【Marine Notice】Requirements for the Maintenance and Safe Use of Pilot Ladders / PORT OF PORT HEDLAND LOCAL MARINE NOTICE 14/25

We would like to inform you that the Local Marine Notice “PH 14/25” has recently been issued by Pilbara Ports for Port Hedland.

Below is a summary of key points, precautions, and checkpoints regarding the management of pilot ladders. We hope this will be helpful for your reference.

Applicable to: All vessels entering Port Hedland
Effective Date: October 2, 2025
Note: This notice supersedes PH 14/23 issued on November 14, 2023.

The original document can be accessed via the following link: PH 14/25

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1. Certification and Marking of Pilot Ladders

• Must comply with SOLAS V/23 or ISO 799-1:2019.
• The original certificate from the manufacturer must be kept onboard.
• The ladder must have an identification plate indicating the date of manufacture and compliance standard.

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2. Expiry Period

• Ladder body: Within 30 months from the date of manufacture (extension possible upon passing strength test per ISO 799-1).
• Man ropes: Within 12 months from the date of manufacture (note: not from the date of first use).

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3. Key Points on Securing Pilot Ladders (in accordance with IMO Resolution A.1045(27))

Basic Requirements

• Vessels must comply with IMO Resolution A.1045(27) (including amendments).
• Applicable items: Winch reels, securing methods, access points, and installation methods.

Securing in Light Draft Conditions

• When the vessel is in light draft, the thimble end of the ladder must be secured with a shackle.
• If securing at the thimble end is not feasible due to changes in freeboard, intermediate securing is required.

Safe Intermediate Securing Method

• Load must be transmitted directly from the side ropes of the ladder to a strong securing point on deck.
• Steps, spreaders, chocks, etc., must not be used to support the load.

Recommended Securing Technique

• Use a rolling hitch knot (rope stopper) to connect the side ropes to a strong securing point.
• This ensures the load is safely transferred to the deck and prevents damage to the ladder.

Rope Specifications and Replacement Cycle

• Use at least two Manila ropes (Grade One).
• Rope diameter must be between 28 mm and 32 mm.
• Ropes must be properly secured to the vessel upon pilot request.
• Ropes must be secured to ring plates installed on deck, and replaced every 12 months.

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4. General Safety Requirements for Pilot Ladders and Related Equipment (Summary)

Compliance and Maintenance

• All pilot ladders and related equipment must comply with SOLAS and be maintained in good condition at all times.

Installation by Trained Crew

• Only trained crew members may install the ladder, and a responsible officer must verify it before use.

Inspection, Certification, and Maintenance Records

• Records of inspections, certificates, and maintenance history must be readily available upon request.

Proper Storage

• Ladders, man ropes, and securing ropes must be stored away from chemicals, direct sunlight, and other deteriorating environments.

Integration into Planned Maintenance System (PMS)

• Maintenance of pilot transfer equipment (e.g., stanchions, shackles, fittings) must be included in the Planned Maintenance System (PMS).