【Rule】 Requirement of Pilot ladder for all vessels arriving at Newcastle, Australia【Revised 2026/02/09】

【Revised 2026/02/09】

The latest edition of the HMI has been issued, so we will proceed with the update.

HMI 25-02 E Safe Marine Pilot Transfer (MPT) Arrangement.pdf

A summary of the key points is as follows:

1. Clarification and Standardization of Applicable Standards
   • Full compliance with ISO 799‑1:2019 (revised edition) is now mandatory.
   • ISO 799‑2:2021 and ISO 799‑3:2022 have been added as reference standards, covering maintenance, inspection, and associated equipment requirements.
   • ARCSOPT (2023) has been added as an additional reference standard.
2. Specification of Service Life (Validity Period)
   • Pilot ladder service life: 30 months from the date of manufacture.
     • Extension is permitted if regular step/rope connection strength tests are conducted within the 30‑month period (in accordance with ISO requirements).
   • Man‑rope service life: 12 months from the date of manufacture.
3. Requirement to Provide Detailed Instructions for Crew
   Vessels must prepare and provide crew with ship‑specific procedures covering pilot ladders, man‑ropes, and associated equipment, including:
   • Storage, inspection, and maintenance methods
   • Correct rigging procedures
   • Proper securing methods when using reels
   • Approved rope materials and diameters
4. Mandatory Marking: “For Marine Transfers Only”
   • All pilot ladders, man‑ropes, and accessories must be marked with “For Marine Transfers Only.”
5. Stricter Requirements for Certificate Retention
   • Original certificates for all ladders, man‑ropes, and securing devices must be retained onboard.
6. Clarification of Strength Testing Methods and Validity
   • Tests may only be conducted by manufacturers, flag administrations, or classification‑society‑approved facilities.
   • Test validity is limited to 30 months; ladders exceeding this period may not be used.
7. Clarification Regarding Helicopter Pilot Transfers
   • Full compliance with pilot ladder requirements is also mandatory when pilots are transferred by helicopter.

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The Port Authority of new south wales has issued a letter of instruction on the requirements for a pilot ladder for vessels arriving at Newcastle Harbour.

・　Applicable vessels:

　　→ All vessels calling at Newcastle Harbour

・　Effective date:

　　→ On and after 1st Nov. 2022

・　Requirements:

　　→ All vessels arriving at the Newcastle should be equipped with pilot ladders less than 30 months old or where they had been in service over 30months, they should have been subjected to a strength test as required under ISO 799-1:2019.

Harbour Master Instruction HMI 22-001E