The spelling of "accommodation ladder" can be explained with IPA phonetic transcription as /əˌkɒm.əˈdeɪ.ʃ(ə)n ˈlædər/. The word "accommodation" is pronounced with schwa in the first syllable, followed by stress on the second syllable with the short o sound. The word "ladder" is pronounced with stress on the first syllable and the short a sound. This type of ladder is used to board a ship and provides access between the deck and dock, or between two ships.
An accommodation ladder refers to a type of portable or fixed ladder that is used in shipping and maritime industries to facilitate the safe embarkation and disembarkation of people or crew members between a vessel and the shore or between two vessels. It provides a means of access or egress from a ship when a direct connection between the vessel's deck and the shore is not feasible.
Typically made of strong and durable materials like steel, the accommodation ladder is designed with an inclined structure consisting of steps or rungs and handrails on either side to ensure the safety of individuals accessing or leaving the ship. It is often attached to the side of the ship or connected to a gangway, which serves as a bridge between the ship and the shore.
The accommodation ladder can be adjusted in length to accommodate varying distances between the ship and the shore, allowing for flexibility in different port locations and tidal conditions. It may also be equipped with safety devices such as non-slip surfaces, lighting, and handholds for better visibility and stability during use.
The use of accommodation ladders is regulated by international maritime regulations, such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), to ensure standardization and adherence to safety measures. It plays a crucial role in enabling the safe and efficient transfer of personnel, supplies, and equipment between ships and the shore, contributing to smooth operations and logistics in the maritime industry.
The word "accommodation ladder" has a nautical origin and its etymology can be traced back to the Latin word "accommodātiō" which means "a fitting" or "provision". This term was eventually combined with the word "ladder", which comes from the Old English word "hlǣder", meaning "a device for ascending or descending". In the context of maritime usage, "accommodation ladder" refers to a portable set of steps or a gangway used to board or disembark a ship from a dock or another vessel.