Safe Steps Matter: Complying with Brazilian Gangway Regulations to Avoid Fines

 ⚓ Safe Steps Matter: Complying with Brazilian Gangway Regulations to Avoid Fines

❓Three Questions to Spark Curiosity:

• Can a poorly secured gangway really result in port fines—even if no accident occurs?
• Are you aware of Brazil’s specific gangway safety rules under labour laws?
• Could your next port inspection end with an unexpected penalty simply due to lighting?

📜 Clause Breakdown: Gangway Safety Compliance in Brazilian Ports

When calling Brazilian ports, the vessel must strictly comply with local labour regulations concerning gangway setup and safety. The Port Health Authority and Labour Inspection Agencies regularly inspect gangways—and non-compliance can lead to significant fines, detention, or even revocation of port services.

💡 What the Clause Says:

“Please see here below instructions concerning assembling of ship’s gangway as per Brazilian labour rules which you shall comply strictly in order to avoid fines against your good vessel..."

It continues with 9 specific safety requirements:

1. Good Condition & Quay Contact – Gangway must be well-maintained and resting on the quay at all times, not hanging mid-air.
2. Long Safety Net – Entire length of the gangway must be covered with a protective safety net.
3. Rope Guardrails – Guardrails must be tight and intact on both sides.
4. Top Safety Net – Additional safety net from gangway top (shore side) to ship’s side is mandatory.
5. Free of Hazards – Steps must be free of oil, grease, or ice—preventing slip risks.
6. Platform Leveling – Where fitted, bottom platform must be level and steady.
7. Proper Lighting – Gangway must be well-lit, especially for night access.
8. No Obstruction – Base area should be clear of obstacles or debris.
9. Life-saving Devices – A life-buoy with light and line must be placed nearby.

⚖️ Implications & Pitfalls

• Regulatory Penalties: Failure to comply may result in immediate fines (as per Brazilian NR-29 Maritime Labour regulations).
• Reputation Damage: Repeat violations could tarnish your PSC history or charterer confidence.
• Crew and Visitor Safety: Beyond compliance, crew safety is paramount; slips or falls can cause serious injury and legal liabilities.

📌 Real-World Example:

In a 2022 case in Santos, a bulk carrier was fined over USD 5,000 for failing to secure a proper gangway safety net, even though no one was injured.

📚 BIMCO Insight:

While BIMCO clauses may not directly cover port-specific gangway rules, BIMCO Port Log guidance and ISM Code Section 7 recommend adherence to local authority safety procedures as a best practice.

✅ Actionable Steps for Operators, Managers, Owners, and Charterers

1. Circulate Brazilian Gangway Guidelines to Master and Chief Officer before arrival.
2. Inspect Gangway Equipment onboard—nets, rails, platform, lights—at sea en route to Brazil.
3. Conduct Mock Setup & Audit prior to port entry.
4. Log All Safety Measures in the ship’s Safety Management System (SMS).
5. Train Crew Regularly on proper rigging and gangway handling.
6. Keep Photos Ready for evidence in case of inspection or dispute.

📣 Conclusion: Stay Proactive, Stay Compliant

Your gangway is not just a passage—it’s a first impression, a legal obligation, and a safety lifeline. Especially in ports like those in Brazil, proactive compliance can save thousands of dollars and ensure smooth operations.

🛟 Don’t let simple safety oversights lead to costly complications.

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🛡️ Disclaimer

This article is written with the aim to Educate, Explain, and Assist maritime professionals in understanding local port compliance requirements. Information is based on available guidelines and practical experience as of the date of publication. For the most accurate and up-to-date legal requirements, always consult local port authorities or your marine legal advisor. The author and ShipOpsInsight are not responsible for regulatory penalties incurred by failure to comply with official port rules.