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.

Missing chock and steps unsafe for boarding

Break following ineffective maintenance of gangway wire

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

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