Alpha Marine Consulting highlights the increasing adoption of secondary support requirements for suspended accommodation ladders at Australian ports, aimed at preventing injury and fatality in the event of primary hoisting wire failure. With Port of Newcastle already applying this requirement and Port of Dampier introducing mandatory compliance from 1 January 2027 under Local Marine Notice D13-2026, Messrs. Owners and Managers are encouraged to review their vessel arrangements and ensure readiness for the new safety expectations.
AMC provides specialized engineering and compliance support, including technical assessments, vessel-specific design solutions, structural evaluations, Class and Flag coordination, and implementation assistance to ensure accommodation ladder arrangements meet the required standards. We can also support with SMS integration, including the development of relevant procedures, onboard practices, responsibilities, documentation, and record-keeping requirements to ensure effective implementation and port authority verification.
Early assessment and planning are strongly recommended, allowing any required modifications to be incorporated during scheduled dry-docking or repair periods, ensuring safe and uninterrupted vessel operations.
For further information or technical assistance, please contact us.