Maritime pilots worldwide use pilot ladder arrangements to board and disembark from ships. When using a ladder, they depend on the safety measures in place. However, improper use can pose serious risks, with the IMO noting that pilot ladders are a common cause of transfer accidents. International regulations have established requirements for pilot boarding arrangements to ensure safe operations and minimize risks.
This course will guide you through the IMO and SOLAS regulations, including the latest SOLAS V/23 amendments, which are expected to be approved in December 2024, adopted in June 2025, and come into force in January 2028. You will also learn best practices for pilot ladders and transfer arrangements, helping to ensure the safety of you and your colleagues.
Highlights:
This course aims to provide learners with the fundamental understanding, knowledge and skills, in order to be familiar with the operation, inspection and maintenance of pilot ladders and related equipment. By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the importance of proper use of pilot ladders in safe transfers.
- Comprehend the regulations and guidelines for pilot ladder and transfer arrangements.
- Recognize the hazards associated with pilot ladder and transfer arrangements and how to mitigate them.
- Grasp best practices for pilot ladder rigging, transfer arrangements, inspection, and maintenance.
Legislation & References: Based on the requirements of the following:
- SOLAS Convention, Chapter V, Regulation 23.3.3: “Pilot Transfer Arrangements”
- · IMO Resolution A.1045(27): “Code of Practice for the Safety of Pilot Transfer Arrangements”
- · IMO Resolution A.1108(29): “Amendments to the Revised Recommendations for the Prevention of Accidents in Connection with the Transfer of Personnel Between Ships and Boats at Sea”
- · MSC.1/Circ. 1428 – Pilot Transfer Arrangements – Required boarding arrangements for pilots
- · MSC.1/Circ.1495/Rev.1. – Unified Interpretation of SOLAS Regulation V/23.3.3 on Pilot Transfer Arrangements
- · ISO 799-1:2019
- · ISO 799-2:2021
- · ISO 799-3:2022
- · Latest SOLAS V/23 amendments (expected to be approved in December 2024, adopted in June 2025, and come into force in January 2028)
Additional Resources:
- · The Bahamas Maritime Authority – Pilot Boarding Arrangements · https://pilotladdersafety.com/
- · AMSA: Pilot Transfer arrangements
Duration: 1 hour.
Who should attend: Αll seafarers regardless of department and rank, taking part in pilot transfer operations, or pilot ladder equipment check, inspection, and maintenance.
Certificate: ABS
