Gangway Safety: Priority Checks for Secure Ship-to-Shore Access 31.10.2026 16:29
Britannia P&I’s has published practical guide on 12 October 2026; the original dates from September 2024. It is loss-prevention guidance, not a new regulation.
It is loss-prevention guidance, not a new regulation. Use it alongside SOLAS II-1/3-9 and revised IMO guidance MSC.1/Circ.1331/Rev.1. Confirm vessel-specific requirements with the flag Administration and recognised organisation. This bulletin covers ship-to-shore access arrangements.
Recommended checks before opening access
Structure and securing. Check for cracks, deformation, corrosion, damaged wires and loose connections. Confirm correct securing and support.
Operating limits. Verify the permitted angle, load and number of persons against the manufacturer’s instructions and markings.
Fall protection. Check guardrails, handholds and the applicable safety-net arrangement. Ensure nets are serviceable and correctly rigged.
Safe passage. Keep the walkway clear, slip-resistant and adequately lit. Brief the rigging team; use appropriate lifejackets and safety harnesses.
Master and watchkeeping officers — throughout the port stay
Assign a gangway watch and establish communications. Monitor tides, draught changes, cargo operations and vessel movement, including wash from passing traffic. Adjust the arrangement in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, controlling access during adjustments. Recheck securing, support and fall protection afterwards.
Company — maintenance and suspended arrangements
Review the SMS procedure, inspection and test records, maintenance status and outstanding defects. For a gangway used in a suspended condition, assess failure of the primary connection. Japan P&I recommends suitable secondary support independent of the hoisting wires. Have the proposed arrangement reviewed by the manufacturer and, where applicable, the recognised organisation; do not improvise attachments.
STOP ACCESS — report to the master
Close and physically barrier the access if securing or support is unreliable, structural damage is found, operating limits are exceeded, or movement or inadequate fall protection makes passage unsafe. Reopen only after rectification and a satisfactory recheck by the responsible officer. Record defects, corrective action and authorisation to resume use.
Keep your vessel documentation aligned with current requirements. Get in touch with IBICON to develop and update SMS procedures, shipboard plans, manuals and instructions tailored to your fleet. Contact us for a quotation.
