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.