Pilots leaving the vessel in port in an unsafe manner
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.
What were the causes?
- Individuals jumping from gangway platform to the jetty;
- Gangway not yet touching the jetty, nor in a stable position.
Our members’ 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
Safety Event
Published: 10 November 2020
Download: 
IMCA SF 31/20
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.
IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall 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.