resolution on Mechan ical Pilot Hoist, the
XI t h I MP A C on g r es s 1 99 2" a s b el ow b y p r ov id in g a com b in a t i on l a dd er t o e n s u r e
efficient ship operation.
Resolution on Mechanical Pilot Hoist
at the Xlth Congress 1992
of th e Intern at iona l Maritime Pilots' Association
T h e C on gr e ss , con s id er in g t h e r e a son s d es cr ib ed in t h e a t t a ch e d p a pe r ,
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CONFIRMED that:
Whether or not a pilot uses a mechanical pilot hoist to transfer to/from a ship is
ultimately at each pilot's discretion and REQUEST shipowners and shipbuilders
t h a t :
E ve ry s hip wit h a t r a n sfe r h eigh t in e xces s of n in e m et r es s ha ll be
equipped with a combination ladder. In addition a pilot hoist complete
with pilot ladder alongside ma y also be pr ovided.
exhibit
1. In order to observe sub-paragraph (f) (v) of the revised text of Regulation 17,
C h a p t er V, S OL AS 1 97 4, i t i s n e ce ss a r y t o r i g a p il ot l a dd e r a d ja ce n t t o a
mechan ical pilot hoist. Conversely, it is n ecessary t o rig a pilot ladder and
h o i s t f a r e n o u g h a p a r t f r o m e a c h o t h e r s o t h a t t h e e n d s o f t h e s p r e a d e r o f
b ot h a r r a n g em e n t s d o n ot t ou ch e a ch ot h e r . I f t h e t w o a r r a n g em e n t s a r e
rigged closely, the hoist cannot be raised or lowered safely.
Accordingly, the text is impossible to perform.
[Reference] Revised text of Regulation 17, Chapter V, SOLAS
(f) Mechanical pilot hoists
(v ) A p i lot l a dd er s h a l l b e a d ja ce n t t o t h e m e ch a n i ca l p il ot h oi st a n d b e
a v a il a bl e f or i m m ed ia t e u s e s o t h a t a cce ss t o i t i s a va i la b le fr om t h e
h oi st a t a n y p oi n t of i t s t r a v e l. T h e p il ot la d d er s h a l l b e ca p a b le of
reaching the sea level from its own point of access to the ship.
2. H oists involve the following dangers depending on the conditions of u se. A
num ber of accidents and dangerous incidents have been r eported in t he past.
a) Pilot cann ot know the condition of a hoist from outside if th e ship's crew
have neglected proper maintenance.
b ) P i lot ca n n o t k n ow b efor e h a n d i f t h e cr e w w il l b e a b le t o op er a t e a h oi st
properly.
c) In the case of a high freeboard ship, the following dangers can be expected.
- It is not easy for a hoist-operator on the deck to measure the height of the
lower end of a hoist and to control its height in relation to the tossing pilot
boat. Consequently, th e pilot might be jammed between the ship's side a nd
the pilot boat.
- I f a s h ip r ol ls , a p il ot on a h oi st i s i n d a n g er of s t r i k in g t h e s h ip 's s id e
b e c a u s e a h o i s t m i g h t s w i n g l i k e a l o n g p e n d u l u m a n d t h e s p r e a d e r s w i l l
not be effective in preventing twisting.
3 . I n ca s e a p il ot r e je ct s u s e o f a h oi st u n d e r t h e r e a s on s s t a t e d i n 2 ., a s h ip
which ha s n o combinat ion ladder would be compelled t o stop na vigating.
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* The new SOLAS h as prescribed a s "6.5 A pilot ladder shall be rigged adjacent to
the hoist and available for immediate use so that access to it is available from the
hoist a t any point of its tr avel. The pilot ladder shall be capable of reaching th e sea
level from its own point of access to the ship."
* However, when th e hoist is u sed with a pilot ladder rigged adjacent to it , spreaders
of both the hoist and the pilot ladder into touch with each other, causing dangers
lifting and lowering of the hoist.
* Accor d in gly, I MP A r ecom m en ds t h a t t h e p ilot la dd er com bin ed wit h t h e
accommodation ladder should be rigged and used a s a safer means of pilot tra nsfer,
in the poster approved by IMO titled "REQUIRED BOARDING ARRANGEMENTS
FOR P ILOT"
Position of mechanical pilot hoist
3 .3 .3 a m e ch a n i ca l p i lot h oi st s o loca t e d t h a t i t i s w it h i n t h e p a r a l l el b od y
l en g t h of t h e s h ip a n d , a s fa r a s i s p r a c t ica b le , w it h i n t h e m i d -s h ip h a l f
length of the ship and clear of all discharges.
* The position for rigging the mechanical pilot hoist shall be the same as for other
pilot tra nsfer a rra ngements.
6 .1 T h e m e ch a n i ca l p i lot h oi st a n d i t s a n c il la r y e q u ip m e n t s h a l l be o f a t y pe
approved by the Administration. The pilot hoist shall be designed to operate
as a moving ladder to lift and lower one person on the side of the ship, or as a
platform to lift and lower one or more persons on the side of the ship. It shall
be of s uch d es ign a n d con st r u ct ion a s t o en s ur e t h a t t h e p ilot ca n be
e m ba r k e d a n d d is em b a r k e d i n a s a fe m a n n e r , i n cl u di n g a s a fe a cce ss fr om
the hoist to the deck and vice versa. Such access shall be gained directly by a
platform securely guarded by handrails.
* On the basis of the resolution of IMPA mentioned above, the mechanical pilot hoist
should be provided as an option, and when used, the requirements of A889 shall be
complied with in accordance with "1 Application 1.2" of the new SOLAS.
* Typ es of m ech a n ica l p ilot h ois t t o b e a p pr oved b y t h e Min is t ry of L an d ,I n fr a s t r u ct u r e a n d T r a n sp or t of J a p a n a r e p r es cr ib ed by t h e R egu la t i on s for
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E q u ip m e n t of S h i p s a n d t h e R eg u la t i on s for t h e E n for ce m en t of t h e S h ip S a fe t y
Law.
* There ar e t wo types of mecha nical pilot hoists as follows:
- A moving ladder to lift and lower one person on the side of the ship
- A platform to lift and lower one or more persons on the side of the ship
T h e for m e r h a s con ve n t ion a l ly b ee n u s ed , w hi le t h e la t t e r h a s r e ce n t ly b ee n
d eve lop ed a n d is u s ed on a lim it e d n u m b er of s h ip s, w h ich is ca l le d a P ilot
Embarkation Platform System (PEPS).
* A platform with han drail shall be provided between th e t op of the h oist and the deck
for the safe transfer.
PEPS
Emergency hand gear
6 .2 E ffi ci en t h a n d ge a r s h a l l be p r o vi de d t o l ow er or r e cov er t h e p er s on or
persons carried, and kept ready for use in the event of power failure.
* The mechanical pilot hoist becomes inoperable upon a power failure. Efficient hand
ge a r s h a l l, t h e r e for e , b e p r ov id ed s o t h a t t h e p il ot ca n b e l i ft e d t o t h e d eck or
lowe re d t o t h e p ilot b oa t e ve n in t h e eve nt of p owe r fa ilu r e. I n t h e ca s e of
high-freeboard ships, however, it takes time to lift/lower the hoist, and hence, it is
necessary to rig the pilot ladder in conjunction therewith as prescribed in the later
part of 6.5.
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Rigging of hoist and means for ships equipped with belting
6.3 Th e h oist s ha ll be s ecu r ely a t t ach ed t o t h e st r u ct u re of t h e sh ip.
Attachment shall not be solely by means of the ship's side rails. Proper and
strong attachment points shall be provided for hoists of the portable type on
each side of the ship.
6.4 If belting is fitted in the way of the hoist position, such belting shall be cut
back sufficiently to allow the hoist to operate against the ship's side.
* If belting is fitted to the shipside, smooth motions of the hoist is hampered, and in
the worst case, part ing might result. Belting shall t herefore be cut back sufficiently
to allow the hoist to operate against the ship's side.
Rigging of the pilot ladder
6 .5 A p ilot la d de r s h a ll b e r igge d a d ja ce n t t o t h e h ois t a n d a va i la b le for
immediate use so that access to it is available from the hoist at any point of
its travel. The pilot ladder shall be capable of reaching the sea level from its
own point of access t o the ship.
* I n t h e e v e n t t h a t t h e h o i s t s t o p s a s m e n t i o n e d i n 6 . 2 , t h e p i l o t s h a l l b e a l l o w e d t o
transfer rapidly to the pilot ladder from any position of the hoist. For this reason,
t h e p il ot l a dd er m u s t b e r i gg ed i n a d va n ce a t a p os it i on w it h i n t h e t r a n s f er a b le
distance from the hoist.
* The pilot ladder used in such a case must be long enough to cover the distance from
sea level to the point of access to, or egress from the ship, and is equipped with a
full set of steps all the way through, even if the distance exceeds 9 metres.
Indication of the hoisting position on the ship's side
6 .6 T h e p os it ion on t h e s h ip 's s id e w he r e t h e h ois t wi ll b e low er e d s h a ll b e
indicated.
* The position on the ship's side where t he hoist will be lowered shall be indicated
wi t h cl ea r a n d t h i ck m a r k in gs s o t h a t t h e p il ot b oa t w ill n ot m is s t h e p oin t of access.
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* This indication is required to be provided above the load line but as low as possible
so that pilot boat crew can easily find th e m ark.
Protective stowage and means in very cold weather
6.7 An adequate protected stowage position shall be provided for the porta ble
hoist. In very cold weather, to avoid the danger of ice formation, the portable
hoist shall not be r igged u ntil its u se is imminent.
* The hoist shall be stowed in a sufficiently enclosed place to protect the function of
the hoist.
Requirements of the mechanical pilot hoists
* Mechan ical pilot hoists are more complicated mechan ical arr angements tha n pilot
la d de r s, a n d t h e follow in g d et a i le d r eq u ir e m en t s wi t h a w id er cove r a ge a r e
prescribed in par agraph 4 of A889. See the relevant para graph for deta ils.
4.1 Location and maintenance
4.2 Construction of hoist
4.3 Mechanically powered winch
4.4 Controls
4.5 Fa lls
4.6 Ladder or platform section
4.7 Opera tion of th e h oist
4.8 Testing
7. Associated equipment
7 .1 T h e fol lowi n g a s socia t e d e qu ip m en t s h a ll b e k ep t a t h a n d r e a dy for
immediate use when persons are being t ran sferred;
.1 two man-ropes of not less than 28 mm in diameter properly secured to the
ship if required by the pilot;
* The diameter of man -ropes is prescribed to be n ot less t han 28 mm . If it is too large,
however, difficulties would be experienced by pilots with small hands. The diameter
of 28 mm, therefore, is desirable. (In the old SOLAS, Two man ropes are prescribed
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as "not less than 65 millimetres in circumference")
* A m a n -r op e u se d m a in ly wh en t h e p ilot d is em ba r k s t h e s hip is con ven ien t ,
particularly in foul weather, because he can slide down rapidly without altering his
grip. It, t herefore, is n ecessary to m ake the length of the man -rope equal to th e pilot
ladder, applying neither rope covers nor making knots.
* Although many pilots do not use man-ropes, positioning of unused man-ropes in such
a case might interfere with pilot transfers. It, therefore, is necessary to follow the
instr uctions of the pilot on th e pr eferred disposition.
* Man-ropes shall be kept ready for use even in the case of combination ladders.
.2 a lifebuoy equipped with a self-igniting light;
.3 a h e a vi ng l in e .
* Lifebuoys shall be arr anged for accidenta l falling overboard of t he pilot, paying
at tent ion to t he following points:
- Lifebuoys shall be kept ready for use even in daytime.
- Lifebuoys shall not be connected to the
s hip s t r u ct u r e wit h a lin e. P ilot
t r a n s fe r s a r e u s u a l ly ca r r i e d o u t w h il e
the ship is proceeding, and if lifebuoys
are connected, they can come free from
the pilot.
- T h e s elf-ign it i n g l igh t s h a ll b e
conn ected to t he lifebuoy with a line.
- Wh e n fa l li n g ov er b oa r d of t h e p il ot i s n ot i ce d, t h e l ife bu oy s h a l l b e t h r ow noverboard immediately. Prompt action is importa nt because the distan ce from t he
Lifebuoy should not be
attached to the ship.
Lifebuoy fitted with
a self-igniting light
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pilot rapidly increases. Pa rticularly a t night, the self-igniting light connected to
the lifebuoy serves as the sole means to identify the position of the pilot, so it is
necessary to throw the lifebuoy in the proximity of the pilot.
* The heaving line is used t o hau l in a pilot who has fallen overboard. In man y cases,
i t i s u s e d for t r a n s fe r r in g t h e p il ot ' s b el on g in g s. T h e h e a vi n g l i n e s h a l l b e k e pt
ready for use with the following points in mind:
- SOLAS does not provide any requirements for the material and dimensions of the
heaving line, but a buoyant and flawless line with a diameter of approximately 10
millimetres and a length the twice of the pilot ladder should be used.
- When used as a heaving line, it is suggested that one end of the line be belayed at
the ship structure to prevent possible drifting and loss.
8. Lighting
Adequate lighting shall be provided to illuminate the transfer arrangements
overside, the position on deck where a person embarks or disembarks and the
controls of the mechanical pilot hoist.
* L i gh t i n g for t h e p il ot l a dd e r s h a l l
not be provided directly above, but
obliq ue ly fr om a b ove t o a void
d a zz li n g t h e p il ot a n d t h e cr e w o f
the pilot boat.
Lighting should be from aft.
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9. Other Important Items
(1) How to rig the pilot ladder to the ship
* The following are specified in lSO and JIS, although none are prescribed by SOLAS:
- ISO standar d specifies th at a single ma nila securing rope (of 20 mm diameter, 3
metres in length(minimum))shall be fitted to each side rope thimble by means of
an eye splice.
- JIS specifies that the pilot ladder shall be directly lashed tightly with a ring plate
provided near the ship's side for exclusive service, with no other items connected.
It also specifies that when the full length of the pilot ladder is not used, each of
t h e t w o s t op pe r r op es w it h a n a d eq u a t e le n gt h s h a ll b e con n e ct e d t o a r igid
structure such as t he r ing plate using shackles t o rig the ladder firmly.
Shortening the pilot ladder in use
* In addition to the above, precautions shall be taken for the following points:
- The pilot ladder sha ll be adjusted and r igged so that each st ep on t he ship's side
is always kept level.
- I t s h all b e a s ce rt a in ed s o t h a t t h e p ilot la d de r d oes n ot in t er fer e wit h a n y
protru sions on th e ship's side. It is desirable that the safety of the rigging of the
pilot ladder be tested by weighing a crew member descending several steps after it
is r igged pr elimina rily.
- The pilot ladder shall always be rigged on the lee side of the ship against wind and
w a v e s . I t i s i m p o r t a n t t o a s c e r t a i n w h i c h s i d e o f t h e s h i p i s t h e l e e s i d e a t t h e
p il ot b oa r d i n g s t a t i on b efor e t h e s h ip a r r i ve s. I f n e ce ss a r y , t h e s h ip m u s t b e
m a n e u v er e d e ve n w it h s li gh t cou r s e a l t er n a t i on s s o t h a t a n a d e qu a t e l ee s id e
becomes available.
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- T h e p r e fe r r e d d is t a n ce b et w e en s ea l ev el a n d t h e l ow er e n d of t h e p il ot l a d de r
depends upon the size of the pilot boat used. As a rule of thumb, it ranges from
0 .5 t o 1 m e t r e for or d in a r y p il ot b oa t s , a n d 2 t o 3 m e t r e s f or t u g s. I n a n y e ve n t ,
the instructions of the pilot or the skipper of the pilot boat must be followed. The
d is t a n ce s h a l l b e m a d e s l ig h t ly l a r ge r t h a n t h e r e fe r en ce v a lu e i n r ou g h s ea s .
U n d er a n y ci r cu m s t a n c es , t h e l ow er e n d of t h e p il ot l a dd e r s h ou l d n ot b ecom e
a w a s h i n t h e w a t e r .
* It seems to be common practice today for the pilot ladder to be wound in a reel and
s t o w e d t o s a v e l a b o u r . I t i s u n w o u n d b y t u r n i n g t h e r e e l f o r u s e . I n s u c h a c a s e ,
the ladder should not rely on the braking force of the reel, but should be secured
firmly against the ship's structure as mentioned in "How to rig the pilot ladder to
th e sh ip" above.
(2) Retrieving lines to recover pilot ladders
* Recognizing a number of dangerous incidents involving pilot boats capsizing due to
being trapped by a hanging line in a loop with one end connected to the lower end of
the pilot ladder for recovery operation, IMPA recommends that such a line should
not be used.
* Th e Min is t ry of T ra n sp or t (exis t in g;
Min is t ry of L an d, I nfr a st r u ct u r e a n d
T r a n s por t ) of J a p a n t a k e s t h e s t a n ce t h a t
wh en fit t in g a lin e t o fa cilit a t e t h e
r e co v e r y o f t h e p i l o t l a d d e r i s
u n a v oi da b le , i t a p p r ove s u s e of t h e l in e
p r o v i d i n g t h a t a d e q u a t e s a f e t y
pr eca ut ion s a r e t a ken by m ak in g a
gr oove i n t h e a ft (s t e r n s id e) e n d of t h e
sp rea der wit h a dept h t h at d oes n ot
affect its str ength and service a nd fix the
rope thereto.
Retrieving lines are hazardous
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Bow Stern
Wrong example Approvable example
Fitting a retrieving line
(3) Transfer arrangements and passages in ships carrying on-deck timber cargoes
* For ships carrying on-deck timber or steel pipe cargoes, it is n orma lly difficult to
provide a safe passage on the deck. On the other hand, it is extremely dangerous to
transfer the pilot using the pilot ladder rigged on the curved hull near the stern of
t h e s h ip . I n t h i s con n e ct i on , J P A d ir e ct e d t h e foll ow in g r e qu e st s t o s h ip pin g
com p a n i es i n Ap r il 1 99 1 t o e n for ce , a s a t e n t a t i ve m e a s u r e s, t h e r e qu i r em e n t s
prescribed in SOLAS to rig the pilot ladder within the parallel body length of the
s h ip a n d w it h i n t h e m id sh i p h a lf le n gt h , w hi le a d dr e ss in g it s r e qu e st s t o t h e
Ministry of Transport to conduct an extensive review on the laws and regulations
for ensuring the safety of pilot transfer.
Requirement for ensuring the safety of pilots in embarking on
or disembarking from ships carrying on-deck timber cargoes
1. Ship with breadth 22.5m or over
Provide a recess of 1.5 square metres at the point of access near the bulwark
of the ship.
Provide passages that do not conflict with the interpretation of ICLL. Ships
o t h e r t h a n n e w l y b u i l t s h i p s a r e a l s o r e q u e s t e d t o a d o p t t h e s e m e a s u r e s a s
soon as possible. And, until improved, the measures described in Chapter 2
can be taken.
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2. Ship with breadth under 22.5m
I n c a s e a s h i p c a n n o t t a k e t h e m e a s u r e s d e s c r i b e d i n C h a p t e r 1 o w i n g t o a
conflict with the interpretat ion of ICLL the pilot has to walk on the wood on
deck between the access point and the house of the ship.
Measures for such case are as follows;
Provide handholds at an access point on top of the wood in case measure
"1 - " ca n n ot b e t a k e n .
P i l o t l a d d e r s h a l l b e m a d e f a s t a t h e r b u l w a r k w h e n t h e t o t a l h e i g h t o f t h e
wood top from sea level exceed 9 metres.
In case the pilot is requested to transfer between access point and passage
on the wood top, a pilot ladder or an equally safe means shall be provided
and firmly secured.
Passage on wood top shall be flat.
Provide gangboard and han dholds at dangerous well part.
Provide means as described in ( for vertical transfers between wood top
and deck near the house.
Provide adequate lighting.
Provide spike over-shoes.
Pilot transfer shall be escorted by a responsible officer and a crew member.
N ot e : T h e s h ip 's b r ea d t h of 2 2.5 m e t r es w a s d et e r m in e d con s id er in g t h e
interpretat ion 1977 of Regulation 44 of the Interna tional Convention on
Load Lines, 1966 (ICLL) prescribing tha t the "breadth of ship side recess
shall be not more than 4% of the ship's breadth", and the breadth of ship
side recess of 90 centimetres desired by JPA.
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(4) Use of gangway ladders
* No specific requirements are provided in SOLAS on the gangway ladder used for
ship-shore transfer. The following simple requirements are provided in Articles 105
an d 115-27 of the Regulat ions for Equipmen t of Ships.
Requirements of the Regulations for Equipment of Ships
Ar t icle 10 5 P a ss en ge r sh ip s s ha ll be equ ip pe d wit h s u it a ble ga n gwa y
ladders and rigid gangway ladder h ooks. However, t he requirements may be
d is p en s e d w it h for s h ip s a s s ig n ed t o a coa s t a l a r e a of s er v ice or b el ow ,
providing that the competent maritime authority deems it to be appropriate.
T h e ga n gw a y l a d de r s p r es cr ib ed in ( ) a b ove s h a ll b e p r ovid ed w it h
h a n d r a i ls , a n d t h e ir r e a r s id e b e cov er e d w it h w ood en b oa r d s or ca n v a ssheets.
Ar t i cl e 11 5-2 7 T h e r e q u ir e m e n t s i n A r t icl e 1 05 a p p ly cor r e s pon d in g ly t o
s h i p s w i t h a g r o s s t o n n a g e o f n o t l e s s t h a n 3 0 0 t o n s o t h e r t h a n p a s s e n g e r
ships. However, the application of wooden boards or canvas sheets on the
rear side of the gangway ladders ma y be dispensed with.
* W h e n a p i l o t i s t r a n s f e r r e d b e t w e e n s h i p a n d s h o r e u s i n g t h e g a n g w a y l a d d e r , t h e
above requirements shall be observed, and, in addition, precautions shall be taken
for th e following point s:
- Guide ropes or handrails must be rigged securely.
- The lower platform of the gangway ladder shall be horizontal.
- During transfer of the pilot, the gangway ladder shall not be moved.
* The pilot ladder shall, in principle, be u sed for the tra nsfer of the pilot between t he
ship and the pilot boat. However, th e gangway ladder may be used if the sea is calm
w it h ou t w a ve s a n d s we ll s, a n d t h e p il ot a p p r ov es t h e u s e of i t . I n t h i s ca s e , i t i s
necessary to take safety precautions including adequate adjustment of the distance
between sea level and the lower platform of the gangway ladder, in addition to those
ment ioned above.
(5) Measures against ships not conforming to SOLAS
* For ships committing minor offences of the SOLAS requirements, a notice is directed
t o t h e m a s t er of t h e s h ip r e qu e st in g h i m t o im p r ove t h e d eficie n cy. F or s h ip s
com m it t in g m or e s er iou s offe nces or t h os e n egle ct in g t h e r equ es t for a n
improvement, rendering of pilotage services may be r efused in accordance with the
provisions of Article 6 of the Pilotage Agreement.
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APPENDIX
Provisions of the relevant conventions and recommendations
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CHAPTER V Application
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974
CHAPTER V SAFETY OF NAVIGATION
Regulation 1 Application
1 U n l es s e xp r e ss ly p r o vi de d ot h e r w is e, t h i s c h a p t er s h a l l a p p ly t o a l l s h ip s on a l l
voyages, except:
.1 wa r sh ip s, n a va l a u xilia r ies a n d ot h er sh ip s own ed or op er a t ed by a
Cont ra cting Governmen t an d u sed only on governmen t non-comm ercial service;
a n d.2 ships solely n avigating the Great Lakes of North America and their connecting
a n d t r i b u t a r y w a t e r s a s f a r e a s t a s t h e l o w e r e x i t o f t h e S t . L a m b e r t L o c k a t
Montreal in the Province of Quebec, Canada.
H ow eve r , w a r sh ip s, n a va l a u xilia r i es or ot h e r s h ip s ow n ed or op er a t e d by a
Contracting Government and used only on government non-commercial service are
e n cou r a g e d t o a ct i n a m a n n e r con s is t e n t , s o fa r a s r e a s on a b le a n d p r a ct i ca b le ,
with this chapter.
2 T h e Ad m in i st r a t i on m a y d e ci de t o w h a t e xt e n t t h i s c h a p t er s h a l l a p pl y t o sh i ps
op er a t i n g s ole ly in w a t er s la n d wa r d of t h e b a se lin e s w h ich a r e e st a b lis h ed in
accordance with international law.
3 A r i gi dl y c on n e ct e d com p os it e u n i t of a p u s h in g v es s el a n d a s s oci a t ed p u s h ed
Ve ss el , w h e n d es ign e d a s a d ed ica t e d a n d i n t eg r a t e d t u g a n d b a r ge com b in a t i on ,
shall be regarded as a single ship for the purpose of this chapter.
4 The Administra tion shall determine to what extent the provisions of regulations 15,
16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 do not apply to the following
categories of ships:
.1 ships below 150 gross t onn age en gaged on any voyage;
.2 ships below 500 gross tonnage not engaged on international voyages; and
.3 fishing vessels.
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NEW SOLAS
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974
CHAPTER V SAFETY OF NAVIGATION
Regulation 23 Pilot transfer arrangements
1 Application
1.1 S h ip s e n ga ge d on voya ges in t h e cou r se of w hich
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