Defective embarkation ladder quarantined – a reminder

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 28 October 2021
  • Generated on 18 February 2026
  • IMCA SF 29/21
  • 1 minute read

During routine inspection of the port side embarkation ladder on a vessel operating in a tropical environment, it was observed that the embarkation ladder rope had become very weak and snapped when pulled apart by hands.

What happened?

Weakness of the rope could likely have led to a man overboard situation had the ladder been used.

During routine inspection of the port side embarkation ladder on a vessel operating in a tropical environment, it was observed that the embarkation ladder rope has become very weak and snapped, when pulled apart by hands

What were the causes?

Our Member noted the following preliminary causes:

  • The protective canvas cover was inadequate, not providing adequate protection for the ladder.

  • The crew had a poor culture of routine inspection.

  • Exposure to seawater and sunlight (actinic degradation).

Actions

Pilot ladders and other ladders should be appropriately and carefully stored, checked regularly as part of a planned maintenance system, and defective ladders removed from service immediately.

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