AMSA Marine Notice 2023/06
The club would like to draw Members attention to recently released AMSA marine notice 2023/06 which is intended to raise awareness of the risks involved with getting on and off vessels. The provision of safe access is considered a key operation under the ISM Code and should be addressed in the vessel’s safety management system.
AMSA marine notice 2023/06 highlights the importance of evaluating the suitability of the boarding arrangements on the basis of the experience and physical abilities of the people intending to board the vessel.
The Master of a vessel is ultimately responsible for ensuring a safe means of access to the vessel. It is important that a risk assessment be undertaken to evaluate all the possible risks associated with the provision of a safe means of access are evaluated including for example the rigging, positioning, monitoring and use of the equipment. Factors to consider include obstructions, adequate illumination, gaps between the vessel and wharf’s edge, the weather and tidal variations.
The failure to provide safe access could result in serious injuries and even fatalities.
There are many sources of information and guidance on the dangers and risks associated with safe access to vessels.
Other references:
- MSC.1/Circ.1331 – Guidelines for Construction, Installation, Maintenance, and Inspection/Survey of means of Embarkation and Disembarkation
- ILO Code of Practice: Accident prevention on board ship at sea and in port (Section 3.4 - Shore-side access to ships; Section 8 - Safe access to ship)
- AMSA Maritime Safety Awareness Bulletin issue 10—Safe vessel access
- AMSA Marine Notice 04/2023 – Pilot Ladder Transfer Arrangements
- AMSA Marine Notice 2021/06 – Fatal accidents from falling off pilot ladders on ships
- ATSB Report - Fall from the pilot ladder on the bulk carrier Atlantic Princess, Whyalla, South Australia on 3 July 2013. Investigation Number 300-MO-2013-007
- RA13 - Updated - Gangway and Accommodation Ladder Inspection and Maintenance
