Preparing a Pilot Ladder by vessels crew

Most pilot embarkations and disembarkations around the world, are still carried out using a traditional pilot ladder, consisting of wooden steps supported and secured by side ropes.

Tuesday, October 1st is the start date of the latest International Maritime Pilot Association's annual Safety Campaign.

Previous campaigns by the association have consistently shown results of pilot ladder deficiencies around the 20% mark.

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.

Pilot boat build by Safehaven Marine

This video briefly describes the special operation of transfer of marine pilots at sea

Great video from Argentina. But a backpack is not recommended in combination with a life vest.

Despite clear regulations and regular maintenance requirements, safety often falls by the wayside, as the current example of a bulk carrier vividly demonstrates.

Video showing marine pilot navigating a cargo ship from Plan du Port

During a sea survival training, the 275 Newton standard issue of the Dutch pilots was put to the test in combination with a small backpack.