Pilot Ladder
Hardwood (Beech Wood) Pilot Ladder, designed for safe and efficient crew transfer. Key features include durable hardwood steps, rubber bottom steps for superior grip, robust 4-strand manila rope, and aluminium rope clamps.
Certified with the Istituto Giordano Wheelmark, it complies with IMO Res. A.1045(27), ISO 799-1:2019, and SOLAS 74 Convention as amended, Reg. V/23 and X/3, in accordance with Directive 2014/90/EU – Reg. (EU) 2023/1667, MED/4.49 – Pilot Ladder.
Made for pilot and crew boarding, this ladder supports safe and secure transferring of crew, fully meeting the latest IMO MSC 88 amendment standards. Every ladder comes with a maker of certificate of conformity.
*Available in various lengths with full pricing details in the drop-down menu. If you require a Type B version (Supplied with an extended upper section and additional tie-down rope), please contact us at info@icbrindle.com to discuss your requirements.
*Magnetic Ladder Locker Attachment: provides an extra layer of security by firmly securing the ladder in place with powerful magnets. With over 500 KG of lift and pull ratings, this attachment ensures stability and prevents accidental movement during crew transfers, offering peace of mind during regular pilot ladder operations.
*Note - All Pilot and Embarkation Ladders are made to order and cannot be returned and refunded unless the goods are deemed faulty.
Marine Pilot Ladder - Pilot Ship Vessel Ladder with Beech Wood Spreaders for Pilot Boat Boarding – Sturdy Hardwood Steps Pilot Access Ladder
What Do I Use a Pilot Ladder For?
The pilot ladder is used for the pilot to transfer from their pilot boats and the ships they guide, as well as crews getting in and out vessels in normal situations. The pilot ladder has a spreader, differential from the embarkation ladder in it's design. The steps of each ladder are made of hard wood, except for the last 4 steps, which are made of rubber. The pilot ladder is a safe and stable means of transferring personnel into and out of a vessel safely.
Why Do I Need a Pilot Ladder?
In December 2010 IMO MSC 88 adopted MSC.308(88), which contains amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 and IMO resolution A.1045(27) this amendment provides additional recommendation for pilot ladder arrangements and pilot transfer arrangements applicable to all new built vessels and some existing vessels - Read latest article on Pilot Ladder operations.
Key Features & Equipment Benefits
- Enables Crews To Get In And Out Of Vessel: Ensures safe and efficient transfer of personnel.
- Hard Wood Steps For Durability: Provides durability and longevity.
- Last 4 Steps Made From Rubber For Foot Purchase: Offers superior foot purchase and stability.
- Hardwood (Beech Wood) Spreader: Adds strength and stability to the ladder.
- 4 Strand Manila Rope: Ensures exceptional durability and load-bearing capacity.
- Step Thimbles: Hardwood (Beech Wood): Reinforces and extends the lifespan of the steps.
- Aluminium Rope Clamp: Secures attachment and enhances safety.
- Istituto Giordano Wheelmark: Certifies adherence to rigorous safety standards.
- Complies with IMO Res. A.1045(27), ISO 799-1:2019, SOLAS 74 Convention as Amended Reg. V/23, Reg. X/3, 2014/90/EU - Reg. (EU) 2023/1667, MED/4.49 - Pilot Ladder (Manila or Synthetic Pilot Ladder)
- Customisable Lengths: Tailor the ladder to your vessel's specific requirements, ensuring optimal fit and functionality for your operations.
- Optional Magnetic Ladder Locker Attachment: Designed as an add-on feature for the pilot ladder, it provides an extra layer of security by firmly securing the ladder in place with powerful magnets. With over 500 KG of lift and pull ratings, this attachment ensures stability and prevents accidental movement during crew transfers.
Technical Information:
- Material: Hardwood (Beech Wood) Steps, Rubber Last 4 Steps, Hardwood (Beech Wood) Spreader
- Rope Type: 4 Strand Manila Rope
- Additional Features: Step Thimbles: Hardwood (Beech Wood), Aluminium Rope Clamp
- Certification: Istituto Giordano Wheelmark, Complies with IMO Res. A.1045(27), ISO 799-1:2019, SOLAS 74 Convention as Amended Reg. V/23, Reg. X/3, 2014/90/EU - Reg. (EU) 2023/1667, MED/4.49 - Pilot Ladder (Manila or Synthetic)
- Length Configuration: Available in lengths ranging from 2 to 20 metres
- IMPA: 232061
*Note - All Pilot and Embarkation Ladders are made to order and cannot be returned and refunded unless the goods are deemed faulty.
SPECIFICATION
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Enables crews to get in and out of vessel
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Hard wood steps for durability
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Last 4 steps made from rubber for foot purchase
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Hardwood (beech wood) spreader
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4 Strand Manila rope
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Step Thimbles: Hardwood (beech wood)
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Aluminium rope clamp
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Istituto Giordano Wheelmark
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Complies with IMO Res. A1045(27), MSC / Circ. 1428,
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ISO 799 (2004), SOLAS 74 Conv. as, amended Reg. V23, X/3
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IMPA Code: 232061
Contact Us
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What are pilot ladders used for?
Pilot ladders are designed to provide a safe means of access for marine pilots boarding and leaving vessels, typically transferring between a pilot boat and a ship. They can also be used for other controlled crew transfer and vessel access operations where a compliant pilot ladder arrangement is required.
According to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), pilot ladders provide access for pilots boarding and leaving ships (MCA, Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers, Section 22.8).
I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd supplies Wheelmark-certified pilot ladders manufactured for maritime use, with hardwood steps, non-slip compounds, spreaders and either manila or synthetic rope options. Our pilot ladders are available in various lengths to suit different vessel requirements.
Where are pilot ladders used?
Pilot ladders are used at designated pilot boarding positions to enable marine pilots to embark and disembark between a pilot boat and a vessel at sea. They must be rigged and secured to provide safe access to the ship, in accordance with pilot transfer requirements under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 23. The MCA also provides guidance on the safe rigging and use of pilot ladders, including requirements for ladder positioning, securing and construction (MCA, MGN 533, section 8.4).
What is the difference between a pilot ladder and an embarkation ladder?
Pilot ladders are specifically designed for pilot transfer between a vessel and a pilot boat. They incorporate spreader steps to help prevent the ladder from twisting, in accordance with pilot transfer requirements under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 23 (MCA, MGN 533, Section 8.4).
Embarkation ladders are designed for vessel access and evacuation applications, depending on their construction and intended use. The MCA identifies separate guidance for accommodation ladders and gangways used for embarkation and disembarkation under SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-9 (MCA, MGN 533, Section 8.5).
I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd supplies both pilot and embarkation ladders, so it is important to select the type appropriate for the intended application and vessel arrangement.
Why do pilot ladders have spreader steps?
Spreader steps help prevent the pilot ladder from twisting and keep the ladder spread open when suspended alongside the vessel. This provides a more stable climbing arrangement and helps maintain the correct orientation of the ladder during pilot transfer.
Under IMO pilot transfer recommendations, spreaders are required at specified intervals, with the lowest spreader positioned at the fifth step from the bottom.
What are pilot ladders made from?
Our standard pilot ladders use hardwood beech steps and spreaders, with the bottom four steps made from rubber to provide additional foot purchase. The ladder uses 4-strand manila side rope, with hardwood step thimbles and aluminium rope clamps.
A synthetic non-manila version is also available, using water-resistant synthetic rope designed for marine environments.
Why are the bottom four pilot ladder steps made from rubber?
The bottom four steps are made from rubber to provide additional grip and foot purchase during the pilot boarding operation. These steps are particularly important because they are close to the pilot boat and may be exposed to spray, water and movement during transfer.
The rubber steps form part of the specified pilot ladder construction and are designed to provide a secure foothold during boarding and disembarkation.
What lengths are pilot ladders available in?
The pilot ladders I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd supplies are available in lengths from approximately 2 metres to 20 metres, with the required length selected according to the vessel's pilot transfer arrangement. Pilot ladders must be long enough to provide the required access while being correctly positioned and secured in accordance with the vessel's approved pilot transfer arrangement.
Do you supply synthetic rope pilot ladders?
Yes. I.C. Brindle supplies both traditional manila rope pilot ladders and synthetic non-manila rope pilot ladders.
The synthetic option provides an alternative to manila rope and is designed to resist moisture, rot, mildew, oils, chemicals and UV exposure. The appropriate rope type should be selected according to the vessel's requirements and applicable regulations.
How should a pilot ladder be inspected?
Pilot ladders should be inspected before and after use by a responsible officer to check their condition. This should include checking the side ropes, steps, spreaders, step securing arrangements and other components for damage, wear or deterioration.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) recommends checking that the ladder is in date, that the side ropes are undamaged and in good condition, and that the steps are clean, undamaged, evenly spaced and horizontal (MAIB, GOV.UK)
How often should a pilot ladder receive a detailed inspection?
In addition to pre- and post-use inspections, pilot transfer arrangements should be subject to a detailed inspection at regular intervals. UKMPA guidance 'Pilot Transfer Arrangements', paragraph 26(1)–(2) states that pilot ladders should receive a detailed inspection every three months by a responsible officer on board (UKMPA.org).
Vessel operators should follow the manufacturer's instructions, their own maintenance procedures and the requirements applicable to their vessel and flag state.
How should pilot ladders be stored and maintained?
Pilot ladders should be stored to protect them from conditions that can cause deterioration, including prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight, alongside any exposure to chemicals, grease and other contaminants.
The ladder should be kept clean and dry where appropriate, and inspected regularly for deterioration of the ropes, steps, spreaders and securing components. Manufacturer maintenance and stowage instructions should always be followed.
Can damaged steps or spreaders be replaced?
Pilot ladder repairs are subject to specific requirements and should not be treated in the same way as ordinary rope-ladder maintenance. Under the updated pilot transfer performance standards, repair or replacement of pilot ladder steps or spreader steps is prohibited (UKMPA, Pilot Transfer Arrangements, Part B).
If a pilot ladder is damaged or no longer meets the applicable requirements, it should be withdrawn from service and replaced in accordance with the relevant standards and manufacturer's instructions. The MCA clarifies that repair requirements depend on the type of ladder and the standards being applied (MCA, MGN 610, Amendment 1, FAQ 2–3).
How do I choose the correct pilot ladder length?
The correct length depends on the vessel's pilot transfer arrangement, the required boarding height and the position of the pilot ladder relative to the water and pilot boat.
Pilot ladders should be rigged so that the pilot can board safely and conveniently, with the ladder properly secured to suitable strong points. If you are unsure which length or configuration is required, contact I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd with your vessel requirements and we can help identify the appropriate ladder.
Do pilot ladders need man ropes?
Man ropes may be required as part of the pilot transfer arrangement. IMO pilot transfer guidance specifies requirements for man ropes, including their construction and positioning, and current UK guidance states that compliant man ropes should be available where required by the pilot.
I.C. Brindle supplies manila man ropes separately for pilot and embarkation ladder applications.
How should a pilot ladder be secured to a vessel?
A pilot ladder must be securely attached to suitable strong points on the vessel and correctly rigged for the pilot transfer arrangement. The securing method must not place inappropriate loads on the ladder steps or other components.
Correct rigging is essential. UK maritime guidance specifically highlights securing the ladder to strong points on the ship's deck and ensuring that the arrangement is properly supervised during pilot transfer operations.
Are pilot ladders made to order?
Yes. The Pilot ladders are available in a range of lengths and can be supplied to suit specific vessel requirements. Certain configurations, including extended upper sections and additional tie-down arrangements, may also be available.
As these ladders are made to order, customers should confirm the required specification and length before ordering.
Do pilot ladders have an IMPA code?
Yes. The standard pilot ladder with manila ropes is listed with IMPA code 232061. IMPA codes can be useful for marine procurement and identifying the required equipment when ordering through ship suppliers and purchasing departments.
Do you supply pilot ladder accessories?
Yes. I.C. Brindle supplies a range of equipment for pilot and embarkation ladder arrangements, including magnetic ladder lockers, manila man ropes, oversized shackles, protective covers, IMO safety signage and lifebuoys.
The Magnetic Pilot Ladder Locker is designed to provide an additional securing point for pilot and embarkation ladders and is supplied with securing belts and installation and signage.
What is a Magnetic Pilot Ladder Locker used for?
A Magnetic Pilot Ladder Locker provides a removable securing point for a pilot or embarkation ladder. The system uses high-strength magnets and securing belts to help hold the ladder in position against the vessel.
The system has a stated lift rating of 500 kg and pull rating of 520 kg and is DNV approved for its specified application. The pilot ladder locker should be installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the vessel's approved pilot transfer arrangement.
What standards do your pilot ladders comply with?
The pilot ladders supplied by I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd are designed for marine pilot transfer. The manufacturer lists Wheelmark certification and standards and requirements including IMO Resolution A.1045(27), MSC/Circ. 1428, ISO 799 (2004) and SOLAS 1974, as amended, Regulations V/23 and X/3. Sample certification documents are available to download for reference, and the relevant certification documentation is supplied with the goods when ordered.
Can I get documentation with my pilot ladder?
Yes. the pilot ladders I.C. Brindle & Co. Ltd supplies come with supporting technical documentation, including a manufacturer's certificate of conformity, and compliant certificates are sent with the goods.
