Transport Malta reported an incident involving a tanker during pilot disembarkation. The issue concerned the pilot and accommodation ladder arrangements while leaving port.
What Happened
A tanker in ballast, with a freeboard of 15.4 m, was preparing to depart port. Two pilots boarded from the vessel’s sea side and inspected the pilot and accommodation ladder. Following their recommendation, the pilot ladder was adjusted approximately three steps higher. The vessel’s departure and outbound voyage proceeded without incident.
At the pilot disembarkation area, the vessel experienced heavy rolling, causing the magnets securing the accommodation ladder platform to release from the hull. One pilot was able to disembark safely after the ladder was re-secured, but the second pilot could not due to repeated dislodgement of the magnets. Disembarkation of the second pilot was postponed, and the vessel proceeded to an area with more favorable conditions for safe disembarkation.
Why It Happened
The incident occurred due to the loss of magnetic strength in the accommodation ladder magnets, which caused them to detach from the hull during heavy rolling. Magnets can lose effectiveness over time for several reasons, including exposure to high temperatures, physical damage from impacts or vibrations, electromagnetic interference from strong electrical currents, and corrosion. In this case, the combination of aging magnets and vessel movement created conditions where the magnets could not maintain a secure hold, leading to the failure of the ladder attachment.
Actions Taken
The accommodation ladder magnets were re-attached to the hull to allow safe disembarkation of one pilot. The Master subsequently ordered new magnets for the vessel to prevent recurrence.
Lessons Learned
- Ladder magnets degrade over time and may lose holding strength.
- Regular inspection and maintenance are essential, including protection from impacts, corrosion, and extreme temperatures.
- Replacement of old or weakened magnets is recommended if their operational strength is uncertain.
- Operational planning should account for vessel movement and weather conditions to ensure safe pilot disembarkation.
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Source: The Nautical Institute.
