2026-03: Pilot Transfer Arrangements
30 April 2026
Vessel owners and Masters are reminded of the requirement that pilot transfer arrangements be made in accordance with SOLAS regulations and IMO guidance (where applicable). Your attention is drawn to the IMO/ IMPA “Required Boarding Arrangements for Pilot” poster.
Our pilot launch Coxswains and Pilots will not transfer if the arrangements are found not in accordance with the above requirements or if circumstances are not considered safe.
Vessels which are not required to comply with SOLAS regulations / IMO guidance (as per MGN 610) shall only be permitted to transfer following a review and dynamic risk assessment of the vessel’s transfer arrangements, and is dependent on suitable conditions.
Attention is also drawn to the Embarkation & Disembarkation of Pilots – Code of Safe Practice which states “where local conditions permit, it is advisable to minimise the risk of a fall from height by utilising a combination arrangement, where feasible, provided that the lower platform remains horizontal and the slope angle of the accommodation ladder does not exceed 45 degrees at the reduced height”.
The attachment below (Climb Zones – Extract from Embarkation & Disembarkation of Pilots – Code of Safe Practice) clearly illustrates a dramatic increase in risk of serious injury with increase in height of fall. Accordingly, it is recommended that vessels work proactively to reduce the climb to a safer height of between 4m and 6m above the water level where possible.