ISSUE DATE
ON PILOT AND EMBARKATION LADDER
CERTIFICATES

We often get questions from our clients: “What does the date on a ladder certificate actually mean?”  It’s a natural question – certificates look official, and an expiration date might suggest you need to renew something. Let’s explain it step by step.

Certificate vs. Expiration Date – What Does It Mean?

The first thing to know: the date on the manufacturer’s certificate does not mean that the ladder “expires” on that day. Certificates (e.g., DNV, Lloyd’s Register, or Bureau Veritas) indicate that during a specific period, production was carried out in accordance with applicable technical standards.

In other words – if a ladder was produced during that period, it fully complies with safety standards, even if the manufacturer’s certificate has already expired. Think of it like a laboratory stamp: it confirms that tests were properly performed at the time of production – the “validity” refers to the production process, not the future use of the product.

ISO Standards – The Reference for Ladders

Pilot and embarkation ladders are subject to international ISO standards:

• Pilot ladders: ISO 799-1:2019 – defines design, materials, dimensions, and quality requirements.
• Embarkation ladders: ISO 5489:2024 – applies to rope ladders, their construction, materials, testing, and installation.

The key is that the ladder must be produced during the validity period of the manufacturer’s certificate. This ensures the production process complies with the standards and that the ladder meets SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)requirements.

Practical Example – Making It Clear

Imagine a pilot ladder produced on July 10, 2025, the last day of the DNV certificate validity.

What does this mean in practice?

• The ladder is fully certified.
• It meets ISO 799-1:2019 and SOLAS requirements.
• There is no need to renew or reissue the certificate – what matters is the production date and the technical condition of the ladder.

This approach gives our clients peace of mind: there is no need to worry about formalities if everything was produced during the certified period.

Why Is This Important?

During conversations with clients, we often hear concerns: “Will my equipment be accepted during an inspection?” Now we can answer clearly: if the ladder was produced during the validity of the certificate, it is fully compliant.

This practical explanation helps avoid unnecessary worries and focuses on what truly matters – the safety and technical condition of the ladder.

Summary

• The date on the manufacturer’s certificate refers to the production period, not the usage period of the ladder.
• Ladders produced during that time fully comply with ISO standards and SOLAS requirements.
• Example: a pilot ladder produced on July 10, 2025, is certified and safe, even if the manufacturer’s certificate has expired.