The Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances for Passenger Ships of Classes III to VI (A)) Regulations 1992

Regulations 2(3) and 13

PART V EMBARKATION LADDERS

Construction

1.

1.1  The steps of the embarkation ladder shall be:

1.1.1 made of hardwood, free from knots or other irregularities, smoothly machined and free from sharp edges and splinters, or of suitable material of equivalent properties;

1.1.2 provided with an efficient non-slip surface either by longitudinal grooving or by the application of an approved non-slip coating;

1.1.3 not less than 480 mm long, 115 mm wide and 25 mm in depth, excluding any non-slip surface or coating; and

1.1.4 equally spaced not less than 300 mm or more than 380 mm apart and secured in such a manner that they will remain horizontal.

1.2  The side ropes of the embarkation ladder shall consist of two uncovered manila ropes not less than 65 mm in circumference on each side. Each rope shall be continuous with no joints below the top set. Other materials may be used provided the dimensions, breaking strain, weathering, stretching and gripping properties are at least equivalent to those of manila rope. All ends shall be seized or secured to prevent unravelling.