Article

China wants to change pilot ladder regulations

published on 3 May 2022 - 1878 -

Show comment section |

Despite the current regulations describing the different types of pilotage transfers, there are still many non-compliant pilotage transfers today.

China has already submitted proposals to the IMO regarding changes to SOLAS, Chapter 23, and IMO A.1045(27) in early 2021.

At both MSC104 and MSC105 (which ended last week) there was no time to address this important issue. At MSC105, the intention was expressed to discuss this issue at the upcoming MSC106.

The attached PDF shows the proposal submitted by China to improve safety when transferring via pilot ladders.
The paper also discusses the so-called trapdoor arragements.

On LinkedIn these days, the internationally respected safety expert on pilot ladders, Capt. Arie Palmers assessed the submitted proposals as follows:
"Indeed it is better to take enough time to discuss this important and urgent matter. Not just the footnotes in SOLAS chV reg.23 and IMO A.1045(27) need to be amended; there is a lot more to change as you might know. Indeed a very good paper forwarded by China last year."

Click to download PDF

Download: Chinas proposals to the IMO (PDF)

What's your opinion on this?

Article Podcast: Maritime Pilot Safety and reducing the risk in pilot transfer operations

published on 4 July 2023

This is an in-depth discussion of the risks involved in maritime pilot transfers; an interesting job but with a risky commute to work.

Article Combinations Ladders: "1,000 combinations around" (by Arie Palmers)

by Arie Palmers, Netherlands - published on 13 July 2020

Before you, you see my third article on pilot boarding arrangements. After my two previous articles
(‘1000 ways to secure a pilot ladder’ and ‘1000 ladders around’, I have received a lot of feedback and
also questions to get deeper into the matter of combinations and embarkation platforms.

Article Murphy's law on pilot boarding - Arie Palmers

by Arie Palmers - published on 20 July 2021

"Anything that can go wrong will go wrong."

Opinion New guidance for PBAs with trapdoors. Released 4.11.2020 by NZMPA

by New Zealand Maritime Pilot's Association - published on 6 November 2020

New guidance for PBAs with trapdoors. Released 4.11.2020 at NZMPA Conference in Dunedin, NZ. Distinct difference to suggestions in many other countries, is that we challenge operators who have the ladder suspended from the accommodation ladder (gangway) and not secured to the ship. SOLAS states that pilot ladder shall be secured to the ship, and securing strongpoints, shackles and ropes shall be as strong as the sideropes.

Article Pilot Walter del Río: "I work 24 hours and book the next four days".

published on 19 October 2021

Experiences of a Pilot: The port's chief pilot talks about his work, "what we do is not well known in the city", and about the risk they run, "on a bad day we can get scared", he says.

Video Marine pilot boat | valencia pilot

published on 6 April 2021

Marine Pilot leaving our ship during night in valencia port harbour.

Video Pilot change

published on 25 October 2020

Pilot change at vicinity of trio's river upbound to montreal

Article Harken presents the new man overboard recovery system

by Harken - published on 22 July 2024

Harken Safety & Rescue has unveiled an innovative man overboard recovery system designed to improve safety on vessels. Developed in collaboration with Genoa Port Pilots, this system offers a solution for rescuing overboard personnel efficiently.

Article Seven questions for Capt. Gajanan Karanjikar, President at All India Maritime Pilots Association

published on 22 April 2021

In our new section “Five questions for ..." Marine-Pilots.com introduces pilots and other market players to our readers in short interviews. Today we have seven questions!

We have talked to Capt. Gajanan Karanjikar, President at All India Maritime Pilots association

Video IZ 1150 AL Pilot Boat by Izmir Shipyard

published on 27 February 2026

Made from marine-grade aluminum, the IZ 1150 AL Pilot Boat supports propellers, water jets, or outboard engines. Its central wheelhouse gives great visibility, and shock-absorber seats for six ensure comfort. With a GM-designed hull, it reaches up to 30 knots, offering speed and easy control. 🌐 www.izmirshipyard.com Passionate about the sea, innovation, and quality craftsmanship. 🌊 #IzmirShipyard #pilotboat #MaritimeExcellence #TurkishShipbuilding #NewVessel #EngineeringMarvel...