On July 3rd, 2023 The Port of New South Wales Harbour Authority issued Harbour Master Instruction HMI 23-03E, named ” Safe Marine Pilot Transfer (MPT) Arrangement – Pilot Ladder “.
Scope
Vessel Masters and Operators – All vessels arriving and departing the port of Newcastle
Background
The substandard condition of the pilot ladders and their associated equipment, inadequate maintenance regimes, incorrect rigging, and a lack of awareness has been established as the major contributors to several significant incidents during pilot transfers.
To ensure the potential risks and the safety concerns surrounding the marine pilot transfers are effectively addressed and to ensure a standardised approach to marine pilot transfer arrangements, the Port Authority of New South Wales has mandated the below minimum safety criteria which would come into force on
01 October 2023.
This Instruction sets regulations for ship’s masters and operators, which supersede IMO and ISO requirements. In short the maximum age of the ladder is mandated, just like the age of the manropes. It also sets new standards on crew guidance, PTA certification and marking of pilot ladders.
The full document can be found here:
