Article

UK Ports and Pilots take firm stand against Non-compliant Trap Door Boarding arrangements


published on 24 March 2021 386 -

UKMPA has released a notice to their members today regarding the so-called "non compliant trapdoors". Vessels have been rejected entrance, talks have started with different shipping companies.

The UKMPA Chairman Captain Mike Morris gave the following statement:

“I am delighted that the firm stance taken by our members with the full backing of their ports and terminal operators has resulted in this positive outcome.


We at the UKMPA will continue to work with all UK stakeholders including the UK Harbour Masters Association, British Ports Association, UK Major ports group, Maritime and Coast Guard Agency and DFT to raise awareness and promote best practice with regard to all aspects of safe Pilot transfer.


In the last few years we have seen several fatalities worldwide and one involving this type of dangerous non-compliant trap-door arrangement. We look forward to the continued efforts of all stakeholders and a time when these types of arrangements are confined to history”.

What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Article Origins of the IMPA pilot mark

by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 24 October 2019

There are many things in both our everyday and professional lives which we take for granted and never question the origins of, an example of this might be the IMPA recommended ‘pilot mark or pilot line’, which is sometimes seen on the side of vessels indicating where a vessels freeboard exceeds 9 metres.

4

Article Pilot Embarkation platforms

by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 17 December 2019

During the transit time on the pilot launch between the shore and the vessel, marine pilots will spend at least a portion of that time carrying out (either consciously or subconsciously) a risk assessment of the forthcoming operation.

1

Article Securing pilot ladders at intermediate lengths

by Kevin Vallance deep sea pilot and author - published on 6 January 2020

Over the past few years a number of pilot transfer accidents have occurred resulting from total failure of the side ropes, one school of thought is that the methods of securing a pilot ladder is a factor in such occurrences.

0

Video Another non-compliant trap door arrangement

published on 4 October 2021

Some pilots have already lost their lives because of this non-compliant construction. We don't want to see such an arrangement again. Here is a latest video from the Middle East.

0

Video Behind the Scenes on the Tyne Pilot Boat

published on 14 April 2025

Join me for an action-packed day aboard the pilot boat on the River Tyne! From sunrise to sunset, we guide massive ships safely into port, working right in the heart of the action. Get up close as we put pilots on board, ride the waves, and experience the beauty of the Tyne like never before. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast or just love seeing life at sea, this behind-the-scenes look at the pilot boat crew is not to be missed!
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more...

0

Video SAMIPTA briefing to AMET - safety and innovation in Pilot Ladder.

published on 8 September 2021

AIMPA in association with IMU has organized a Research Paper Competition (SAMIPTA) for cadets of MTI from all disciplines on Pilot ladder risk mitigation and suggest innovative measures to Mitigate risks.

0

Video Pilot boat Lesath in rough sea brings pilot to Container ship

published on 28 September 2021

The pilot boat Lesath brings the harbor pilot to the Allegro. It was windy and the sea was rough, the conditions where not extremely, but the boarding is not whitout risk.
This video is created 2 days after storm Ciara in the Port of Rotterdam. This was also the first day that the containerterminals where open after the storm.
Shipspotting Rotterdam,
Enjoy

0

Article Sanmar Shipyards completes record number of vessels in a month

published on 1 March 2022

Sanmar Shipyards is celebrating completing a record number of vessels within one calendar month, with six tugs and two pilot boats gaining their class certificates during January 2022.

0

Article Intertanko Guide to Safe Navigation (2nd Edition-2021) released

published on 28 December 2021

Shipping has evolved significantly over the years. Research in maritime safety and operations over the past few decades has been intensive and has resulted in significant improvements.

0