Department of Defence - Comcare
The RAN Boarding Ladder
The objective of this project was to design and introduce a boarding party ladder for use with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). Boarding a vessel is a hazardous activity even when an appropriate ladder is deployed, but with suitable controls, risks can be reduced.
The solution was to develop a boarding party ladder that was lightweight, easy to deploy from below and which, once rigged, would allow the member to have a strong foothold and handgrip. This solution is a proactive response to an identified hazard and reflects a sound safety management system.
The use of the boarding party ladder has allowed the procedure for boarding operations to be standardised. This builds confidence in the members of the boarding party because they know what they are expected to do and are familiar with the equipment. Not only has this equipment minimised the chance of injury and reduced risks, but it has also improved efficiency and reduced the number of aborted missions.
Following introduction into the RAN, the boarding party ladder has now been adopted across the maritime community and notable users include the NSW Water Police, NSW Tactical Response Group, Tasmanian Water Police, WA Water Police, QLD Water Police, Customs and SA Fisheries. The ladder is currently being trialled by the US Coastguard.
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Page last updated: 07/02/2008