Defective embarkation ladder quarantined – a reminder
- Safety Flash
- Published on 28 October 2021
- Generated on 4 July 2025
- 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.
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.
Related Safety Flashes
-
IMCA SF 07/21
4 March 2021
-
IMCA SF 24/20
14 August 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 03/20
30 January 2020
-
-
IMCA SF 24/18
30 October 2018
-
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is 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.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.