Figure 3 - Alternate ladder constructions using mechanical clamps (left) and seizings and step fixtures (right)
4.12 The top face of each step shall have a rectangular surface that is at least 115 mm wide with a surface that is grooved, patterned, or a textured non-skid surface. The step surface shall be designed so that it does not retain water. A textured non-skid surface shall be moulded into the step or adhered directly to it. Non-skid adhesive sheeting may not be used. See Figure 2.
4.13 Each step at its thinnest point shall be at least 25 mm thick. In determining this thickness, the depth of grooves in the top face of the step, and the diameter of any hole extending from one side of the step to the other shall not be included. See Figure 2.
4.14 Each step shall be arranged so that it can bear on the vertical hull of the ship when the ladder is in use.
4.15 The manufacturer shall offer replacement steps, including replacement spreader steps, for the ladder that can replace a removed step, without the need for unstringing and restringing the ladder. Replacement steps shall
