Safe Access Matters: A Lesson from the Gangway Challenge

 🚢 Safe Access Matters: A Lesson from the Gangway Challenge

In shipping, small operational details often decide between smooth sailing and unnecessary risk. One such detail is something we sometimes take for granted — the humble gangway. It’s not just a plank to walk on; it’s the lifeline connecting ship and shore, crew and safety. Recently, a real situation reminded us how critical it is to never compromise on this “small” aspect of ship operations.

 

⚓ The Challenge Faced

Our vessel, alongside at a berth, struggled with a peculiar problem. The port side gangway couldn’t be lowered due to the berth’s layout and mooring spring lines running beneath it.

The Master and crew tried everything: slacking the aft spring to lower the gangway onto a floating platform. But this brought the vessel out of position and created new risks — mooring lines rubbing against the gangway, threatening damage and unsafe conditions.

Finally, the Master made the right call: pick up the gangway clear above the moorings, tighten springs, and secure the vessel safely alongside dolphins. Instead, the starboard side gangway was rigged and kept ready for safe boarding.

👉 The key lesson? Safety must never be sacrificed for convenience.

#ShippingSafety #GangwayMatters #LeadershipAtSea

 

🧭 The Deeper Lesson for Mariners

This wasn’t just about one gangway. It’s a reminder that in shipping, risk assessment comes first. The Master clearly communicated:

• Vessel cannot provide port side access due to berth/mooring nature.
• Only safe alternative: starboard gangway.
• Any boarding must use arrangements provided by stevedores/agents.
• Vessel will not be held responsible for unsafe or makeshift alternatives.

This clear documentation, photos, and communication ensured transparency, avoided disputes, and protected the crew, cargo, and the company.

👉 In our profession, clarity is safety. Not just on the mooring deck, but also in communication.

#MaritimeLeadership #ShipOpsInsights #ClarityIsSafety

 

🌊 Takeaway for the Shipping Fraternity

 

Every ship officer, engineer, or superintendent should remember:

• Always evaluate risk before agreeing to shore requests.
• Document situations with photos and written records.
• Offer safe alternatives, but never compromise.
• Communicate firmly yet respectfully with agents/stevedores.

When you prioritize safety over shortcuts, you earn respect — not just from your crew, but from every stakeholder counting on you. And that’s true leadership at sea.

#SafetyFirst #PositiveShipping #OperationalExcellence

 

✨ Call to Action

Seafarers, superintendents, and shipping friends — what would you have done in this gangway challenge? Have you faced a similar situation where you had to say NO for safety? Share your thoughts in the comments.

👉 Follow ShipOpsInsights with Dattaram for more real-life lessons, positivity, and practical wisdom from the world of shipping. Together, let’s make our industry safer and stronger. ⚓

The above content is shared purely for educational and professional awareness purposes under ShipOpsInsights with Dattaram. Situations onboard vessels may differ, and decisions should always be made considering actual conditions, company policies, statutory regulations, and safety requirements. This is not an official instruction but a learning perspective to encourage safe and positive shipping practices.