Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L01541:body:0:p18
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2023L01541
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 42741–45244

it is multi‑flight — must have any intermediate platforms self‑levelling and supported so that it remains horizontal in use; and
(c) if it is telescopic — must have the means to allow the ladder sections to be locked together to prevent variation in length.
      (2) The upper end of an accommodation ladder must be hinged from a fixed or revolving platform that is secured to the vessel and supported so that it remains horizontal in use.
      (3) The lower end of an accommodation ladder must be fitted with a platform that is supported so that it remains horizontal in use.
Note   It is recommended that the lower end of an accommodation ladder resting on a wharf in use is fitted with wheels or rollers to enable free movement.
      (4) The sides of every platform, except access openings, must be fenced in accordance with subclause (7).
      (5) The treads of an accommodation ladder must:
(a) be at least 550 mm in clear width; and
(b) have a non‑slip surface of a depth that avoids clogging; and
(c) be equally spaced so that the ladder may be easily used; and
(d) subject to paragraph (b) — be of a shape and design that gives a person using it a flat or curved surface to step on.
      (6) If a vessel constructed before 25 May 1980 has an accommodation ladder with fixed flat treads and a person using it has to step on a corner edge of the tread, the ladder must be securely fitted with cleated duckboards.
       (7) An accommodation ladder must be fenced on each side of its entire length with upper and intermediate side rails.
      (8) The height of a side rail must be measured from the surface of the treads, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the ladder.
      (9) Side rails must not be more than 0.61 m apart and the upper rail must be at a height of at least 1.07 m.
      (10) However, for a foreign vessel, an inspector may allow the use of a side rail that does not comply with subclause (9) if the inspector considers that it provides adequate protection.
      (11) A side rail may be a fixed rail or a taut rope or chain and must be supported by stanchions spaced not more than 2 m apart.
      (12) Any covering material used on a rope or chain must be removable to allow inspection of the condition of the rope or chain.

1.2 Gangways
      (1) A gangway must:
(a) have a closely boarded walkway, at least 550 mm in clear width, that is fitted with transverse treads at suitable and equally spaced intervals; and
(b) be fenced on each side of its entire length