On a container ship, Both fixed and telescoping gangways can be used and rarely mobile gangways. The accommodation gangway (or accommodation ladder) is typically located on the upper deck, immediately adjacent to or slightly aft of the ship’s superstructure. Although this can change due to the length of the vassal.

When deployed, the gangway points toward the stern (aft) of the vessel.

Key Details

• Location:
  The accommodation ladder is permanently mounted on both the port and starboard sides of the main deck. When not in use, it is normally stored flush against the ship’s hull.

• Direction:
  Under international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations, accommodation ladders must lead aft. This arrangement helps prevent a pilot boat or tender from being forced underneath the ladder by the ship’s forward motion while alongside.

• Amount of Gangways:

  Typically they have 2, one on the starboard and other on the Portside. But some can have up to 4 on a ship depending on the length and company standards.

• Setup Variations:
  The ladder may:

  • be lowered directly onto the dock,

  • be suspended slightly above the dock with a short “brow” gangway connecting it to the pier, or

  • be used together with a vertical pilot ladder when the vessel’s freeboard is exceptionally high.

Other Info:

GANGWAYS

WHAT EVERY PORT CHAPLAIN SHOULD EXPECT

Every ship presents a different boarding experience.

Ganways vary in height, angle, construction,and safety features depending on the vessel, cargo, tide, and terminal.

As a port Chaplain, one of your first responsibilities is to recognize potential hazards before stepping onto the gangway.

Learning what to expect will make every ship visit safer, more professional, and more enjoyable.

YOUR MINISTRY BEGINS BEFORE YOU STEP ON BOARD

BEFORE YOU BOARD

WEAR REQUIRED PPE

OBSERVE BEFORE BOARDING

Look for:

• Condition of the gangway

• Safety net installed

• Proper lighting

• Wet or oily steps

• Excessive angle

• Vessel movement

• Obstructions

• Weather conditions

Safety vest

Hard Hat

Safety Boots

Safety Glasses

Gloves

Port ID & Phone

MEET THE WATCHMAN

CLIMBING THE GANGWAY

ONCE YOU REACH THE TOP

• Maintain three points of contact.

• Hold the handrail.

• Walk - never run.

• Watch every step

• Carry only what you need.

• Wear gloves.

ALWAYS:

NEVER:

• Use your phone while climbing

• At the top of every gangway you will find a member of the crew assigned as the gangway watch.

• Introduce yourself politely.

• Show your Port ID

• Sign the log in if needed

• Wait until you are invited to board.

• Never walk onto a ship without permission.

• Skip Steps

• Carry oversized loads

• Climb if you feel unsafe

• If carrying supplies, distribute the weight evenly.