Article 17

     1. Access to a ship`s hold or cargo deck shall be by means of -
     (a) a fixed stairway or,  where this is not practicable,  a fixed
ladder or cleats or cups of suitable dimensions,  of adequate strength
and proper construction; or
     (b) by other means acceptable to the competent authority.
     2. So far as is  reasonably  practicable,  the  means  of  access
specified in this Article shall be separate from the hatchway opening.
     3. Workers shall not use,  or be required to use, any other means
of  access to a ship`s hold or cargo deck than those specified in this
Article.