Pilot Ladder - Transfer Device
In December 2010, the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 88) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted Resolution MSC.308(88).This resolution introduced amendments to the SOLAS Convention (Chapter V, Regulation 23), aimed at improving the safety of pilot transfer arrangements.
These provisions entered into force on July 1, 2012, and apply to all ships, both new and existing.
On November 30, 2011, the IMO also adopted Resolution A.1045(27), which provides detailed recommendations on pilot transfer arrangements.
These provisions entered into force on July 1, 2012, and apply to all ships, both new and existing.
On November 30, 2011, the IMO also adopted Resolution A.1045(27), which provides detailed recommendations on pilot transfer arrangements.
SOLAS Regulation Implementation Schedule
Major Changes Adopted in 2025
In response to the continuing occurrence of accidents during pilotage operations, the IMO, in collaboration with the International Maritime Pilots' Association (IMPA), has thoroughly revised the regulatory framework.
At the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (June 2025), several key texts were adopted:
- Resolution MSC.572(110): amendments to SOLAS Regulation V/23
- Resolution MSC.576(110): new mandatory performance standards for transfer devices - Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428/Rev.1: new official illustrations of transfer devices.
Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428/Rev.1, published on September 5, 2025, replaces the previous version and provides updated diagrams of compliant systems for pilots, shipowners, and crews. It must be used in conjunction with the SOLAS amendments and the new performance standards adopted in 2025.
At the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (June 2025), several key texts were adopted:
- Resolution MSC.572(110): amendments to SOLAS Regulation V/23
- Resolution MSC.576(110): new mandatory performance standards for transfer devices - Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428/Rev.1: new official illustrations of transfer devices.
Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428/Rev.1, published on September 5, 2025, replaces the previous version and provides updated diagrams of compliant systems for pilots, shipowners, and crews. It must be used in conjunction with the SOLAS amendments and the new performance standards adopted in 2025.
Implementation
The new requirements will take effect as of **January 1, 2028**, with phased implementation:
- New ships: immediate compliance starting in 2028
- Existing ships (SOLAS): upon the first survey after 2029
- Other ships: no later than 2030
At that time, the previous recommendations, notably Resolution A.1045(27) and Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428, will be phased out.
- New ships: immediate compliance starting in 2028
- Existing ships (SOLAS): upon the first survey after 2029
- Other ships: no later than 2030
At that time, the previous recommendations, notably Resolution A.1045(27) and Circular MSC.1/Circ.1428, will be phased out.
Industrial Standardization
In addition, ISO 799 (and its revised versions) provides a framework for the manufacture and maintenance of pilot ladders, ensuring consistency in equipment worldwide.
