202508 Damage to accommodation ladder

Providing learning through confidential reports – an international co-operative scheme for improving safety

A tanker had arrived at berth to load a fuel parcel. Once mooring was completed, the starboard accommodation ladder was prepared for the embarkation of local authorities, including the agent and the terminal personnel. Upon embarkation of the first group of terminal workers, they requested that the vessel lower the ladder somewhat to reduce the gap from the dock. The ladder was subsequently lowered, but now was below the level of the jetty.

As the vessel was moving somewhat, both vertically (15 cm) and horizontally (30 cm), the ladder hit the dock and suffered damage before it could be raised above the level of the jetty.

Lessons learned

• Consider your actions before executing them – bad consequences are a possibility so be situationally aware.
• Sometimes we rush to please others. Stay focused on safety.