S.L. 646.2 Art. 12Where depth from level of the deck to the bottom of the hold exceeds one point five metres.

(1) If the depth from the level of the deck to the bottom of the hold exceeds one point five metres, there shall be maintained safe means of access from the deck to the hold in which work is being carried on.

(2) Save as hereinafter provided, such access shall be afforded by a ladder, and by ladder cleats or cups on the coaming, and shall not be deemed to be safe -

(a) unless the ladders between the lower decks are in the same line as the ladder from the top deck, if the same is practicable having regard to the position of the lower hatch or hatches;

(b) unless the ladders provide a foothold of a depth, including any space behind the ladder, of not less than eleven point five centimetres for a width of twenty-five centimetres and a firm handhold;

(c) unless the cleats or cups provided on coaming -

(i) provide a foothold of a depth, including any space behind the cleats or cups, of not less than eleven point five centimetres for a width of twenty-five centimetres and a firm handhold;

(ii) are so constructed as to prevent a man’s foot slipping off the side;

(iii) are placed vertically one above the other and in the same line as the ladders to which they give access;

(d) unless the cargo is stowed sufficiently far from the ladder to leave at each rung of the ladder foothold of a depth, including any space behind the ladder, of not less than eleven point five centimetres for a width of twenty-five centimetres and a firm handhold;

(e) unless there is room to pass between a winch or other obstruction and the coamings at the place where the ladder leaves the decks;

(f) if the ladder is recessed under the deck more than is reasonably necessary to keep the ladder clear of the hatchway:

Provided that such access may be afforded -

(i) where the provision of a ladder on a bulkhead or in a trunk hatchway can be shown to be reasonably impracticable, by cleats or cups complying with the requirements of paragraph (c);

(ii) by ladders or steps, separate from any hatchway or sloping from deck to deck if such ladders or steps comply with the requirements of paragraphs (b), (d) and (e).

(3) Shaft tunnels shall be equipped with adequate handhold and foothold on each side.

(4) When a ladder is to be used in the hold of a vessel which is not decked, a ladder shall be provided, equipped at the top with hooks or with other means for firmly securing it.