Embarkation Ladder DMSE-EL

Common issues

• Rope or webbing chafe/fraying at rung attachment points
• Corrosion of metal rungs or fittings on rope-type ladders
• UV degradation of synthetic rope/webbing reducing strength over time
• Stowage reel or bracket seizing from corrosion or lack of lubrication
• Missing or illegible inspection/certification tag
• Kinking or damage from improper stowage

Inspection checklist

• Visually inspect the full length for cuts, fraying, chafe or broken strands
• Check rungs for cracks, corrosion or looseness at the lashings
• Verify the certification/inspection tag is present, legible and current
• Check the stowage arrangement (reel, bag or rack) operates freely and the ladder deploys without obstruction
• Confirm the ladder length is adequate for the freeboard/embarkation station it serves
• Check side ropes for correct tension and no slippage at rung lashings
• Confirm the ladder is free of paint, oil or grease that could reduce grip or hide damage

Service intervals

Critical spares

• Complete replacement ladder section (like-for-like only - SOLAS embarkation ladders should not be spliced or field-repaired)
• Maker-approved rung lashing/securing kit, only if approved for field repair
• Replacement stowage bag/reel

Safety

• This is life-saving equipment - any doubt about integrity means immediate replacement, not repair
• Deploy or practice only under controlled conditions with a safety line
• Check the embarkation station itself for fall hazards, not just the ladder condition
• Never use a ladder that has failed inspection, even temporarily

Class survey

Life-saving appliances, including embarkation ladders, are checked at each annual LSA/safety equipment survey. Surveyor verifies the MED certificate/wheelmark, inspection tag currency, correct stowage, and physical condition against SOLAS requirements at the embarkation station.