A considerable number of maritime pilots, both worldwide and in our country, have tragically lost their lives as a result of traumatic injuries sustained after falling from the pilot ladder into the pilot boat while on duty.

This issue, for some reason, has not received the attention it truly deserves so far; however, it is a matter of vital importance that could be further developed and addressed by drawing on practices and insights from other sectors to generate effective solutions.

To give examples from other industries: in hospitals and nursing homes, special floor coverings are used in patient rooms to mitigate the risk of trauma resulting from falls of elderly individuals or patients with limited physical strength. Similarly, in the construction sector, workers operating at height are protected by specialized fall-protection mats designed to absorb impact. Even in a simpler form, elastic tile-like coverings installed on the ground in children’s playgrounds also belong to this category of safety materials.

However, some of the protective surface materials mentioned above may not be suitable for use at sea. Coatings intended for the marine environment are expected to withstand exposure to saltwater, oil, and acids. In fact, certain types of marine-grade coverings, particularly designed for high-speed boats, are already in use, and we are aware that similar products have been developed and deployed on naval vessels in countries such as the United States.

Of course, products most suitable for the nature and operational conditions of pilotage services may need to be purpose-designed or modified accordingly.

In this regard, it can be stated that there is a significant potential and a critical gap where national and international maritime organizations should take the initiative.

As seen in the image above, there are already manufacturers and brands producing for the maritime sector in this field (though we have chosen not to mention the product brand). Naturally, with a few adaptations, the products developed by these companies could be tailored to meet the specific operational requirements and safety standards of pilot boats, and thereby be introduced for use in this area as well.   

In the image below, three different variations of the same product, each in varying thicknesses, are displayed.

All versions are resistant to marine conditions, acids, and oils, offering long service life and non-slip properties in all weather conditions. The product can also be easily cut and applied to a wide range of surfaces.

Key considerations for the application of such products on pilot boats are as follows:

• The surface coating must be designed in a texture and structure that does not trap dirt or oil and allows easy cleaning with high-pressure water.
• Drainage points on pilot boats must be carefully planned and the coating applied accordingly. A draft proposal, supported by artificial intelligence, for a segmented application of these coatings on pilot boats is illustrated in the diagram below.
• Transitions between segments should not be laid out in straight lines but rather arranged with a smooth inclination, at an angle of approximately 15–20 degrees.

Conclusion:

• In order to implement shock- and impact-absorbing coatings on pilot boats, specific requirements and safety standards governing their use must first be established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Achieving this would only be possible if international maritime bodies prepare a draft framework on the subject and submit their recommendations to the relevant authorities.
• Within the scope of such international regulations, national legislation could also be developed, enabling countries to assume a pioneering role in this area.
• Given that pilot safety is a matter of paramount importance, this issue should no longer be delayed; initiatives must be launched as a matter of urgency to develop draft proposals and shape concrete solutions.

Sincerely

Capt.Alpertunga Anıker