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Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972
Foreword
The Convention on the International regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 has been accepted by many States since it was adopted on 20 october 1972 and entered into force on 15 July 1977. It was amended in 1981, 1987, 1989 and 1993 and has more recently been amended by resolution A.910(22), which was adopted by the twenty-second session of the Assembly on 29 November 2001 and entered into force on 29 November 2003. This publication contains the consolided text of the 1972 Convention as amended in 1981, 1987, 1989, 1993 and 2001.
Contents
Convention on the International
Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea,
1972, as amended
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972,
as amended
Part A - General
Part B - Steering and sailing rules
Part C - Lights and shapes
Part D - Sound and light signals
Part E - Exemptions
Annex I - Positioning and technical details of lights and
shapes
Annex II - Additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in
close proximity
Annex III - Technical details of sound signal appliances
Annex IV -Distress signals
Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended
THE PARTIES TO THE PRESENT CONVENTION,
DESIRING to maintain a high level of safety at sea,
MINDFUL of the need to revise and bring up to date the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
annexed to the Final Act of the International Conference on
Safety of Life at Sea, 1960,
HAVING CONSIDERED those Regulations in the light of developments
since they were approved,
HAVE AGREED as follows:
Article I
General obligations
The Parties to the present Convention undertake to give effect to the Rules and other Annexes constituting the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, (hereinafter referred to as "the Regulations") attached hereto.
Article II
Signature, ratification, acceptance,
approval and accession
1. The present Convention shall
remain open for signature until 1 June 1973 and shall thereafter
remain open for accession.
2. States Members of the United Nations, or of any of the
Specialized Agencies, or the International Atomic Energy Agency,
or Parties to the Statute of the International Court of Justice
may become Parties to this Convention by:
(a) signature without reservation as to ratification, acceptance
or approval;
(b) signature subject to ratification, acceptance or approval
followed by ratification, acceptance or approval; or
(c) accession.
3. Ratification, acceptance, approval or accession shall be
effected by the deposit of an instrument to that effect with the
Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization*
(hereinafter referred to as "the Organization") which shall
inform the Governments of States that have signed or acceded to
the present Convention of the deposit of each instrument and of
the date of its deposit.
Article
III
Territorial application
1. The United Nations in cases
where they are the administering authority for a territory or any
Contracting Party responsible for the international relations of
a territory may at any time by notification in writing to the
Secretary-General of the Organization (hereinafter referred to as
"the Secretary-General"), extend the application of this
Convention to such a territory.
2. The present Convention shall, upon the date of receipt of the
notification or from such other date as may be specified in the
notification, extend to the territory named therein.
3. Any notification made in accordance with paragraph 1 of this
Article may be withdrawn in respect of any territory mentioned in
that notification and the extension of this Convention to that
territory shall cease to apply after one year or such longer
period as may be specified at the time of the withdrawal.
4. The Secretary-General shall inform all Contracting Parties of the notification of any extension or withdrawal of any extension communicated under this Article.
Article IV
Entry into force
1. (a) The present Convention
shall enter into force twelve months after the date on which at
least 15 States, the aggregate of whose merchant fleets
constitutes not less than 65 per cent by number or by tonnage of
the world fleet of vessels of 100 gross tons and over have become
Parties to it, whichever is achieved first.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions in sub-paragraph (a) of this
paragraph, the present Convention shall not enter into force
before 1 January 1976.
2. Entry into force for States
which ratify, accept, approve or accede to this Convention in
accordance with Article II after the conditions prescribed in
sub-paragraph 1(a) have been met and before the Convention enters
into force, shall be on the date of entry into force of the
Convention.
3. Entry into force for States which ratify, accept, approve or
accede after the date on which this Convention enters into force,
shall be on the date of deposit of an instrument in accordance
with Article II.
4. After the date of entry into force of an amendment to this
Convention in accordance with paragraph 4 of Article VI, any
ratification, acceptance, approval or accession shall apply to
the Convention as amended.
5. On the date of entry into force of this Convention, the
Regulations replace and abrogate the International Regulations
for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1960.
6. The Secretary-General shall inform the Governments of States
that have signed or acceded to this Convention of the date of its
entry into force.
Article V
Revision conference
1. A Conference for the purpose of
revising this Convention or the Regulations or both may be
convened by the Organization.
2. The Organization shall convene a Conference of Contracting
Parties for the purpose of revising this Convention or the
Regulations or both at the request of not less than one-third of
the Contracting Parties.
Article VI
Amendments to the Regulations
1. Any amendment to the
Regulations proposed by a Contracting Party shall be considered
in the Organization at the request of that Party.
2. If adopted by a two-thirds majority of those present and
voting in the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization, such
amendment shall be communicated to all Contracting Parties and
Members of the Organization at least six months prior to its
consideration by the Assembly of the Organization. Any
Contracting Party which is not a Member of the Organization shall
be entitled to participate when the amendment is considered by
the Assembly.
3. If adopted by a two-third majority of those present and voting
in the Assembly, the amendment shall be communicated by the
Secretary-General to all Contracting Parties for their
acceptance.
4. Such an amendment shall enter into force on a date to be
determined by the Assembly at the time of its adoption unless, by
a prior date determined by the Assembly at the same time, more
than one-third of the Contracting Parties notify the Organization
of their objection to the amendment. Determination by the
Assembly of the dates referred to in this paragraph shall be by a
two-thirds majority of those present and voting.
5. On entry into force any amendment shall, for all Contracting
Parties which have not objected to the amendment, replace and
supersede any previous provision to which the amendment
refers.
6. The Secretary-General shall inform all Contracting Parties and
Members of the Organization of any request and communication
under this Article and the date on which any amendment enters
into force.
Article
VII
Denunciation
1. The present Convention may be
denounced by a Contracting Party at any time after the expiry of
five years from the date on which the Convention entered into
force for that Party.
2. Denunciation shall be effected by the deposit of an instrument
with the Organization. The Secretary-General shall inform all
other Contracting Parties of the receipt of the instrument of
denunciation and of the date of its deposit.
3. A denunciation shall take effect one year, or such longer
period as may be specified in the instrument, after its
deposit.
Article
VIII
Deposit and registration
1. The present Convention and the
Regulations shall be deposited with the Organization, and the
Secretary-General shall transmit certified true copies thereof to
all Governments of States that have signed this Convention or
acceded to it.
2. When the present Convention enters into force, the text shall
be transmitted by the Secretary-General to the Secretariat of the
United Nations for registration and publication in accordance
with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations.
Article IX
Languages
The present Convention is
established, together with the Regulations, in a single copy in
the English and French languages, both texts being equally
authentic. Official translations in the Russian and Spanish
languages shall be prepared and deposited with the signed
original.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned being duly authorized by their
respective Governments for that purpose have signed the present
Convention.
DONE AT LONDON this twentieth day of October one thousand nine
hundred and seventy-two.
INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA, 1972
PART A
GENERAL
Rule 1
Application
(a) These Rules shall apply to all
vessels upon the high seas and in all waters connected therewith
navigable by seagoing vessels.
(b) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of
special rules made by an appropriate authority for roadsteads,
harbours, rivers, lakes or inland waterways connected with the
high seas and navigable by seagoing vessels. Such special rules
shall conform as closely as possible to these Rules.
(c) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of
any special rules made by the Government of any State with
respect to additional station or signal lights or whistle signals
for ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy, or with
respect to additional station or signal lights for fishing
vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet. These additional station
or signal lights or whistle signals shall, so far as possible, be
such that they cannot be mistaken for any light or signal
authorized elsewhere under these Rules.
(d) Traffic separation schemes may be adopted by the Organization
for the purpose of these Rules.
(e) Whenever the Government concerned shall have determined that
a vessel of special construction or purpose cannot comply fully
with the provisions of any of these Rules with respect to the
number, position, range or arc of visibility of lights or shapes,
as well as to the disposition and characteristics of
sound-signalling appliances, without interfering with the special
function of the vessel, such vessel shall comply with such other
provisions in regard to the number, position, range or arc of
visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and
characteristics of sound-signalling appliances, as her Government
shall have determined to be the closest possible compliance with
these Rules in respect to that vessel.
Rule 2
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall
exonerate any vessel, or the owner, master or crew thereof, from
the consequences of any neglect to comply with these Rules or of
the neglect of any precaution which may be required by the
ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of
the case.
(b) In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall
be had to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any
special circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels
involved, which may make a departure from these Rules necessary
to avoid immediate danger.
Rule 3
General definitions
For the purpose of these Rules,
except where the context otherwise requires:
(a) The word "vessel" includes every description of water craft,
including non-displacement craft WIG craft and seaplanes, used or
capable of being used as a means of transportation on
water.
(b) The term "power-driven vessel" means any vessel propelled by
machinery.
(c) The term "sailing vessel" means any vessel under sail
provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being
used.
(d) The term "vessel engaged in fishing" means any vessel fishing
with nets, lines, trawls or other fishing apparatus which
restrict manoeuvrability, but does not include a vessel fishing
with trolling lines or other fishing apparatus which do not
restrict manoeuvrability.
(e) The word "seaplane" includes any aircraft designed to
manoeuvre on the water.
(f) The term "vessel not under command" means a vessel which
through some exceptional circumstance is unable to manoeuvre as
required by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of
the way of another vessel.
(g) The term "vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre"
means a vessel which from the nature of her work is restricted in
her ability to manoeuvre as required by these Rules and is
therefore unable to keep out of the way of another vessel. The
term "vessels restricted in their ability to manoeuvre" shall
include but not be limited to:
(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a
navigation mark, submarine cable or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or underwater
operations;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons,
provisions or cargo while underway;
(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching or recovery of
aircraft;
(v) a vessel engaged in minesweeping operations;
(vi) a vessel engaged in a towing operation such as severely
restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability to
deviate from their course.
(h) The term "vessel constrained by her draught" means a
power-driven vessel which, because of her draught in relation to
the available depth of water is severely restricted in her
ability to deviate from the course she is following.
(i) The word "underway" means that a vessel is not at anchor, or
made fast to the shore, or aground.
(j) The words "length" and "breath" of a vessel mean her length
overall and greatest breadth.
(k) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only
when one can be observed visually from the other.
(l) The term "restricted visibility" means any condition in which
visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy
rainstorms, sandstorms or any other similar causes.
(m) The term Wing - In - Ground (WIG) craft means a multimodal
craft which, in its main operational mode, flies in close
proximity to the surface by utilizing surface-effect action.
PART B
STEERING AND SAILING RULES
SECTION I - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN ANY CONDITION OF
VISIBILITY
Rule 4
Application
Rules in this Section apply in any condition of visibility.
Rule 5
Look-out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.
Rule 6
Safe speed
Every vessel shall at all times
proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective
action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance
appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among
those taken into account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) the state of visibility;
(ii) the traffic density including concentrations of fishing
vessels or any other vessels;
(iii) the manoeuvrability of the vessel with special reference to
stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing
conditions;
(iv) at night the presence of background light such as from shore
lights or from back scatter of her own lights;
(v) the state of wind, sea and current, and the proximity of
navigational hazards;
(vi) the draught in relation to the available depth of
water.
(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:
(i) the characteristics, efficiency and limitations of the radar
equipment;
(ii) any constraints imposed by the radar range scale in
use;
(iii) the effect on radar detection of the sea state, weather and
other sources of interference;
(iv) the possibility that small vessels, ice and other floating
objects may not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(v) the number, location and movement of vessels detected by
radar;
(vi) the more exact assessment of the visibility that may be
possible when radar is used to determine the range of vessels or
other objects in the vicinity.
Rule 7
Risk of collision
(a) Every vessel shall use all
available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and
conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there is
any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.
(b) Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and
operational, including long-range scanning to obtain early
warning of risk of collision and radar plotting or equivalent
systematic observation of detected objects.
(c) Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty
information, especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision exists the following
considerations shall be among those taken into account:
(i) such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing on
an approaching vessel does not appreciably change;
(ii) such risks may sometimes exist even when an appreciable
bearing change is evident, particularly when approaching a very
large vessel or a tow or when approaching a vessel at close
range.
Rule 8
Action to avoid collision
(a) Any action to avoid collision
shall be taken , in accordance with the Rules of this part and
shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be positive, made
in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good
seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision
shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to
be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by
radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed
should be avoided.
(c) lf there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone
may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters
situation provided that is made in good time, is substantial and
does not result in another close-quarters situation.
(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be
such as to result in passing at a safe distance. The
effectiveness of the action shall be carefully checked until the
other vessel is finally past and clear.
(e) If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess
the situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way
off by stopping or reversing her means of propulsion.
(f) (i) A vessel which, by any of these rules, is required not to
impede the passage or safe passage of another vessel shall, when
required by the circumstances of the case, take early action to
allow sufficient sea-room for the safe passage of the other
vessel.
(ii) A vessel required not to impede the passage of another
vessel is not relieved of this obligation if approaching the
other vessel so as to involve risk of collision and shall, when
taking action, have full regard to the action which may be
required by the rules of this part.
(iii) A vessel the passage of which is not to be impeded remains
fully obliged to comply with the rules of this part when the two
vessels are approaching one another so as to involve risk of
collision.
Rule 9
Narrow channels
(a) A vessel proceeding along the
course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep as near to the
outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard
side as is safe and practicable.
(b) A vessel of less than 20 metres in length or a sailing vessel
shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely
navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of
any other vessel navigating within a narrow channel or
fairway.
(d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such
crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely
navigate only within such channel or fairway. The latter vessel
may use the sound signal prescribed in Rule 34(d) if in doubt as
to the intention of the crossing vessel.
(e) (i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking can take
place only if the vessel to be overtaken has to take action to
permit safe passing, the vessel intending to overtake shall
indicate her intention by sounding the appropriate signal
prescribed in Rule 34(c)(i). The vessel to be overtaken shall, if
in agreement, sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule
34(c)(ii) and take steps to permit safe passing. If in doubt she
may sound the signals prescribed in Rule 34(d).
(ii) This Rule does not relieve the overtaking vessel of her
obligation under Rule 13.
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or
fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening
obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution
and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule
34(e).
(g) Any vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit,
avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.
Rule 10
Traffic separation schemes
(a) This Rule applies to traffic
separation schemes adopted by the Organization and does not
relieve any vessel of her obligation under any other rule.
(b) A vessel using a traffic separation scheme shall:
(i) proceed in the appropriate traffic lane in the general
direction of traffic flow for that lane;
(ii) so far as practicable keep clear of a traffic separation
line or separation zone;
(iii) normally join or leave a traffic lane at the termination of
the lane, but when joining or leaving from either side shall do
so at as small an angle to the general direction of traffic flow
as practicable.
(c) A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic
lanes, but if obliged to do so shall cross as nearly as
practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic
flow.
(d) (i) A vessel shall not use an inshore traffic zone when she
can safely use the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent
separation scheme. However, vessels of less than 20 metres in
length, sailing vessels and vessels engaged in fishing may use
the inshore traffic zone.
(ii) Notwithstanding subparagraph (d) (i), a vessel may use an
inshore traffic zone when en route to or from a port,
offshore installation or structure, pilot station or any other
place situated within the inshore traffic zone, or to avoid
immediate danger.
(e) A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or
leaving a lane shall not normally enter a separation zone or
cross a separation line except:
(i) in cases of emergency to avoid immediate danger;
(ii) to engage in fishing within a separation zone.
(f) A vessel navigating in areas
near the terminations of traffic separation schemes shall do so
with particular caution.
(g) A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid anchoring in a
traffic separation scheme or in areas near its
terminations.
(h) A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme shall avoid it
by as wide a margin as practicable.
(i) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of
any vessel following a traffic lane.
(j) A vessel of less than 20 metres in length or a sailing vessel
shall not impede the safe passage of a power-driven vessel
following a traffic lane.
(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre when engaged
in an operation for the maintenance of safety of navigation in a
traffic separation scheme is exempted from complying with this
Rule to the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
(l) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre when engaged
in an aperation for the laying, servicing or picking up of a
submarine cable, within a traffic separation scheme, is exempted
from complying with this Rule to the extent necessary to carry
out the operation.
SECTION II -
CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER
Rule 11
Application
Rules in this Section apply to vessels in sight of one another.
Rule 12
Sailing vessels
(a) When two sailing vessels are
approaching one another, so as to involve risk of collision, one
of them shall keep out of the way of the other as follows:
(i) when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which
has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the
other;
(ii) when both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which
is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is
to leeward;
(iii) if a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to
windward and cannot determine with certainty whether the other
vessel has the wind on the port side or on the starboard side,
she shall keep out of the way of the other.
(b) For the purposes of this Rule the windward side shall be
deemed to be the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is
carried or, in the case of a square-rigged vessel, the side
opposite to that on which the largest fore-and-aft sail is
carried.
Rule 13
Overtaking
(a) Notwithstanding anything
contained in the Rules of part B Sections I and II, any vessel
overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel
being overtaken.
(b) A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with
another vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft her
beam, that is, in such a position with reference to the vessel
she is overtaking, that at night she would be able to see only
the sternlight of that vessel but neither of her
sidelights.
c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether she is overtaking
another, she shall assume that this is the case and act
accordingly.
(d) Any subsequent alteration of the bearing between the two
vessels shall not make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel
within the meaning of these Rules or relieve her of the duty of
keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until she is finally past
and clear.
Rule 14
Head-on situation
(a) When two power-driven vessels
are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to
involve risk of collision each shall alter her course to
starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the
other.
(b) Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees
the other ahead or nearly ahead and by night she could see the
masthead lights of the other in a line or nearly in a line and/or
both sidelights and by day she observes the corresponding aspect
of the other vessel.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation
exists she shall assume that it does exist and act
accordingly.
Rule 15
Crossing situation
When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.
Rule 16
Action by give-way vessel
Every vessel which is directed by these Rules to keep out of the way of another vessel shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
Rule 17
Action by stand-on vessel
(a) (i) Where one of two vessels
is to keep out of the way the other shall keep her course and
speed.
(ii) The latter vessel may however take action to avoid collision
by her manoeuvre alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her
that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking
appropriate action in compliance with these Rules.
(b) When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course
and speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided
by the action of the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such
action as will best aid to avoid collision.
(c) A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing
situation in accordance with sub-paragraph (a)(ii) of this Rule
to avoid collision with another power-driven vessel shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, not alter course to port for a
vessel on her own port side.
(d) This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of her
obligation to keep out of the way.
Rule 18
Responsibilities between vessels
Except where Rules 9, 10 and 13
otherwise require:
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way
of:
(i) a vessel not under command;
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre;
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing;
(iv) a sailing vessel.
(b) A sailing vessel shall keep out of the way of:
(i) a vessel not under command;
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre;
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, so far as
possible, keep out of the way:
(i) a vessel not under command;
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.
(d) (i) Any vessel other than a vessel not under command to a
vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, avoid impeding the safe passage
of a vessel constrained by her draught, exhibiting the signals in
Rule 28.
(ii) A vessel constrained by her draught shall navigate with
particular caution having full regard to her special
condition.
(e) A seaplane on the water shall, in general, keep well clear of
all vessels and avoid impeding their navigation. In
circumstances, however, where risk of collision exists, she shall
comply with the Rules of this Part.
(f) (i) A WIG craft shall, when
taking off, landing and in flight near the surface, keep well
clear of all other vessels and avoid impeding their
navigation;
(ii) a WIG craft operating on the water surface shall comply with
the
Rules of this Part as a power-driven vessel.
SECTION III -
CONDUCT
OF VESSELS IN RESTRICTED
VISIBILITY
Rule 19
Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility
(a) This Rule applies to vessels
not in sight of one another when navigating in or near an area of
restricted visibility.
(b) Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the
prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility.
A power-driven vessel shall have her engines ready for immediate
manoeuvre.
(c) Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility when
complying with the Rules of Section I of this Part.
(d) A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another
vessel shall determine if a close-quarters situation is
developing and/or risk of collision exists. If so, she shall take
avoiding action in ample time, provided that when such action
consists of an alteration of course, so far as possible the
following shall be avoided:
(i) an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the
beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken;
(ii) an alteration of course towards a vessel abeam or abaft the
beam.
(e) Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision
does not exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of
her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid
a close-quarters situation with another vessel forward of her
beam, shall reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be
kept on her course. She shall if necessary take all her way off
and in any event navigate with extreme caution until danger of
collision is over.
PART C
LIGHTS AND SHAPES
Rule 20
Application
(a) Rules in this Part shall be
complied with in all weathers.
(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with from
sunset to sunrise, and during such times no other lights shall be
exhibited, except such lights as cannot be mistaken for the
lights specified in these Rules or do not impair their visibility
or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a
proper look-out.
(c) The lights prescribed by these Rules shall, if carried, also
be exhibited from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and
may be exhibited in all other circumstances when it is deemed
necessary.
(d) The Rules concerning shapes shall be complied with by
day.
(e) The lights and shapes specified in these Rules shall comply
with the provisions of Annex I to these Regulations.
Rule 21
Definitions
(a) "Masthead light" means a white
light placed over the fore and aft centreline of the vessel
showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 225
degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to
22.5 degrees abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
(b) "Sidelights" means a green light on the starboard side and a
red light on the port side each showing an unbroken light over an
arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the
light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its
respective side. In a vessel of less than 20 metres in length the
sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore and
aft centreline of the vessel.
(c) "Stern light" means a white light placed as nearly as
practicable at the stern showing an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 135 degrees and so fixed as to show the light 67.5
degrees from right aft on each side of the vessel.
(d) "Towing light" means a yellow light having the same
characteristics as the "stern light" defined in paragraph (c) of
this Rule.
(e) "All round light" means a light showing an unbroken light
over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees.
(f ) "Flashing light" means a light flashing at regular intervals
at a frequency of 120 flashes or more per minute.
Rule 22
Visibility of lights
The lights prescribed in these
Rules shall have an intensity as specified in Section 8 of Annex
I to these Regulations so as to be visible at the following
minimum ranges:
(a) In vessels of 50 metres or more in length:
- a masthead light, 6 miles;
- a sidelight, 3 miles;
- a sternlight, 3 miles;
- a towing light, 3 miles;
- a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 3 miles.
(b) In vessels of 12 metres or more in length but less than 50
metres in length:
- a masthead light, 5 miles; except that where the length of the
vessel is less than 20 metres, 3 miles;
- a sidelight, 2 miles;
- a sternlight, 2 miles;
- a towing light, 2 miles;
- a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 2 miles.
(c) In vessels of less than 12 metres in length:
- a masthead light, 2 miles;
- a sidelight, 1 mile;
- a sternlight, 2 miles;
- a towing light, 2 miles;
- a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 2 miles.
(d) In inconspicuous, partly submerged vessels or objects being
towed;
- a white all- round light, 3 miles.
Rule 23
Power-driven vessels underway
(a) A power-driven vessel underway
shall exhibit:
(i) a masthead light forward;
(ii) a second masthead light abaft of and higher than the forward
one; except that a vessel of less than 50 metres in length shall
not be obliged to exhibit such light but may do so;
(iii) sidelights;
(iv) a sternlight.
(b) An air-cushion vessel when operating in the non-displacement
mode shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph (a)
of this Rule, exhibit an all-round flashing yellow light.
(c) A WIG craft only when taking off, landing and in flight near
the surface shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit a high intensity all-round
flashing red light.
(d) (i) A power-driven vessel of less than 7 metres in length may
in lieu of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule
exhibit an all-round white light and sidelights;
(ii) A power-driven vessel of less than 7 metres in length whose
maximum speed does not exceed 7 knots may in lieu of the lights
prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule exhibit an all-round
white light and shall, if practicable, also exhibit
sidelights;
(iii) the masthead light or all-round white light on a
power-driven vessel of less than 12 metres in length may be
displaced from the fore and aft centreline of the vessel if
centreline fittings is not practicable, provided that the
sidelights are combined in one lantern which shall be carried on
the fore and aft centreline of the vessel or located as nearly as
practicable in the same fore and aft line as the masthead light
or the all-round white light.
Rule 24
Towing and pushing
(a) A power-driven vessel when
towing shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or (a) (ii),
two masthead lights in a vertical line. When the length of the
tow, measuring from the stern of the towing vessel to the after
end of the tow exceeds 200 metres, three such lights in a
vertical line;
(ii) sidelights;
(iii) a sternlight;
(iv) a towing light in a vertical line above the
sternlight;
(v) when the length of the tow exceeds 200 metres, a diamond
shape where it can best be seen.
(b) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are
rigidly connected in a composite unit they shall be regarded as a
power-driven vessel and exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule
23.
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing or towing alongside,
except in the case of a composite unit, shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or (a) (ii),
two masthead lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights;
(iii) a sternlight.
(d) A power-driven vessel to which paragraphs (a) or (c) of this
Rule applies shall also comply with Rule 23(a)(ii).
(e) A vessel or object being towed, other than those mentioned in
paragraph (g) of this Rule, shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights;
(ii) a sternlight;
(iii) when the length of the tow exceeds 200 metres, a diamond
shape where it can best be seen.
(f) Provided that any number of vessels being towed alongside or
pushed in a group shall be lighted as one vessel,
(i) a vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite
unit, shall exhibit at the forward end, sidelights;
(ii) a vessel being towed alongside shall exhibit a sternlight
and at the forward end, sidelights.
(g) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vesselll of object, or
combination of such vessels or objects being towed, shall
exhibit:
(i) if it is less than 25 metres in breadth, one all-round white
light at or near the forward end and one at or near the after end
except that dracones need not exhibit a light at or near the
forward end;
(ii) if it is 25 metres or more in breadth, two additional
all-round white lights at or near the extremities of its
breadth;
(iii) if it exceeds 100 metres in length, additional all-round
white lights between the lights prescribed in sub-paragraphs (i)
and (ii) so that the distance between the lights shall not exceed
100 metres;
(iv) a diamond shape at or near the aftermost extremity of the
last vessel or object being towed and if the length of the tow
exceeds 200 metres an additional diamond shape where it can best
be seen and located as far forward as is practicable.
(h) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a
vessel or object being towed to exhibit the lights prescribed in
paragraph (e) or (g) of this Rule, all possible measures shall be
taken to light the vessel or object towed or at least to indicate
the presence of such vessel or object.
(i) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a
vessel not normally engaged in towing operations to display the
lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule, such
vessel shall not be required to exhibit those lights when engaged
in towing another vessel in distress or otherwise in need of
assistance. All possible measures shall be taken to indicate the
nature of the relationship between the towing vessel and the
vessel being towed as authorized by Rule 36, in particular by
illuminating the towline.
Rule 25
Sailing vessels underway
and vessels under oars
(a) A sailing vessel underway
shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights;
(ii) a sternlight.
(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 12 metres in length the
lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule may be combined
in one lantern carried at or near the top of the mast where it
can best be seen.
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in addition to the lights
prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit at or near the
top of the mast, where they can best be seen, two all-round
lights in a vertical line, the upper being red and the lower
green, but these lights shall not be exhibited in conjunction
with the combined lantern permitted by paragraph (b) of this
Rule.
(d) (i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 metres in length shall,
if practicable, exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or
(b) of this Rule, but if she does not, she shall have ready at
hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light
which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent
collision.
(ii) A vessel under oars may exhibit the lights prescribed in
this Rule for sailing vessels, but if she does not, she shall
have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a
white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to
prevent collision.
(e) A vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by
machinery shall exhibit forward where it can best be seen a
conical shape, apex downwards.
Rule 26
Fishing vessels
(a) A vessel engaged in fishing, whether underway or at anchor, shall exhibit only the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(b) A vessel when engaged in
trawling, by which is meant the dragging through the water of a
dredge net or other apparatus used as a fishing appliance, shall
exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being
green and the lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones
with their apexes together in a vertical line one above the
other;
(ii) a masthead light abaft of and
higher than the all-round green light; a vessel of less than 50
metres in length shall not be obliged to exhibit such a light but
may do so;
(iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a
sternlight.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing, other than trawling, shall
exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red
and the lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with
apexes together in a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) when there is outlying gear extending more than 150 metres
horizontally from the vessel, an all-round white light or a cone
apex upwards in the direction of the gear;
(iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a
sternlight.
(d) The additional signals described in Annex II to these
regulations apply to a vessel engaged in fishing in close
proximity to other vessels engaged in fishing.
(e) A vessel when not engaged in fishing shall not exhibit the
lights or shapes prescribed in this Rule, but only those
prescribed for a vessel of her length.
Rule 27
Vessels not under command or
restricted in their ability to manoeuvre
(a) A vessel not under command
shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line where they can
best be seen;
(ii) two balls or similar shapes in a vertical line where they
can best be seen;
(iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a
sternlight.
(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, except a
vessel engaged in minesweeping operations, shall exhibit:
(i) three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best
be seen. The highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and
the middle light shall be white;
(ii) three shapes in a vertical line where they can best be seen.
The highest and lowest of these shapes shall be balls and the
middle one a diamond;
(iii) when making way through the water, masthead light or
lights, sidelights and a sternlight, in addition to the lights
prescribed in sub-paragraph (i);
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes
prescribed in sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii), the light, lights or
shape prescribed in Rule 30.
(c) A power-driven vessel engaged in a towing operation such as
severely restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability
to deviate from their course shall, in addition to the lights or
shapes prescribed in rule 24(a), exhibit the lights or shapes
prescribed in sub-paragraphs (b) (i) and (ii) of this Rule.
(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations, when
restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, shall exhibit the lights
and shapes prescribed in sub-paragraphs (b) (i), (ii) and (iii)
of this Rule and shall in addition, when an obstruction exists,
exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights or two balls in a vertical line to
indicate the side on which the obstruction exists;
(ii) two all-round green lights or two diamonds in a vertical
line to indicate the side on which another vessel may pass;
(iii) when at anchor, the lights or shapes prescribed in this
paragraph instead of the lights or shape prescribed in Rule
30.
(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged in diving operations
makes it impracticable to exhibit the shapes prescribed in
paragraph (d) of this Rule, the following shall be
exhibited:
(i) three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best
be seen. The highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and
the middle light shall be white;
(ii) a rigid replica of the International Code flag "A" not less
than 1 metre in height. Measures shall be taken to ensure
all-round visibility.
(f) A vessel engaged in mine clearance operations shall in
addition to the lights prescribed for a power-driven vessel in
Rule 23, or the lights or shape prescribed for a vessel at anchor
in Rule 30, as appropriate, exhibit three all-round green lights
or three balls. One of these lights or shapes shall be exhibited
near the foremast head and one at each end of the fore yard.
These lights or shapes indicate that it is dangerous for another
vessel to approach within 1000 metres astern or 500 metres of the
mine clearance vessel.
(g) Vessels of less than 12 metres in length, except those
engaged in diving operations, shall not be required to exhibit
the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(h) The signals prescribed in this Rule are not signals of
vessels in distress and requiring assistance. Such signals are
contained in Annex IV to these Regulations.
Rule 28
Vessels constrained by their draught
A vessel constrained by her draught may, in addition to the lights prescribed for power-driven vessels in Rule 23, exhibit where they can best be seen three all-round red lights in a vertical line, or a cylinder.
Rule 29
Pilot vessels
(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage
duty shall exhibit:
(i) at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical
line, the upper being white and the lower red;
(ii) when underway, in addition, sidelights and a
sternlight;
(iii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in
sub-paragraph (i), the light, lights or shape prescribed in Rule
30 for vessels at anchor.
(b) A pilot vessel when not engaged on pilotage duty shall
exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed for a similar vessel of
her length.
Rule 30
Anchored vessels and vessels aground
(a) A vessel shall exhibit where
it can best be seen:
(i) in the fore part, an all-round white light or one ball;
(ii) at or near the stern and at a lower level than the light
prescribed in sub-paragraph (i), an all-round white light.
(b) A vessel of less than 50 metres in length may exhibit an
all-round white light where it can best be seen instead of the
lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule.
(c) A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 metres and more
in length, shall also use the available working or equivalent
lights to illuminate her decks.
(d) A vessel aground shall exhibit the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) or (b) of this Rule and in addition, where they can
best be seen:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line;
(ii) three balls in a vertical line.
(e) A vessel of less than 7 metres
in length, when at anchor or aground, not in or near a narrow
channel, fairway or anchorage, or where other vessels normally
navigate, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes
prescribed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule.
(f) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length, when aground,
shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed
in sub-paragraph (d)(i) and (ii) of this Rule.
Rule 31
Seaplanes
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane or a WIG craft to exhibit lights and shapes of the characteristics or in the positions prescribed in the Rules of this Part she shall exhibit lights and shapes as closely similar in characteristics and position as is possible.
PART D
SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS
Rule 32
Definitions
(a) The word "whistle" means any
sound signalling appliance capable of producing the prescribed
blasts and which complies with the specifications in Annex III to
these Regulations.
(b) The term "short blast" means a blast of about one second's
duration.
(c) The term "prolonged blast" means a blast of from four to six
seconds' duration.
Rule 33
Equipment for sound signals
(a) A vessel of 12 metres or more
in length shall be provided with a whistle, a vessel of 20 metres
or more in length shall be provided with a bell in addition to a
whistle, and a vessel of 100 metres or more in length shall, in
addition, be provided with a gong, the tone and sound of which
cannot be confused with that of the bell. The whistle, bell and
gong shall comply with the specification in Annex III to these
Regulations. The bell or gong or both may be replaced by other
equipment having the same respective sound characteristics,
provided that manual sounding of the required signals shall
always be possible.
(b) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length shall not be
obliged to carry the sound signalling appliances prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule but if she does not, she shall be
provided with some other means of making an efficient sound
signal.
Rule 34
Manoeuvring and warning signals
(a) When vessels are in sight of
one another, a power-driven vessel underway, when manoeuvring as
authorized or required by these Rules, shall indicate that
manoeuvre by the following signals on her whistle:
- one short blast to mean "I am altering my course to
starboard";
- two short blasts to mean "I am altering my course to
port";
- three short blasts to mean "I am operating astern
propulsion".
(b) Any vessel may supplement the whistle signals prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule by light signals, repeated as
appropriate, whilst the manoeuvre is being carried out:
(i) these light signals shall have the following
significance:
- one flash to mean "I am altering my course to starboard";
- two flashes to mean "I am altering my course to port";
- three flashes to mean "I am operating astern propulsion";
(ii) the duration of each flash shall be about one second, the
interval between flashes shall be about one second, and the
interval between successive signals shall be not less than ten
seconds;
(iii) the light used for this signal shall, if fitted, be an
all-round white light, visible at a minimum range of 5 miles, and
shall comply with the provisions of Annex I to these
Regulations.
(c) When in sight of one another in a narrow channel or
fairway:
(i) a vessel intending to overtake another shall in compliance
with Rule 9(e)(i) indicate her intention by the following signals
on her whistle:
- two prolonged blasts followed by one short blast to mean "I
intend to overtake you on your starboard side";
- two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts to mean "I
intend to overtake you on your port side".
(ii) the vessel about to be overtaken when acting in accordance
with Rule 9(e)(i) shall indicate her agreement by the following
signal on her whistle:
- one prolonged, one short, one prolonged and one short blast, in
that order.
(d) When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each
other and from any cause either vessel fails to understand the
intentions or actions of the other, or is in doubt whether
sufficient action is being taken by the other to avoid collision,
the vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt by
giving at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle. Such
signal may be supplemented by a light signal of at least five
short and rapid flashes.
(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway
where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction
shall sound one prolonged blast. Such signal shall be answered
with a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel that may be
within hearing around the bend or behind the intervening
obstruction.
(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at a distance apart of
more than 100 metres, one whistle only shall be used for giving
manoeuvring and warning signals.
Rule 35
Sound signals in restricted visibility
In or near an area of restricted
visibility, whether by day or night, the signals prescribed in
this Rule shall be used as follows:
(a) A power-driven vessel making way through the water shall
sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes one prolonged
blast.
(b) A power-driven vessel underway but stopped and making no way
through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2
minutes two prolonged blasts in succession with an interval of
about 2 seconds between them.
(c) A vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her
ability to manoeuvre, a vessel constrained by her draught, a
sailing vessel, a vessel engaged in fishing and a vessel engaged
in towing or pushing another vessel shall, instead of the signals
prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule, sound at
intervals of not more than 2 minutes three blasts in succession,
namely one prolonged followed by two short blasts.
(d) A vessel engaged in fishing, when at anchor, and a vessel
restricted in her ability to manoeuvre when carring out her work
at anchor, shal instead of the signals prescribed in paragraph
(g) of tis Rule sound the signal prescribed in paragraph (c) of
this Rule.
(e) A vessel towed or if more than
one vessel is towed the last vessel of the tow, if manned, shall
at intervals of not more than 2 minutes sound four blasts in
succession, namely one prolonged followed by three short blasts.
When practicable, this signal shall be made immediately after the
signal made by the towing vessel.
(f) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are
rigidly connected in a composite unit they shall be regarded as a
power-driven vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in
paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule.
(g) A vessel at anchor shall at intervals of not more than one
minute ring the bell rapidly for about 5 seconds. In a vessel of
100 metres or more in length the bell shall be sounded in the
forepart of the vessel and immediately after the ringing of the
bell the gong shall be sounded rapidly for about 5 seconds in the
after part of the vessel. A vessel at anchor may in addition
sound three blasts in succession, namely one short, one prolonged
and one short blast, to give warning of her position and of the
possibility of collision to an approaching vessel.
(h) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and if required
the gong signal prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule and
shall, in addition, give three separate and distinct strokes on
the bell immediately before and after the rapid ringing of the
bell. A vessel aground may in addition sound an appropriate
whistle signal.
(i) A vessel of 12 metres or more
but less than 20 metres in length shall not be obliged to give
the bell signals prescribed in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this
Rule. However, if she does not, she shall make some other
efficient sound signal at intervals of not more than 2
minutes.
(j) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length shall not be
obliged to give the above-mentioned signals but, if she does not,
shall make some other efficient sound signal at intervals of not
more than 2 minutes.
(k) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may in addition
to the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) and (g) of this
Rule sound an identity signal consisting of four short
blasts.
Rule 36
Signals to attract attention
If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel any vessel may make light or sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere in these Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the direction of the danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel. Any light to atrract the attention of another vessel shall be such that it cannot be mistaken for any aid to navigation. For the purpose of this Rule the use of high intensity intermitten or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall be avoided.
Rule 37
Distress signals
When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit the signals prescribed in Annex IV to these Regulations.
PART E
EXEMPTIONS
Rule 38
Exemptions
Any vessel (or class of vessels)
provided that she complies with the requirements of the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1960,
the keel of which is laid or which is at a corresponding stage of
construction before the entry into force of these Regulations may
be exempted from compliance therewith as follows:
(a) The installation of lights with ranges prescribed in Rule 22,
until four years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.
(b) The installation of lights with colour specifications as
prescribed in Section 7 of Annex I to these Regulations, until
four years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.
(c) The repositioning of lights as a result of conversion from
Imperial to metric units and rounding off measurement figures,
permanent exemption.
(d) (i) The repositioning of masthead lights on vessels of less
than 150 metres in length, resulting from the prescriptions of
Section 3(a) of Annex I to these Regulations, permanent
exemption.
(ii) The repositioning of masthead lights on vessels of 150
metres or more in length, resulting from the prescriptions of
Section 3(a) of Annex I to these Regulations, until nine years
after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.
(e) The repositioning of masthead lights resulting from the
prescriptions of Section 2(b) of Annex I to these Regulations,
until nine years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.
(f) The repositioning of sidelights resulting from the
prescriptions of Section 2(g) and 3(b) of Annex I to these
Regulations, until nine years after the date of entry into force
of these Regulations.
(g) The requirements for sound signal appliances prescribed in
Annex III to these Regulations, until nine years after the date
of entry into force of these Regulations.
(h) The repositioning of all-round lights resulting from the
prescription of section 9(b) of Annex I to these Regulations,
permanent exemption.
ANNEX I
POSITIONING AND
TECHNICAL
DETAILS OF LIGHTS AND SHAPES
1. Definition
The term "height above the hull" means height above the uppermost continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the position vertically beneath the location of the light.
2. Vertical positioning and spacing of lights
(a) On a power-driven vessel of 20
metres or more in length the masthead lights shall be placed as
follows:
(i) the forward masthead light, or if only one masthead light is
carried, then that light, at a height above the hull of not less
than 6 metres, and, if the breadth of the vessel exceeds 6
metres, then at a height above the hull not less than such
breadth, so however that the light need not be placed at a
greater height above the hull than 12 metres;
(ii) when two masthead lights are carried the after one shall be
at least 4.5 metres vertically higher than the forward one.
(b) The vertical separation of masthead lights of power-driven
vessels shall be such that in all normal conditions of trim the
after light will be seen over and separate from the forward light
at a distance of 1000 metres from the stem when viewed from sea
level.
(c) The masthead light of a power-driven vessel of 12 metres but
less than 20 metres in length shall be placed at a height above
the gunwale of not less than 2.5 metres.
(d) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 metres in length may
carry the uppermost light at a height of less than 2.5 metres
above the gunwale. When however a masthead light is carried in
addition to sidelights and a sternlight, or the all-round light
prescribed in Rule 23(c)(i) is carried in addition to sidelights,
then such masthead light or all-round light shall be carried at
least 1 metre higher than the sidelights.
(e) One of the two or three masthead lights prescribed for a
power-driven vessel when engaged in towing or pushing another
vessel shall be placed in the same position as either the forward
masthead light or the after masthead light; provided that, if
carried on the aftermast, the lowest after masthead light shall
be at least 4,5 metres vertically higher than the forward
masthead light.
(f) (i) The masthead light or lights prescribed in Rule 23(a)
shall be so placed as to be above and clear of all other lights
and obstructions except as described in sub-paragraph (ii).
(ii) When it is impracticable to carry the all-round lights
prescribed by Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 below the masthead lights,
they may be carried above the after masthead light(s) or
vertically in between the forward masthead light(s) and after
masthead light(s), provided that in the latter case the
requirement of Section 3(c) of this Annex shall be complied
with.
(g) The sidelights of a power-driven vessel shall be placed at a
height above the hull not greater than three quarters of that of
the forward masthead light. They shall not be so low as to be
interfered with by deck lights.
(h) The sidelights, if in a combined lantern and carried on a
power-driven vessel of less than 20 metres in length, shall be
placed not less than 1 metre below the masthead light.
(i) When the Rules prescribe two or three lights to be carried in
a vertical line, they shall be spaced as follows:
(i) on a vessel of 20 metres in length or more such lights shall
be spaced not less than 2 metres apart, and the lowest of these
lights shall, except where a towing light is required, not be
less than 4 metres above the hull;
(ii) on a vessel of less than 20 metres in length such lights
shall be spaced not less than 1 metre apart and the lowest of
these lights shall, except where a towing light is required, not
be less than 2 metres above the gunwale;
(iii) when three lights are carried they shall be equally
spaced.
(j) The lower of the two all-round lights prescribed for a
fishing vessel when engaged in fishing shall be at a height above
the sidelights not less than twice the distance between the two
vertical lights.
(k) The forward anchor light, prescribed in Rule 30(a)(i), when
two are carried, shall not be less than 4.5 metres above the
after one. On a vessel of 50 metres or more in length this
forward anchor light shall not be less than 6 metres above the
hull.
3. Horizontal positioning and spacing of lights
(a) When two masthead lights are
prescribed for a power-driven vessel, the horizontal distance
between them shall not be less than one half of the length of the
vessel but need not be more than 100 metres. The forward light
shall be placed not more than one quarter of the length of the
vessel from the stem.
(b) On a power-driven vessel of 20 metres or more in length the
sidelights shall not be placed in front of the forward masthead
lights. They shall be placed at or near the side of the
vessel.
(c) When the lights prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 are
placed vertically between the forward masthead light(s) and the
after masthead light(s) these all-round lights shall be placed at
a horizontal distance of not less than 2 metres from the fore and
aft centreline of the vessel in the athwartship direction.
(d) When only one masthead light is prescribed for a power driven
vessel, this light shall be exhibited forward of amidships,
except that a vessel of less than 20 metres in length need not
exhibit this light forward of amidships, but shall exhibit it as
far forward as is practicable.
4. Details of
location
of direction-indicating lights for fishing vessels, dredgers and
vessels engaged in underwater operations
(a) The light indicating the
direction of the outlying gear from a vessel engaged in fishing
as prescribed in Rule 26(c)(ii) shall be placed at a horizontal
distance of not less than 2 metres and not more than 6 metres
away from the two all-round red and white lights. This light
shall be placed not higher than the all-round white light
prescribed in Rule 26(c)(i) and not lower than the
sidelights.
(b) The lights and shapes on a vessel engaged in dredging or
underwater operations to indicate the obstructed side and/or the
side on which it is safe to pass, as prescribed in Rule 27(d)(i)
and (ii), shall be placed at the maximum practical horizontal
distance, but in no case less than 2 metres, from the lights or
shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) and (ii). In no case shall the
upper of these lights or shapes be at a greater height than the
lower of the three lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i)
and (ii).
5. Screens for sidelights
The sidelights of vessels of 20 metres or more in length shall be fitted with inboard screens painted matt black, and meeting the requirements of Section 9 of this Annex. On vessels of less than 20 metres in length the sidelights, if necessary to meet requirements of Section 9 of this Annex, shall be fitted with inboard matt blck screens. With a combined lantern, using a single vertical filament and a very narrow division between the green and red sections, external screens need not be fitted.
6. Shapes
(a) Shapes shall be black and of
the following sizes:
(i) a ball shall have a diameter of not less than 0.6
metre;
(ii) a cone shall have a base diameter of not less than 0.6 metre
a height equal to its diameter;
(iii) a cylinder shall have a diameter of at least 0.6 metre and
a height of twice its diameter;
(iv) a diamond shape shall consist of two cones as defined in
(ii) above having a common base.
(b) The vertical distance between shapes shall be at least 1.5
metres.
(c) In a vessel of less than 20 metres, in length shapes of
lesser dimensions but commensurate with the size of the vessel
may be used and the distance apart may be correspondingly
reduced.
7. Colour specification of lights
The chromaticity of all navigation
lights shall conform to the following standards, which lie within
the boundaries of the area of the diagram specified for each
colour by the International Commission on Illumination
(CIE).
The boundaries of the area for each colour are given by
indicating the corner coordinates, which are as follows:
(i) White
|
x |
0.525 |
0.525 |
0.452 |
0.310 |
0.310 |
0.443 |
|
y |
0.382 |
0.440 |
0.440 |
0.348 |
0.283 |
0.382 |
(ii) Green
|
x |
0.028 |
0.009 |
0.300 |
0.203 |
|
y |
0.385 |
0.723 |
0.511 |
0.356 |
(iii) Red
|
x |
0.680 |
0.660 |
0.735 |
0.721 |
|
y |
0.320 |
0.320 |
0.265 |
0.259 |
(iv) Yellow
|
x |
0.612 |
0.618 |
0.575 |
0.575 |
|
y |
0.382 |
0.382 |
0.425 |
0.406 |
8. Intensity of lights
(a) The minimum luminous intensity
of lights shall be calculated by using the formula:
I = 3.43 x 106 x T x D2 x
K-D
where I is luminous intensity in candelas under service
conditions,
T is threshold factor 2 x 10-7 lux,
D is range of visibility (luminous range) of the light in
nautical miles,
K is atmospheric transmissivity.
For prescribed lights the value of K shall be 0.8, corresponding
to a meteorological visibility of approximately 13 nautical
miles.
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in the following table:
|
Range of visibility (luminous
range) of light in nautical miles |
Luminous intensity of light
in candelas for K=0.8 |
|
1 |
0,9 |
NOTE: The maximum luminous intensity of navigation lights should be limited to avoid undue glare. This shall not be achieved by a variable control of the luminous intensity.
9. Horizontal sectors
(a) (i) In the forward direction,
sidelights as fitted on the vessel must show the minimum required
intensities. The intensities shall decrease to reach practical
cut-off between 1 degree and 3 degrees outside the prescribed
sectors.
(ii) For sternlights and masthead lights and at 22.5 degrees
abaft the beam for sidelights, the minimum required intensities
shall be maintained over the arc of the horizon up to 5 degrees
within the limits of the sectors prescribed in Rule 21. From 5
degrees within the prescribed sectors the intensity may decrease
by 50 per cent up to the prescribed limits; it shall decrease
steadily to reach practical cut-off at not more than 5 degrees
outside the prescribed limits.
(b) (i) All-round lights shall be so located as not to be
obscured by masts, topmasts or structures within angular sectors
of more than 6 degrees, except anchor lights prescribed in Rule
30, which need not be placed at an impracticable height above the
hull.
(ii) If it is impracticable to comply with paragraph (b)(i) of this section by exhibiting only one all-round light, two all-round lights shall be used suitably positioned or screened so that they appear, as far as practicable, as one light at a distance of one mile.
10. Vertical sectors
(a) The vertical sectors of
electric lights as fitted, with the exception of lights on
sailing vessels underway shall ensure that:
(i) at least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all
angles from 5 degrees above to 5 degrees below the
horizontal;
(ii) at least 60 per cent of the required minimum intensity is
maintained from 7.5 degrees above to 7.5 degrees below the
horizontal.
(b) In the case of sailing vessels underway the vertical sectors
of electric lights as fitted shall ensure that:
(i) at least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all
angles from 5 degrees above to 5 degrees below the
horizontal;
(ii) at least 50 per cent of the required minimum intensity is
maintained from 25 degrees above to 25 degrees below the
horizontal.
(c) In the case of lights other than electric these
specifications shall be met as closely as possible.
11. Intensity of non-electric lights
Non-electric lights shall so far as practicable comply with the minimum intensities, as specified in the Table given in Section 8 of this Annex.
12. Manoeuvring light
Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 2(f) of this Annex the manoeuvring light described in Rule 34(b) shall be placed in the same fore and aft vertical plane as the masthead light or lights and, where practicable, at a minimum height of 2 metres vertically above the forward masthead light, provided that it shall be carried not less than 2 metres vertically above or below the after masthead light. On a vessel where only one masthead light is carried the manoeuvring light, if fitted, shall be carried where it can best be seen, not less than 2 metres vertically apart from the masthead light.
13. High speed craft**
(a) The masthead light of
high-speed craft may be placed at a height related to the breadth
of the craft lower than that prescribed in paragraph 2(a)(i) of
this annex, provided that the base angle of the isosceles
triangles formed by the sidelights and masthead light, when seen
in end elevation, is not less than 27°.
(b) On high-speed craft of 50 metres or more in length, the
vertical separation between foremast and mainmast light of 4.5
metres required by paragraph 2(a)(ii) of this annex may be
modified provided that such distance shall not be less than the
value determined by the following formula:
14. Approval
The construction of lights and shapes and the installation of lights on board the vessel shall be to the satisfaction of the appropriate authority of the State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly.
ANNEX II
ADDITIONAL
SIGNALS FOR FISHING
VESSELS FISHING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY
1. General
The lights mentioned herein shall, if exhibited in pursuance of Rule 26(d), be placed where they can best be seen. They shall be at least 0.9 metre apart but at a lower level than lights prescribed in Rule 26(b)(i) and (c)(i). The lights shall be visible all round the horizon at a distance of at least 1 mile but at a lesser distance than the lights prescribed by these Rules for fishing vessels.
2. Signals for trawlers
(a) Vessels of 20 metres or more
in length engaged in trawling, whether using demersal or pelagic
gear, may exhibit:
(i) when shooting their nets:
two white lights in a vertical line;
(ii) when hauling their nets:
one white light over one red light in a vertical line;
(iii) when the net has come fast
upon an obstruction:
two red lights in a vertical line.
(b) Each vessel of 20 metres or more in length engaged in pair
trawling may exhibit:
(i) by night, a searchlight directed forward and in the direction
of the other vessel of the pair;
(ii) when shooting or hauling their nets or when their nets have
come fast upon an obstruction, the lights prescribed in 2(a)
above.
(c) A vessels of less than 20 metres in length engaged in
trawling, whether using demersal or pelagic gear or engaged in
pair trawling, may exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraphs
(a) or (b) of this section, as appropriate.
3. Signals for purse seiners
Vessels engaged in fishing with purse seine gear may exhibit two yellow lights in a vertical line. These lights shall flash alternately every second and with equal light and occultation duration. These lights may be exhibited only when vessel is hampered by its fishing gear.
ANNEX III
TECHNICAL
DETAILS OF SOUND
SIGNAL APPLIANCES
1. Whistle
(a) Frequencies and range
of audibility
The fundamental frequency of the signal shall lie within the
range 70-700Hz. The range of audibility of the signal from a
whistle shall be determined by those frequencies, which may
include the fundamental and/or one or more higher frequencies,
which lie within the range 180-700Hz (+/-1%) for a vessel of 20
metres or more in length, or 180-2100Hz (+/-1%) for a vessel of
less than 20 metres in length and which provide the sound
pressure levels specified in paragraph 1(c) below.
(b) Limits of fundamental frequencies
To ensure a wide variety of whistle characteristics, the
fundamental frequency of a whistle shall be between the following
limits:
(i) 70-200 Hz, for a vessel 200 metres or more in length;
(ii) 130-350 Hz, for a vessel 75 metres but less than 200 metres
in length;
(iii) 250-700 Hz, for a vessel less than 75 metres in
length.
(c) Sound signal intensity and range of audibility
A whistle fitted in a vessel shall provide, in the direction of maximum intensity of the whistle and at a distance of 1 metre from it, a sound pressure level in at least one 1/3rd-octave band within the range of frequencies 180-700Hz (+/-1%) for a vessel of 20 metres or more in length, or 180-2100Hz (+/-1%) for a vessel of less than 20 metres in length, of not less than the appropriate figure given in the table below.
|
Length of vessel in metres |
1/3rd-octave band level at 1 m in dB referred to 2 x 10-5 N/m2 |
Audibility range in nautical miles |
|
200 or more |
143 |
2 |
|
75 but less than 200 |
138 |
1.5 |
|
20 but less than 75 |
130 |
1 |
|
Less than 20 |
120* |
0.5 |
|
115** |
||
|
111*** |
*When the measured frequencies lie within the range 180-450Hz
**When the measured
frequencies lie within the range 450-800Hz
*** When the measure frequencies lie within the range
800-2100Hz
The range of audibility in the table above is for information and
is approximately the range at which a whistle may be heard on its
forward axis with 90 per cent probability in conditions of still
air on board a vessel having average background noise level at
the listening posts (taken to be 68 dB in the octave band centred
on 250 Hz and 63 dB in the octave band centred on 500 Hz).
In practice the range at which a whistle may be heard is
extremely variable and depends critically on weather conditions;
the values given can be regarded as typical but under conditions
of strong wind or high ambient noise level at the listening post
the range may be much reduced.
(d) Directional properties
The sound pressure level
of a directional whistle shall be not more than 4 dB below
the sound pressure level on the axis at any direction in the
horizontal plane within +/-45 degrees of the axis. The sound
pressure level at any other direction in the horizontal plane
shall be not more than 10 dB below the sound pressure level on
the axis, so that the range in any direction will be at least
half the range on the forward axis. The sound pressure level
shall be measured in that 1/3rd-octave band which determines the
audibility range.
(e) Positioning of whistles
When a directional
whistle is to be used as the only whistle on a vessel, it shall
be installed with its maximum intensity directed straight
ahead.
A whistle shall be placed as high as practicable on a vessel, in
order to reduce interception of the emitted sound by obstructions
and also to minimize hearing damage risk to personnel. The sound
pressure level of the vessel's own signal at listening posts
shall not exceed 110 dB(A) and so far as practicable should not
exceed 100 dB(A).
(f) Fitting of more than one whistle
If whistles are fitted at a distance apart of more than 100
metres, it shall be so arranged that they are not sounded
simultaneously.
(g) Combined whistle systems
If due to the presence of obstructions the sound field of a single whistle or of one of the whistles referred to in paragraph 1(f) above is likely to have a zone of greatly reduced signal level, it is recommended that a combined whistle system be fitted so as to overcome this reduction. For the purposes of the Rules a combined whistle system is to be regarded as a single whistle. The whistles of a combined system shall be located at a distance apart of not more than 100 metres and arranged to be sounded simultaneously. The frequency of any one whistle shall differ from those of the others by at least 10 Hz.
2. Bell or gong
(a) Intensity of
signal
A bell or gong, or other device having similar sound
characteristics shall produce a sound pressure level of not less
than 110 dB at a distance of 1 metre from it.
(b) Construction
Bells and gongs shall be made of corrosion-resistant material and
designed to give a clear tone. The diameter of the mouth of the
bell shall be not less than 300 mm for vessels of 20 metres or
more in length. Where practicable, a power-driven bell striker is
recommended to ensure constant force but manual operation shall
be possible. The mass of the striker shall be not less than 3 per
cent of the mass of the bell.
3. Approval
The construction of sound signal appliances, their performance and their installation on board the vessel shall be to the satisfaction of the appropriate authority of the State whose flag the vessel is etitled to fly.
ANNEX IV
DISTRESS SIGNALS
1. The following signals, used or
exhibited either together or separately, indicate distress and
need of assistance:
(a) a gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about a
minute;
(b) a continuous sounding with any fog-signalling
apparatus;
(c) rockets or shells, throwing red stars fired one at a time at
short intervals;
(d) a signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other signalling
method consisting of the group … - - - . . . (SOS) in the Morse
Code;
(e) a signal sent by radiotelephony consisting of the spoken word
"Mayday";
(f) the International Code Signal of distress indicated by
N.C.;
(g) a signal consisting of a square flag having above or below it
a ball or anything resembling a ball;
(h) flames on the vessel (as from a burning tar barrel, oil
barrel, etc.)
(i) a rocket parachute flare or a hand flare showing a red
light;
(j) a smoke signal giving off orange-coloured smoke;
(k) slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms outstretched
to each side;
(l) the radiotelegraph alarm signal;
(m) the radiotelephone alarm signal;
(n) signals transmitted by emergency position-indicating radio
beacons;
(o) approved signals transmitted by radio communication systems,
including survival craft radar transponders.
2. The use or exhibition of any of the foregoing signals except
for the purpose of indicating distress and need of assistance and
the use of other signals which may be confused with any of the
above signals is prohibited.
3. Attention is drawn to the relevant sections of the
International Code of Signals, the Merchant Ship Search and
Rescue Manual and the following signals:
(a) a piece of orange-coloured canvas with either a black square
and circle or other appropriate symbol (for identification from
the air);
(b) a dye marker.
* NOTE: The name of the organization was changed to
"International Maritime organization" by virtue amendments to the
Organization's Convention which entered into force on 22 May
1982
** Refer to the International Code of Safety for
High-Speed Craft, 1994 and the International Code of Safety for
High-Speed Craft, 2000.
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