8SAFE ACCESS TO SHIP

8 SAFE ACCESS TO SHIP

Note: This chapter provides only general guidance on safe access to the ship.

For information about specific requirements, the reader should also

consult Marine Orders, Part 23 (Equipment-Miscellaneous and Safety Measures). Further information on safe access to ships may also be found in the ILO code of practice on Safety and Health in Dock Work (revised, 1984) and the ILO Guide to Health and Safety in Dock Work (revised, 1988).

8.1 MEANS OF ACCESS TO SHIP

8.1.1 There should be a safe means of access between any ship and any quay, pontoon or similar structure or another ship alongside which the ship is secured.

8.1.2 Crew members should be provided with adequate information on how to make their way safely to and from the ship through the marine terminal or shore side cargo handling area.

8.1.3 In some modem ports access equipment such as mobile gangways and information on safe means of access are provided by the port authorities. However, the master should ensure, as far as possible, that the equipment meets the required safety standards.

8.1.4 Crew members shall not use a means of access which is unsafe. They should also use means of access with care, e.g. they should not carry so much at once but should instead make several trips or use a stores crane when carrying personal gear, stores or ship's equipment.

8.1.5 Access arrangements should be supervised at all times, either by crew members or by shore personnel, particularly in ports which have large tidal ranges.

Note: Besides contributing to the protection of seafarers against accidents, such surveillance also enhances security against unauthorised persons, including criminals, from boarding the ship.