The Most Dangerous Places Near Water – and How to Make Them Safer When we...
OLD Chain Ladder, Quay
The Chain Ladder (also known as the Pilot Ladder) combines strength, safety, and flexibility in a compact design. It is made from hot-dip galvanized steel with an extra-thick zinc coating — 200 µm on the chain and 100 µm on the rungs, compared with the standard 75 µm — providing superior protection against corrosion and wear.
For environments requiring maximum corrosion resistance, the ladder is also available in acid-resistant stainless steel. The anodized and powder-coated aluminum handle is designed to fit comfortably into both urban and industrial settings, while the road-sign–grade reflective sign and markings guarantee visibility and compliance with safety regulations for at least ten years.
Flexible by design, the chain ladder is more resistant to ice than fixed ladders, making it ideal for northern climates and year-round use.
Product overview
he Shore Safety Chain Ladder, also known as the Pilot Ladder, is a robust and flexible rescue ladder designed to provide safe and reliable access from the water along quays, harbors, and industrial docks. Built to endure demanding coastal conditions, it combines strength, visibility, and long-term corrosion resistance in a compact and maintenance-free design.
Each ladder is constructed from hot-dip galvanized steel with an extra-thick zinc coating — 200 µm on the chain and 100 µm on the rungs, compared to the industry standard of 75 µm — offering exceptional protection against corrosion, wear, and saltwater exposure. For environments requiring maximum durability, such as heavily trafficked ports or brackish-water areas, the ladder is also available in acid-resistant stainless steel (Type 316, Item No. 1710).
The anodized and powder-coated aluminum handle is ergonomically shaped to make climbing safe and comfortable while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. Its sleek design reduces the risk of tripping when installed near sidewalks or walkways and is engineered to withstand all climates — from Nordic winters to coastal heat.
Polyethylene spacers keep the ladder positioned safely away from the quay wall, preventing abrasion and ensuring easy climbing. Reflective components — including the road-sign–grade reflective sign, handle, and tube markings — make the ladder highly visible both day and night. These materials provide a guaranteed reflective performance of ten years, ensuring that the ladder remains clearly marked and compliant with Swedish and European safety standards throughout its lifespan.
Additional information
| Width | 0.49 m (hot-dip galvanized) / 0.43 m (stainless steel) |
|---|---|
| Length | Standard: 3,3 m (but we can manufacture after your demands) |
| Height | – |
| Weight | – |
| Materials | Hot-dip galvanized steel with extra thick zinc coating, 200 µm (standard 75 µm) |
| Color | – |
| Reflectors | Road-sign type reflector, guaranteed reflective function for ten years |
| Special | We can make chain ladders in the length of your choice |
Installation
The Chain Ladder should be installed so that it is clearly visible from multiple angles. Ladders must be placed 25–50 meters apart, according to safety regulations, and must extend at least one meter below the normal low-water level to ensure accessibility at all times. Attach the included reflectors and sign to increase visibility in low-light conditions. Shore Safety provides mounting instructions and hardware for both stone and wooden quays to guarantee long-term stability and compliance with SRVFS 2007:5.
Documentation
Assembly instructions
Chain ladder
Design Features
Handle
Our ergonomic handle makes it easier and more convenient to climb over quay edges. The handle’s sleek design reduces the risk of tripping on the handle when it’s placed near a side walk. The handle is made of moulded aluminium and designed to hold up in all climates and to fit into the urban environment on both stone- and wooden quays.
Ice resistant
Note that a flexible chain ladder is more resistant to ice than a fixed ladder.
Durability
The chain ladder is made of hot dip galvanized or stainless steel.
Rescue marked
Reflectors indicate the way out of the water. The sign and the handle also come with reflectors.
About Shore safety
SWEDISH HANDCRAFTED QUALITY FOR DECADES
Quality
Built for real conditions, not just specifications.
With decades of experience in waterside safety, our equipment is designed, tested, and manufactured in Sweden to perform where it matters most. Every product meets strict MSB requirements and is made to deliver reliable, long-term safety in demanding environments.
Warranty
Designed to last — and backed accordingly.
Our lifesaving equipment is engineered for durability, dependable performance, and minimal maintenance throughout its lifecycle. Tested under Nordic conditions, each product is built for long service life and consistent function, so you can trust it to be ready when needed.
Shipping
From our facility to yours — safely and efficiently.
All equipment is shipped directly from Sweden through trusted logistics partners. This ensures reliable delivery, consistent quality control, and predictable lead times, so products arrive secure, on time, and ready for installation.
FAQ
Commonly asked question regarding chain ladder
Answers to common questions regarding materials, installation, durability, and regulatory considerations for waterfront rescue ladders.
Have any questions?
What is the purpose of the Shore Safety Chain Ladder?
The Chain Ladder provides a safe, permanent way to climb out of the water from quays, harbor walls, or docks where fixed stairs are not available. It ensures accessibility during emergencies or accidental falls into the water.
What materials are used in the ladder’s construction?
The ladder is made from hot-dip galvanized steel with an extra-thick zinc coating (200 µm on chains and 100 µm on rungs). It is also available in stainless acid-resistant steel, Type 316, for marine and saltwater environments.
How visible is the ladder in darkness or poor weather?
The ladder features road-sign–grade reflective materials on the handle, sign, and tubes. These reflectors have a guaranteed 10-year reflective function, clearly showing the way out of the water, day or night.
How should the Chain Ladder be installed?
It should be placed every 25–50 meters along the quay and extend at least one meter below the low-water level. The included counterweight keeps the ladder straight, while spacers ensure proper clearance from the wall for safe climbing..