Pilot Ladder (30 month) Testing and Certification - All vessels are expected to comply with latest SOLAS Regulations, IMO Conventions and ISO Standards.
It is recognised that pilot ladder construction and testing remains a vital part of ensuring pilot ladder usage remains as safe as possible, combined with routine checking that has been a fundamental underpinning of the SOLAS Chapter V / Reg 23 for many a year.
What (may) not be so widely apparent is that there is a need for certification and testing as per IMO Resolution A.1045(27), ISO 799-1:2019 which requires a ladder and step attachment strength test and certification to take place at intervals not more than 30 months apart.
It is not unusual that through routine checks a ladder will be replaced before the 30 month anniversary, however if it is still felt by the master that the ladder is still in good operational condition, then it must be retested as per the regulations and recertificated with the ID of the test organisation exhibited on the ladder and matching certificate.
At some point in the near future, an update to the Masters Declaration (Schedule 2) which will take place specifically asking the question regarding this important safety matter.
Notwithstanding this, Pilots and pilot boats may refuse to service vessels whose pilot transfer arrangements they consider to be unsafe.
A copy of the Milford Haven “Pilot Boarding Arrangement Requirements” booklet and the IMO/IMPA ‘Required Boarding Arrangements for Pilots’ Wheelhouse Poster are available on the Milford Haven website within the Marine Services section https://www.mhpa.co.uk/our-services/marine-services
This notice will expire on 31st Dec 2023 and which point it will be incorporated within Annual Standing Notice No26 – Pilot Boarding.
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