Analysis
- 51% of securing methods uses the D-Shackle
- The rolling hitch knot is used in 31% of the observations.
- No new securing methods have been identified
- The distribution of securing methods by geographical area has not been determined due to the low number of response from outside Europe.
- All identified methods are in use on all types of ships.
Possible explanation
- D-Shackle: easy to use, ships are designed to be used in this way.
- The use of a rolling hitch knot is the most used alternative to the D-shackle: it is being promoted by pilots around the world.
Limitations
- The survey was intended to give a picture of the securing methods in use in various regions of the world. As a result of the limited response outside Europe that goal has not been achieved.
- The minimum sample size has however been reached, so it is a representative sample.
Final Conclusions
Securing a pilot ladder at intermediate length is potentially a risky matter. The two most frequently used methods are either demonstrably weaker than the total strength of the pilot ladder or are considered harmful for the integrity of the pilot ladder itself. There is no legislation or standard of a securing method which is both of equal strength of the ladder, and harmless for the ladder’s structural integrity.