Getting on and off a ship by pilot ladder is still one of the riskiest parts of a pilot's job, and the IMO has responded with the biggest update to the pilot transfer rules in decades. The changes to SOLAS Regulation V/23, along with new performance standards (IMO Resolution MSC.576(110)), start taking effect on January 1, 2028.
Here's a plain-English rundown of what's changing and what you'll want to do about it. If you have questions about your specific vessel, give us a call at 207-363-0220. We're happy to help.
The short version: pilot ladders and manropes become wear items with a hard replacement deadline, every ship needs a spare ladder and spare manropes on board, and the way ladders are secured and documented is getting a lot stricter.
Key Dates
Jan 1, 2028
New rules take effect. Any pilot transfer arrangement installed on or after this date must fully comply.
Jan 1, 2028
Inspection, maintenance, replacement and stowage rules apply to all ships, including existing ones.
First survey after Jan 1, 2029
Existing SOLAS ships must bring their arrangements fully up to the new standards.
First survey after Jan 1, 2030
Existing non-SOLAS ships that use pilot transfer arrangements must comply.
What's Changing
1. Pilot ladders and manropes now have an expiration date
Ladders and manropes are treated as consumables. They have to come out of service 30 months after they're put into use or 36 months after the date of manufacture, whichever comes first, no matter how good they look. That means you'll be replacing ladders on a regular cycle, so it pays to know the manufacture date of every ladder on board.
2. A spare ladder and spare manropes are required
Every ship needs at least one spare pilot ladder and one spare set of manropes on board, ready to go. They'll also be listed on the ship's records of equipment.
3. Stronger, documented strong points
Strong points on deck used for pilot ladders and manropes need a breaking strength of at least 48 kN, and you need records showing that, along with records for the shackles and securing ropes. If a strong point isn't documented, a surveyor may ask for it to be load tested.
4. Dedicated securing at intermediate lengths
Ships need a proper, dedicated way to secure the ladder when it's rigged at an intermediate length. Tying off to the steps or improvising isn't going to cut it. Improper securing is one of the most common deficiencies found today.
5. Tighter type approval, no self-certification
Manufacturers can no longer self-certify pilot ladders. Ladders need proper type approval, so check the certificate when you buy.
6. Mechanical pilot hoists are out, and lighting is in
Mechanical pilot hoists are prohibited. Pilot transfer areas and deck embarkation points need adequate lighting.
7. Inspection, maintenance and crew familiarization
The new standards spell out how pilot transfer equipment is inspected, stowed, maintained and replaced, and they require crew to be familiar with rigging it properly.
Your Get-Ready Checklist
☐ Find the manufacture date and in-service date for every pilot ladder and manrope on board.
☐ Work out when each one hits its 30 or 36-month limit, and plan replacements ahead of time.
☐ Order a spare pilot ladder and a spare set of manropes if you don't already carry them.
☐ Check that your ladders have proper type approval certificates, not just a manufacturer's own certificate.
☐ Pull together records for your strong points, shackles and securing ropes, or plan to have strong points tested.
☐ Make sure you have a dedicated means of securing the ladder at intermediate lengths.
☐ Check the lighting at your pilot transfer area and embarkation points.
☐ Talk with your flag state or class society about any modifications your vessel may need, and don't wait until your survey.
Need pilot ladders, spares or manropes?
We carry SOLAS/USCG pilot and embarkation ladders and can help you plan your replacement schedule. Tell us your freeboard and how many ships you're outfitting, and we'll quote you.
Shop Pilot Ladders Request a Quote 207-363-0220
Common Questions
Does this apply to my vessel?
If your vessel is required to have pilot transfer arrangements under SOLAS, yes. Existing non-SOLAS vessels with pilot transfer arrangements come under the rules from their first survey after January 1, 2030. If you're not sure, check with your flag state or class society, or give us a call.
My ladder looks fine. Do I really have to replace it?
Yes. Under the new standards, condition doesn't extend the deadline. Once a ladder hits 30 months in service or 36 months from manufacture, whichever comes first, it has to come out of service.
Can I keep using my current ladders until 2028?
Until the rules take effect, the current requirements still apply. But since every ladder will need to fit the new replacement cycle starting in 2028, it's smart to note manufacture dates now and plan purchases so you're not replacing everything at once.
How do I know a ladder is compliant?
Look for proper type approval, and check the certificate and the manufacture date when the ladder arrives. If you need help sorting out which ladder fits your vessel, we're glad to help.
This guide is a plain-English summary of the amendments to SOLAS Regulation V/23 and IMO Resolution MSC.576(110). It isn't a substitute for the regulations themselves or for guidance from your flag state or class society. Always confirm requirements for your specific vessel.