Medical testing requirements for NSW marine pilots will be altered in line with the standards used for national rail employees following a review by NSW Maritime, NSW Maritime General Manager Ports and Shipping Tony Middleton said.

According to Middleton, the first review since 1971 of medical requirements for the State's marine pilots, developed in conjunction with the three NSW Port Corporations and the Australian Maritime Officers Union, had resulted in changes which would improve safety in NSW ports.

"In May 2007, NSW Maritime engaged a specialist in occupational medicine to develop a new Standard for Health Assessment for NSW Marine Pilots," Middleton said.

Currently, marine pilots' health standards are based on those for seagoing mariners.

"However, there are key differences in the requirements for medical fitness and health between marine pilots and general mariners.

"For example, general mariners need to maintain a level of fitness commensurate with life at sea where there is no ready access to full medical facilities. Marine pilots have access to full medical facilities ashore. However, they are required to climb the sides of large vessels using rope ladders, often in rough conditions."

"Differences such as these have not previously been taken into account during medical assessments for marine pilots.

"Under the new standard, the frequency of medical assessments will be considered according to an age-risk profile.

"This strategy will direct medical resources to where and when they are needed, and consequently result in improved health of NSW marine pilots."

"Medical assessments under the new standard are expected to begin after several months of information, training and implementation support.'

More at www.maritime.nsw.gov.au

by NSW Maritime

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