Hazard hunt: pilot ladders and gangways
What happened?
A member has taken a focus on pilot ladders and gangways, following an incident where a gangway collapsed, causing the death of the pilot. In that particular incident, a gangway wire parted causing the gangway to pivot at the top platform hinge and fall into the sea.
What lessons were learned?
Our member noted the following:
- Accommodation ladders and gangways, and associated fittings, should be properly maintained and inspected at appropriate intervals;
- When accommodation ladders and gangways are rigged, checks should be made for signs of distortion, cracks, or corrosion;
- Care should be taken to ensure all moving parts are moving freely and are lubricated as necessary;
- Checks should be made of any lifting equipment or wires;
- Examine the underside of accommodation ladders and gangways at regular intervals;
- Rigging and derigging of accommodation ladders and gangways should be conducted under appropriate supervision.
Safety Event
Published: 13 February 2019
Download: 
IMCA SF 02/19
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.
IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained. The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual’s or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.