Pilots leaving the vessel in port in an unsafe manner
- Safety Flash
- Published on 10 November 2020
- Generated on 19 February 2026
- IMCA SF 31/20
- 2 minute read
What happened?
One of our members has released this bulletin relating to a recurring practice of pilots egressing from a ship’s gangway before it has rested safely on the jetty.
Such practice resulted in two separate incidents in less than two days: one a medical treatment case (MTC) and the other, a near-miss.
pilot jumping from vessel
gangway not rigged at the correct height for safe transfer of personnel
What were the causes?
- Individuals jumping from gangway platform to the jetty.
- Gangway not yet touching the jetty, nor in a stable position.
Our Member's recommendations for action
- Remind pilots and all personnel that disembarkation from the vessel is only to take place with the gangway fully flat on the jetty and vessel crew in attendance. When time pressure is an issue, communicate the cause for delays – don’t take shortcuts!
- When possible and available, use available persons on the jetty to assist safe egress from the gangway.
- Vessel mooring must be complete before the pilot disembarks ashore.
- Lifejackets, like all other PPE, should always be worn for safe access and egress.
Members may wish to refer to:
- IMCA HSS025 Guidance on the transfer of personnel to and from offshore vessels and structures
Related Safety Flashes
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IMCA SF 08/18
11 April 2018
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IMCA SF 27/18
14 December 2018
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IMCA SF 24/20
14 August 2020
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