(This note is not part of the Regulations)
These Regulations replace the Merchant Shipping (Pilot Ladders and Hoists) Regulations 1987, as amended. They implement Regulation 17 of Chapter V of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention 1974 (SOLAS).
The detailed requirements relating to pilot ladders, accommodation ladders used in conjunction with pilot ladders, mechanical pilot hoists and access to deck are now contained in a Merchant Shipping Notice MSN 1716 (M+F) which includes International Maritime Organization Resolution (IMO) A.667(16) on Pilot Transfer Arrangements (which amplifies Regulation 17 of Chapter V of SOLAS).
Other changes from the 1987 Regulations are that pre- and post-1994 ships are no longer treated differently, and that United Kingdom requirements in excess of SOLAS are removed.
Merchant Shipping Notices can be obtained from distribution agents Eros Marketing Support Services Ltd, Unit B, Imber Court Trading Estate, Orchard Lane, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 0BN (Tel. 0181 957 5028).
SOLAS, amendments to it, and IMO Resolutions may be obtained from IMO, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR.