Pay Attention To Defects in Pilot Boarding And Disembarking Devices!

The Tokyo Memorandum of Understanding (Tokyo MoU) recently issued a safety advisory, reminding the industry to pay close attention to the potential risks posed by improper maintenance and securing of pilot embarkation and disembarkation devices.

Data shows that the number of related deficiencies within the Tokyo MoU region has rapidly increased from 197 deficiencies and one detention in 2020 to 523 deficiencies and 12 detentions in 2024. This significant increase in the defect rate indicates that the problem is becoming increasingly serious.

The following issues remain prevalent:

• Failure to securely secure pilot ladders and gangways to the ship's side

• Inadequate locking of railing posts with locking pins

• Widespread lax maintenance of ladders

• Lack of clear marking and distinction between pilot ladders and other types of ladders

As an important channel for pilots to board and disembark from ships, the pilot ladder is mainly used to ensure the safe boarding and disembarking of pilots when the ship is sailing or anchored.

According to Regulation 23.3.3.1 of Chapter V of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), a pilot ladder must be used when the pilot embarkation and disembarkation height is between 1.5 and 9 meters. Its design, manufacture, and certification must strictly comply with the convention's requirements. All crew members should:

• Be able to accurately distinguish between a pilot ladder and other types of ladders

• Be familiar with proper securing procedures in accordance with SOLAS and IMO/ISO guidelines

• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the equipment is in good condition

• Maintain vigilance and proactiveness to avoid complacency in critical safety tasks

Pilot

Ladder

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