An offshore worker transferring from a platform ladder to the deck of a pilot boat. Any misjudgement of the vessel’s heave or yaw motion can create a serious crushing hazard, with the potential for the worker to become trapped between the ladder and the boat.
A harbour pilot transferring from a moving vessel to a pilot boat using a rope ladder. This is applicable to any boarding group such as border force or workers. During the operation, both vessels are underway and maintaining approximately the same speed, requiring the pilot to descend the rope ladder and time the transfer onto the deck of the pilot boat. Although the speed of the two vessels is closely matched, the pilot boat remains subject to the effects of wave action, causing continuous heave, roll and yaw motions. These movements can rapidly change the distance and relative position between the ladder and the boat deck, requiring precise timing and constant awareness by both the pilot and boat crew.
The transfer presents numerous hazards. A mistimed step, sudden vessel movement or loss of grip can result in the pilot falling from the ladder, leading to serious injuries associated with a fall from height or impact with the deck, side of the vessel or pilot boat. A more severe consequence is a fall into the water between the two vessels. In such circumstances, the pilot may be crushed between the hulls, struck by the pilot boat, or drawn beneath the vessel and into the propeller wash, exposing them to the risk of contact with the propellers. For these reasons, pilot transfers are recognized throughout the maritime industry as one of the most hazardous routine operations, requiring specialized equipment, strict procedures and continual training to minimize the risk of serious injury or loss of life.