PSC deficiency code 10101: Pilot ladders and pilot transfer arrangements
Deficiency code: Paris MoU on Port State Control, List of Deficiency Codes including Statutory Certificates (1 July 2026). Page titles are closethecap.com's own wording.
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| Category | Navigation (SOLAS V) |
| Related certificate | Cargo Ship Safety Equipment / Passenger Ship Safety Certificate / High Speed Craft Safety Certificate |
| Main references | SOLAS V/23; IMO Res. A.1045(27) (current); from 1 Jan 2028 SOLAS V/23 as replaced by MSC.572(110) and the performance standards MSC.576(110) |
| Typical action codes | 17 (rectify before departure), 30 (detainable) if serious |
| Commonly detainable? | Can be, depending on severity (no statistics claimed) |
From 1 Jan 2028 mechanical pilot hoists shall not be used (new V/23.10). Arrangements installed on or after 1 Jan 2028 must comply from installation; existing arrangements on SOLAS ships must meet the new design and installation requirements by the first survey on or after 1 Jan 2029. Inspection, stowage, maintenance, replacement and familiarisation per MSC.576(110) parts D–E applies to all ships from 1 Jan 2028.
What PSC officers look for
- Pilot ladder not rigged per IMO guidance (step spacing, spreaders, securing)
- Combination ladder arrangements unsafe or not approved
- Pilot hoist not maintained or crew not trained in operation
- Side opening not clear; lighting inadequate for night transfer
- Records of pilot ladder inspection missing or overdue
Typical root causes
- Pilot ladder stowed wet and deteriorated without replacement
- Spare ladder not carried when required by flag or company
- Confusion over when to use accommodation ladder vs pilot ladder
- Hoist maintenance deferred; maker service not booked
Corrective action (example)
Replace or repair defective ladder or hoist; rig transfer arrangement per SOLAS and IMO pilot transfer guide; conduct familiarisation with deck crew; update inspection record.
Preventive action (example)
Include pilot ladder and hoist in monthly deck safety round; track certificate and replacement interval in PMS.
Evidence to attach for close-out
- Photos of rigged arrangement
- Pilot ladder inspection checklist
- Hoist maintenance record if fitted
- Crew briefing sheet
Related
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