What is the primary function of an accommodation ladder?

The primary function of an accommodation ladder is to allow boarding of a moored or anchored ship. This essential piece of equipment serves as a safe and accessible means for personnel to embark and disembark from the vessel while it is positioned alongside a pier, dock, or other surface.

Accommodation ladders are designed to provide a gradual incline, making it easier for sailors and visitors to navigate safely between the ship and the shore, especially when the ship is at a higher level due to tide variations or docking arrangements.

Other functions, such as facilitating emergency evacuation or assisting with cargo loading, may involve separate equipment designed specifically for those tasks. While an accommodation ladder can theoretically assist in emergencies, its fundamental purpose is primarily focused on safe boarding and disembarking. The option to provide access to the brig does not align with the typical use of an accommodation ladder, which is more about general access rather than specific access to particular areas of the ship.