This paper provides a preliminary review of options for making
marine pilot transfers safer, as the traditional method of
transferring via a pilot ladder has resulted in fatalities and
serious injuries. The project included a review of the literature,
interviews with pilots and a survey of methods used in other
industries for similar tasks. Results indicate that the safety of
the current transfer arrangement would be increased through
strategies including ladder design improvements, use of fall
protection systems and/or use of mechanical personnel elevation
systems. Each of these strategies requires further investigation to
determine the design criteria best suited to the task, the pilot
population and the marine environment. The report also identifies a
number of additional initiatives requiring review that contribute
to reducing the risks in the pilot transfer task.