3.4.1 Each accommodation ladder should be of such
a length to ensure that, at a maximum design operating angle of inclination,
the lowest platform will be not more than 600 mm above the waterline
in the lightest seagoing condition, as defined in SOLAS regulation III/3.13.
3.4.2 The arrangement at the head of the accommodation
ladder should provide direct access between the ladder and the ship’s
deck by a platform securely guarded by handrails and adequate handholds.
The ladder should be securely attached to the ship to prevent overturning.
3.4.3 For ships on which the height of the embarkation/disembarkation
deck exceeds 20 m above the waterline specified in paragraph 3.4.1
and on other ships for which the Administration considers compliance
with the provisions of paragraph 3.4.1 impractical, an alternative
means of providing safe access to the ship or supplementary means
of safe access to the bottom platform of the accommodation ladder
may be accepted.