Article

“The Pilot Ladder Manual”, 2nd Edition by Kevin Vallance


by Kevin Vallance - published on 22 January 2024 3575 -

This publication details the rules, regulations and procedures that should be followed when preparing for pilot embarkation and disembarkation. It includes relevant excerpts from SOLAS regulations and IMO resolutions. The text is supported by explanatory photographs and diagrams that demonstrate good and bad practice.

This second edition supersedes both the basic and advanced editions of Pilot Ladder Manual.

This publication provides ship Masters and crew with a comprehensive understanding of the equipment, safety requirements and regulations necessary to conduct a proper risk assessment of pilot transfer operations.

Topics covered include the responsibilities of all personnel involved in pilot transfer, ladder construction and combination ladders, and examples of inadequate securing of a ladder. The guide explains the technical details of carrying out pilot transfer operations and includes important safety observations and comments. It includes text of SOLAS V, Regulation 23 Pilot Transfer Arrangements, IMO Resolution A.1045(27) on Pilot Transfer Arrangements, the UK Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers and the ISO 799 requirements for pilot ladders.

Introduction

Throughout the world, at any time of day or night, in good or adverse weather conditions, a number of marine pilots will be in transit either to or from vessels that they have been engaged to safely navigate from one location to another. Each of these pilots will need to be safely embarked or disembarked from their vessel. There are a number of ways in which this transfer operation can be completed, each involving a certain degree of risk.

It is critical that all involved in pilot transfer are fully aware of the dangers that exist. Only through effective training and education can pilot transfer operations be made safer, irrespective of the transfer method used.

Pilot embarkation and disembarkation normally take place when the vessel is underway or alongside a berth, but may also take place when the vessel is at anchor. Possible transfer methods include by pilot boat, helicopter or directly from the shore. Transfer may be facilitated by the vessel's accommodation ladder, gangway or vehicle ramp, or possibly by crane basket. However, the most common method is by traditional wooden pilot ladder, and this method of transfer is the main focus of this publication.

Despite the best efforts of the International Maritime Pilots' Association (IMPA), various regional and national pilot associations, and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), there continue to be far too many reports of poorly rigged or unsafe pilot ladders. In recent years, a significant number of pilots have been fatally or seriously injured as a direct result of accidents occurring during embarkation or disembarkation.

IMPA represents the international community of marine pilots and as such promotes effective safety outcomes in pilotage. Periodically, IMPA conducts safety campaigns which collate details of pilot transfer compliance in accordance with internationally agreed standards.

The aim of this publication is to remind all in the maritime industry of the vital importance of adhering to the rules and established procedures when preparing for embarkation and disembarkation of pilots.
KV
Pilot Transfer Arrangements, COLREG's active marine pilot


A self-employed deep sea pilot for the North Sea, with an interest in pilot transfer arrangements and COLREG's
What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Video Kittiwake Mersey Pilot

published on 22 December 2021

KITTIWAKE ( MMSI 232008570) is a Pilot and currently sailing under the flag of United Kingdom (UK) Here she is speeding down the River this morning.

0

Video Polaris Pilot Boat Antwerp Belgium

published on 15 March 2022

Vessel name: Polaris ; Year built: 2012 ; Flag: Netherlands ; Homeport: Rotterdam Length: 81.2m X 13.3m ; GRT: 2501 ; Callsign: PBZN ; MMSI:245142000 ; IMO: 9496915 Type: Special Vessel / Pilot Ship A "Pilot Ship / Pilot Vessel" is a "special type" of ship in which it accommodates a certain and limited Marine Pilots (Sea, River, Harbor Pilots), it also carries small boats/crafts that are used to tender services to and from the Pilot ship. In a Pilot Vessel, the Pilots can take their time...

1

Video Pilot Leaving Ship Vigo

published on 31 March 2023

0

Video Safety of Navigation vs. Commercial Pressure

published on 18 January 2021

Safety of Navigation vs. Commercial Pressure / ROMEILs Tv Commercial Pressures impacts the safety of the vessel, study says Seafarers are pressured to keep quiet and keep the ship moving by ship operators, who dont want to lose inccome. Ship's officers who bring safety issues to the attention of management are exposed to the risk of retaliation. As whistle-blowers they may face punishment, demotion or even termination. International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) has...

1

Article A review of the ship’s pivot point: Science, Maths and Observation’ Where is the centre of a ship’s rotation?

by Tim Cummins, Harbour Pilot, Portsmouth International Port - published on 17 July 2020

This my attempt to do just that. This is a summary of all scientific papers and articles that I could find about the ship’s pivot point. I have added links to any videos associated with the publications and have also included any useful diagrams or equations that the authors published to help explain their research.

0

Video How GPS works? Trilateration explained

published on 4 July 2019

How GPS works? Trilateration explained

0

Article The magnetic north pole migration - What a Pilot should know

by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 22 February 2019

The Arctic magnetic pole does not move anymore. It runs, faster and faster. In recent years, even faster than expected. Therefore, geo-researchers have now had an unscheduled change to their world model and adjust their calculations, so that navigation with compass and other navigation aids such as a Pilot Plug, used by pilots around the world, continue to work.

0

Article The NZMPA Good Practice Guide for Pilots 2021

published on 4 April 2022

The Good Practice Guide for Pilots 2021 describes the knowledge and skills (technical and non-technical) that the NZMPA believe all pilots should aim to achieve and maintain. It is written primarily for pilots for their own guidance and professional development, but can be used as a framework for pilot training, proficiency and assessment. It is referenced to NZ Maritime Law and Codes.

1

Video Stunning Aerial Footage of Houston Pilot Boat Yellow Rose Watch From Above at the Galveston Jetties

published on 20 February 2023

In this breathtaking drone video, we bring you an up-close and personal look at the Pilot Boat Yellow Rose in action. Watch as the skilled crew expertly maneuvers the vessel through the water, guiding large ships safely into port. With our high-quality aerial footage, you'll get a bird's-eye view of the Yellow Rose in action, as she weaves through the waves, making precise turns and executing complicated docking maneuvers. You'll be amazed at the precision and skill of the crew as they work...

0

Video Traveling on Crude Oil Tanker Seaways Yellowstone In The Gulf Of Mexico Open Sea to Port Aransas

published on 24 January 2023

Take a narrated journey with me on a large crude oil tanker ship. Starting from sea to taking pilot, entering the Port Aransas Jetties, to ending all fast and moored at dock near Corpus Christi Texas. In the video I film the Pilot Boarding the vessel while underway. Link To New Ships YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPACsIutgWlmrhrJ6JCmCIg For inquiries info@thirdcoastdrone.com Web https://www.thirdcoastdrone.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Third-...

0