Page 62 - Rules of Navigation2020

Art. 23 - Bow Anchors:

(1) Any transiting vessel must be equipped with two classed anchors located forward of the
collision bulkhead. Each anchor must be fitted with its own chain, wire cable or cable

lifter, and be capable of being released, by gravity and raised by means of a windlass or
capstan (1,2) .

(2) In lieu of 1, vessels of less than 1500 SC.G.T must be equipped with one working anchor
located forward.

(3) Special cases to be studied before transit case by case.
Art. 24 - Accommodation and Pilot Ladder:

A- Pilot Ladder:

(1) In Anchorage Areas, outside the Canal North or South, pilot ladders can be used to
embark, and disembark pilots. The ladder shall be secured in such a position that each

step rests firmly against the vessel’s side and so that the pilot can have safe access to the
vessel.
Whenever the distance from “Pilot Boat” deck to the point of access to the vessel is more

than 13 feet (4 meters), access from the pilot ladder to the vessel shall be made by means
of an accommodation ladder or other equally safe and convenient means.

(2) The treads of the pilot ladder shall not be less than 19 inches long, 4.5 inches wide and 1
inch in thick. Steps shall be joined in such a manner as will provide the ladder with

adequate strength with treads maintained in a horizontal position and not less than 12
inches or more than 15 inches apart.

(3) A man-rope properly secured, and a safety line should be available and ready for use if
required.
(4) Handholds are to be provided to assist the pilot to pass safely and conveniently from the

head of the ladder into the vessel or onto the vessel’s deck and vice versa.
(5) If necessary, spreaders shall be provided at such a distance as will prevent the ladder

from twisting.
(6) The following arrangements must be observed:

a) The rigging of the ladder, the embarkation and disembarkation of the pilot is
supervised by a responsible officer of the vessel.

b) A self-igniting life buoy is to be available at hand.

1 ) If only one anchor (see Para 5, Art.57 p.59) imposed tug to be charged.
2 ) Any vessel unable to use both bow anchors shall transit the Canal as a towed vessel.

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