The Importance of Proper Accommodation Ladder Safety in the Maritime Industry

The accommodation ladder is a vital piece of equipment on any ship, providing safe and secure access for crew members, pilots, and shore-based personnel. However, ensuring that the accommodation ladder is fully in place and properly secured is crucial to prevent accidents. This article examines the lessons learned from a recent incident and discusses the importance of proper accommodation ladder safety in the maritime industry.

On November 6, 2017, the fully laden mini cape-size dry bulk carrier Orient Centaur was transiting the South Channel in Weipa, Queensland. The ship was equipped with a pilot ladder secured to the ship’s side at a point 1.5 meters above the bottom platform of the accommodation ladder, as required by SOLAS Chapter V, Reg. 23. Unfortunately, the pilot ladder was not properly secured to the accommodation ladder, resulting in a near-miss incident.

Key Findings from the Incident Investigation

An investigation into the incident revealed several critical safety concerns:

• The accommodation ladder was not fully in place.
• The pilot ladder was not properly secured to the ship’s side.
• Attachments to non-load-bearing parts of the accommodation ladder and vessel structure.
• Inadequate tensile strength of ropes, wires, pulleys, and fittings.
• Arrangements that were not easily adjustable, posing additional safety risks when the accommodation ladder was lowered or raised to compensate for draught changes or tidal movements.

Preventive Measures for Enhanced Safety

To prevent similar incidents, ship owners and operators must ensure that accommodation ladders are properly maintained and secured. Here are some essential steps:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the accommodation ladder and its components to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Proper Securing: Ensure that the pilot ladder is properly secured to the ship’s side and the accommodation ladder.
• Safety Procedures: Implement procedures for the safe use of the accommodation ladder, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats and life jackets.
• Crew Training: Provide training to crew members on the safe use of the accommodation ladder.

Impact on the Maritime Industry

The importance of proper accommodation ladder safety cannot be overstated. A single incident can result in serious injury or even loss of life, as well as damage to the ship and its cargo. Furthermore, incidents involving accommodation ladders can have significant repercussions for the maritime industry, including:

• Delays and disruptions to shipping operations.
• Increased costs for ship owners and operators.
• Damage to the reputation of the maritime industry.

Environmental Considerations

While the incident in question did not result in any environmental damage, it is essential to consider the potential environmental impacts of accidents involving accommodation ladders. For example, a major accident could result in oil spills or other environmental damage, underscoring the need for stringent safety measures.

Summary

Proper accommodation ladder safety is paramount in the maritime industry. Ship owners and operators must ensure that their accommodation ladders are properly maintained and secured, and that crew members are trained in their safe use. By taking these steps, we can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer, more efficient maritime industry.

Conclusion

The maritime industry must prioritize accommodation ladder safety to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of crew members and shore-based personnel. Regular inspections, proper securing, safety procedures, and crew training are essential steps in achieving this goal. Additionally, the industry should consider implementing new technologies and innovations to enhance accommodation ladder safety. Regulatory bodies must continue to monitor and enforce safety regulations related to accommodation ladders to maintain high standards of safety in the maritime industry.

Recommendations

• Ship owners and operators should conduct regular inspections of their accommodation ladders and implement procedures for their safe use.
• Crew members should be trained in the safe use of accommodation ladders, including the use of PPE.
• The maritime industry should consider implementing new technologies and innovations to improve accommodation ladder safety.
• Regulatory bodies should continue to monitor and enforce safety regulations related to accommodation ladders.

By adhering to these recommendations, the maritime industry can significantly enhance safety standards and mitigate the risks associated with accommodation ladders.

List of Sources

• Lessons learned: Is the accommodation ladder fully in place?
• Lessons on Pilot and Accommodation Ladders – mfame.guru
• Safe means of access – RightSTORE
• Safe means of access – RightShip
• Accommodation Ladder Failures Are Rare, but Pose a Real Risk
• 202340 – Accommodation ladder not accommodating – Nautical Institute
• Real Life Incident: Ship Accommodation Ladders With Improvised …
• RightShip Safety Insights – Pilot and Accommodation Ladders
• ICS & IMPA Publish Updated Guidance On Pilot Transfer Arrangements
• Accommodation Ladder On Ships – Marine Insight