Use of Magnetic Securing Devices for Pilot Ladder Transfer Operations

Magnetic securing devices used for pilot transfer must meet safety standards, be properly maintained, and used as per manufacturer’s guidelines.

1. MARINERS ARE HEREBY REMINDED that in the interest of pilot and crew safety, any vessel operating within the jurisdiction of the Milford Haven Port Authority and intending to use magnetic securing devices (magnets) as part of pilot ladder or accommodation ladder arrangements must ensure such equipment complies with the manufacturer's ISO industry standards and meets relevant SOLAS expectations.
   • All magnets must be clearly marked with their load rating and serial number.
   • Magnets are to be used solely as supplementary securing aids and must not replace fixed rigging or securing methods as specified in the vessel’s approved rigging plan.
   • It must be used in full accordance with the manufacturer’s prescribed guidelines and instructions.
2. All devices must be tested, maintained and stored appropriately prior to use in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines, and included in the vessel’s planned maintenance system, with valid maintenance records and certificates available for inspection. (Sample pictures are provided below for reference).                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Reference for Good Maintenance, Storage & Use of Magnets                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Reference for Poor Maintenance, Storage & Use of Magnets                                                                                                                                                                                                     
3. Pilot and accommodation ladder magnets, like any magnet, will lose their strength over time. Various factors contribute to the loss in magnetic strength, depending on the type of magnet, including among others:
   • High temperatures.
   • Physical damage: Impacts or vibrations.
   • Electromagnetic interference: High levels of electromagnetic fields generated by strong electrical currents can reduce a magnet's strength.
   • Corrosion: Magnets made of iron can rust if not coated or protected. Over time, corrosion can compromise their structure and reduce their magnetism.
   • Keep ladder magnets in a protected environment and, if possible, one with stable temperature control.
   • Maintain ladder magnets by eliminating rust and protecting them from impacts.
4. When in doubt, since judging magnet strength is difficult under operational conditions, replace old pilot/accommodation ladder magnets with new ones.
5. This Notice will self-cancel at 23:59 on 31st December 2025 and be included in the Port’s Annual Standing Notice to Mariners, effective from 1st January 2026.
6. This Notice supersedes Notice to Mariners 061 of 2025. 

BY ORDER
M RYAN
HARBOURMASTER

Port of Milford Haven
Gorsewood Drive
Hakin
Milford Haven
Pembrokeshire
SA73 3EP

Tel: 01646 696100
Email: enquiries@mhpa.co.uk