Gangway security
To effectively deter a stowaway, the vessel should conduct a thorough risk assessment to systematically address all the vulnerabilities on board and manage the likelihood of any security threats. Often, the gangway serves as the first line of defence against stowaways boardings and is regarded as the primary deterrent to stowaway incidents.
To implement the Ship Security Plan (SSP) and comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, ship crew members typically restrict access to the vessel to a single focal point – the gangway. They secure and lock all other unauthorised entry or exit points. The gangway becomes the primary access point, where the crew controls boarding and conducts security checks and routine inspections of baggage before allowing anyone on board.
Stowaways may sometimes attempt to gain access to the vessel by disguising themselves as stevedores walking up the gangway. Therefore, gangway access should be a priority and should be placed under round-the- clock watchful eyes of gangway watchkeepers to check the visitor’s photographic identification (ID). The Ship Security Officer (SSO) should verify visitors against the anticipated visitors list. If any unexpected visitors arrive, the SSO can identify them and take measures to prevent potential stowaway incidents. Additionally, conducting a practical headcount helps the SSO track the number of visitors on board at any time.
Prevention is the primary strategy, but the security level at individual ports may require a combination of watchkeepers, shore-based security personnel, or gangway watchmen, especially at high-risk locations. Therefore, vessel operators should confirm requirements with local regulators and adapt to the specific demands of each port. Furthermore, adequate lighting at night is also crucial for gangway watchkeepers to monitor approaching small crafts or inconspicuous visitors. In practical terms, vessels may raise the gangway during low tides or when they have a low freeboard, if permitted by the port authority, to prevent unauthorised boarding.
While gangway watchkeepers stationed at the gangway could significantly reduce the risk of stowaways, it is also essential to recognise that security extends beyond the gangway. A more comprehensive approach, following the recommendations of IMO’s Resolution FAL.13(42) – Revised Guidelines on the Prevention of Access by Stowaways and the Allocation of Responsibilities to Seek the Successful Resolution of Stowaway Cases, may be adopted.
Potential hazards Potential gangway hazards include:
- Loose handrails - Insufficient lighting - Wet and slippery surfaces - Unsecured gangway netting - Poorly positioned nets - Falling off gangway or ladders - Movements of the gangway - Being struck by moving materials
THE REPORT | DEC 2024 | ISSUE 110 | 143
Safety tips
Below are some potential practical safety tips and recommendations when using gangways:
- The gangway should be free from repair and attention should be paid to areas where there are aluminium to steel connections. The absence or deterioration of an insulating gasket can lead to electrolytic corrosion, which will cause wastage and weakening of the gangway structure.
- The gangway should be inspected regularly to ensure it is in good condition and free from defects.
- The gangway should be maintained as per the vessel’s planned maintenance system to allow early detection of defective moving parts and ensure it is kept in good condition.
- The gangway should be secured to the ship to prevent it from moving or slipping.
- The gangway should be trimmed correctly to ensure that it is level and not inclined at an excessive angle. It should not be greater than 30°¹, nor should it exceed the maximum permitted design angle of inclination, as indicated on the marking plate.
- The gangway should be clearly marked with the safe working load to forewarn personnel boarding the gangway and ensure it will not be overloaded.
- The gangway should be illuminated adequately to ensure it is visible and safe to use at night.
- The gangway should be kept clear of obstructions to provide a safe passage for users.
- The gangway should have handrails on each side to provide support and prevent falls.
- The gangway should only be rigged by authorised personnel who have received training on gangway operations.
- Crew should always wear a safety harness and lifejacket while rigging a gangway.
- The gangway should be used with caution, especially when carrying heavy or bulky items which may affect its balance and stability.
- Crew should always wear proper footwear that provides good traction and grip to prevent slips and falls.
- The gangway should be inspected regularly by the officers on duty or gangway watchmen.
- All visitors should be verified against their photo ID and the visitor list.
- A proper headcount should be carried out to determine the number of visitors boarded.
- A risk assessment should be completed prior to rigging and the gangway secured as per the company’s safety management system, SSP and the provided checklists.
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