Overview
ISO 7061:2015 - Ships and marine technology - Aluminium shore gangways for seagoing vessels - defines safety, design and construction requirements for aluminium shore gangways carried on board ships to provide lightweight, convenient access from ship to shore (and ship-to-ship under favourable conditions). The standard covers gangways used horizontally or inclined up to 30° (with Type B designs able to 55° with special step/decking considerations). ISO 7061:2015 expressly excludes gangways intended to carry wheeled traffic such as loaded trolleys.
Key Topics
- Scope and types: Two main types are specified - Type A (decking plate gangway) and Type B (anti-slip arc steps gangway). Type A: max inclination 30°. Type B: step-type surface, up to 55° with special design considerations.
- Dimensions: Minimum overall length 2 m; increments ~0.5 m up to 9 m and ~1 m thereafter. Net width is 600 mm (typical arrangement shown in figures).
- Materials: Aluminium alloys and alternatives listed for side frames, cross-members, decking, steps, stanchions and rollers (e.g., AW‑6060, AW‑6082, AW‑5052, AW‑6005A, AW‑5019). Guidance on avoiding dissimilar metal contact to prevent galvanic corrosion.
- Design and construction: Requirements for side stringers, cross-members, decking, steps, stanchions, handrails, toe-boards, lifting lugs, securing devices and anti‑slip features. Special provisions for use on tankers (earthing and spark prevention).
- Loads and safety: Design loading, factors of safety and structural requirements are specified to ensure safe crew access.
- Quality, tests and inspections: Includes type tests and individual tests with test methods for lifting, initial sag and deflection under load, plus manufacturing tolerances, surface finish and marking requirements.
- Limitations: Not intended for wheeled loads; users must also comply with applicable statutory and classification requirements for the individual ship.
Applications
ISO 7061:2015 is used by:
- Shipbuilders and naval architects designing or specifying aluminium gangways
- Gangway manufacturers and fabricators to meet marine safety and performance requirements
- Ship operators, crew safety officers and port authorities assessing safe embarkation/disembarkation equipment
- Classification societies and regulators reviewing compliance and certification
Practical applications include crew transfer, routine shipboard access at berth, and limited ship-to-ship access when conditions permit.
Related Standards
Normative and related references cited include (selection):
For anyone specifying or procuring shore gangways, ISO 7061:2015 provides authoritative guidance to ensure safe, compliant aluminium gangway design and manufacture.
