Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
1 Name of RegulationsThese Regulations may be cited as the Navigation (Collision) Regulations 1983.2 CommencementThese Regulations shall take effect from 1 June 1983.2A InterpretationNotes in these Regulations are explanatory notes and do not form part of the Regulations.3 Effect of provisions of Schedule 1Except as provided by these Regulations, the provisions of Schedule 1, being the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, have effect as regulations under Division 4 of Part 7 of the Navigation Act 1901.4 Display of priority over sail signal(1) In this Regulation, priority over sail signal means a signal displaying an orange diamond shape.(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in Rule 18 of Schedule 1, a sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel displaying, where it can best be seen, a priority over sail signal.(3) A vessel shall not display a priority over sail signal without the written consent of the Minister.5 Operation of Rule 27 (g)Rule 27 (g) of Schedule 1 does not operate so as to exempt any vessel which is engaged in dredging operations or underwater operations from the requirements of Rule 27 in relation to the exhibition of lights and shapes.6 Diving operations(1) Notwithstanding Rule 27 of Schedule 1, a vessel engaged in diving operations shall exhibit the following:(a) from sunset to sunrise, and from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility, 3 all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen—the highest and the lowest of these lights shall be red and the middle light shall be white,(b) by day, International Code flag “A” or a rigid replica thereof.(2) A diver engaged in diving operations who is not operating from a vessel may exhibit a signal described in clause (1) (b) from a buoy or float.(3) The signals described in clause (1) (b) shall be of the following size:(a) where the flag or replica is required to be exhibited by a vessel, not less than 750 mm × 600 mm,(b) where the flag or replica is not required to be exhibited by a vessel, not less than 300 mm × 200 mm.(4) A vessel underway shall:(a) keep out of the way of a vessel or floating object exhibiting the flag or replica prescribed by clause (1) (b),(b) proceed at safe speed until clear of a vessel or floating object exhibiting any of the signals prescribed by this Regulation, and(c) while in the vicinity of a vessel or floating object exhibiting any of the signals prescribed by this Regulation, maintain a proper look-out for persons in the water.(5) Nothing in this Regulation affects the application of Rule 27 of Schedule 1 to and in respect of a vessel engaged in diving operations, except that a vessel which exhibits a flag or replica in accordance with this Regulation is not required by paragraph (e) (ii) of that Rule to exhibit also a replica in accordance with that provision.7 Pilot day signalA vessel engaged on pilotage duty when underway shall exhibit by day a flag of a size not less than 900 mm × 600 mm divided horizontally in 2 colours (the upper half being white and the lower half being red).8 Exemption from Rules 30 and 35(1) A vessel at anchor occupying any enclosed water:(a) under the authority of, and in accordance with the conditions (if any) attached to, an occupation licence issued by the Minister under the Management of Waters and Waterside Lands Regulations—N.S.W., orshall not be required to exhibit the lights and shapes prescribed by Rule 30 of Schedule 1 nor to make the sound signals prescribed by Rule 35 of Schedule 1.(b) by direction of, or with the permission of, the Crown or any person or body lawfully entitled to give such a direction or permission,(2) Clause (1) does not apply to:(a) a vessel secured to a shipping mooring within the meaning of the Management of Waters and Waterside Lands Regulations—N.S.W., or(b) a vessel belonging to an arm of the Defence Force of Australia or to the naval, military or air forces of a country other than Australia.(3) In this Regulation, enclosed water means any port or any inland navigable water in the State.9 Hydrofoil and catamaran ferries may exhibit certain lightsA hydrofoil ferry or high speed catamaran ferry may, with the written consent of the Minister, exhibit an all-round flashing yellow light (within the meaning of Rule 21 of Schedule 1) while it is operating as a ferry and not otherwise.10 Lighting exemptions in commuter craft zones(1) In this Regulation, commuter craft zone means a commuter craft zone named and described in Schedule 2.(2) A power-driven vessel less than 5 metres in length may exhibit sidelights and a sternlight instead of the lights prescribed by Rule 23 (a) and (c) of Schedule 1 when under way in a commuter craft zone.10A Short descriptions of offences(1) For the purposes of section 145B (2) of the Justices Act 1902, the prescribed expression for an offence under section 113 of the Navigation Act 1901, being an offence that arises under a provision of these Regulations specified in Column 1 of Schedule 3, is the expression set out opposite that provision in Column 2 of Schedule 3.(2) If a choice of words is indicated in Column 2 of Schedule 3, the words remaining after the omission of words irrelevant to the offence constitute the prescribed expression.(3) In this Regulation, a reference to a provision in Schedule 3 in relation to an offence is a reference to that provision as in force at the time the offence is alleged to have occurred.(4) The amendment or repeal of a prescribed expression does not affect the validity of any information, complaint, summons, warrant, notice, order or other document in which the expression is used and any such document continues to have effect as if that expression had not been amended or repealed.(5) Subclause (4) applies to any information, complaint, summons, warrant, notice, order or other document (whether issued, given or made before or after the amendment or repeal) that relates to an offence alleged to have been committed before the amendment or repeal.Note—The Management of Waters and Waterside Lands Regulations—N.S.W. (clause 121 and the Seventh Schedule) allows authorised officers to issue penalty notices for offences arising under the provisions of these Regulations specified in Schedule 3.11 Dissolution of Maritime Services Board—savings and transitionalAnything done by the Maritime Services Board under a provision of this Regulation before the dissolution of the Board by the Ports Corporatisation and Waterways Management Act 1995 that had any force or effect immediately before that dissolution is taken to have been done by the Minister.
Schedule 1 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
(Clause 3)
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, shapes or whistle signals for ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy, or with respect to additional station or signal lights or shapes for fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet. These additional station or signal lights, shapes or whistle signals shall, so far as possible, be such that they cannot be mistaken for any light, shape 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, 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 of 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
(a) The word vessel includes every description of water craft, including non-displacement 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 mineclearance 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 and width of navigable water is severely restricted in her ability to deviate from the course she is following.
(i) The word underway means a vessel that is not at anchor, or made fast to the shore, or aground.
(j) The words length and breadth 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.
Part B
Steering and sailing rules
Section I
Conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility
Rule 4
Application
Rule 5
Look-out
Rule 6
Safe speed
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 of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change,(ii) such risk 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 taken to avoid collision 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) If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that it 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 or safe 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 lines 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 on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of the traffic flow.
(d) Inshore traffic zones shall not normally be used by through traffic which can safely use the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separation scheme. However, vessels of less than 20 metres in length and sailing vessels may under all circumstances use inshore traffic zones.
(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 is 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 operation 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
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 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
Rule 16
Action by give-way vessel
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 subparagraph (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
(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 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.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, so far as possible, keep out of the way of:(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 or 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.
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) Sternlight 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 sternlight 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
(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 and 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)(i) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 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 of all-round white light on a power-driven vessel of less than 12 metres in length may be displayed from the fore and aft centreline of the vessel if centreline fitting 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 ahead 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 paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule apply 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) where 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 vessel or object, or combination of such vessels or objects being towed, shall exhibit:(i) if it 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 lights 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 or shapes prescribed in paragraph (e) or (g) of his 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 authorizd 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 20 metres in length the lights 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; a vessel of less than 20 metres in length may instead of this shape exhibit a basket,(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; a vessel of less than 20 metres in length may instead of this shape exhibit a basket,(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) A vessel engaged in fishing in close proximity to other vessels engaged in fishing may exhibit the additional signals described in Annex II to these Regulations.
(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 mine clearance 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, a 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-paragraph (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 all lights and 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 its all-round visibility.
(f) A vessel engaged in mineclearance operations shall in addition to the lights prescribed for a power-driven vessel in Rule 23 or to 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 1 000 metres of the mineclearance 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
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 subparagraph (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 at anchor 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 an anchor 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 shape 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-paragraphs (d) (i) and (ii) of this Rule.
Rule 31
Seaplanes
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 and a bell 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 specifications 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 prescribed 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 staboard’,— 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
(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 carrying out her work at anchor, shall instead of the signals prescribed in paragraph (g) of this 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 (g) 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 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.
(j) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may in addition to the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (g) of this Rule sound an identity signal consisting of four short blasts.
Rule 36
Signals to attract attention
Rule 37
Distress signals
Part E
Exemptions
Rule 38
Exemptions
(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
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 1 000 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 impractible 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, be placed at a height of not 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, be placed at a height of not 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 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 be placed at a height of not 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.
4
Details of location of direction-indicating lights for fishing vessels, dredges 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
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 and 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 metre.
(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 boundaries of the area for each colour are given by indicating the corner co-ordinates, which are as follows:
(i) White
(ii) Green
(iii) Red
(iv) Yellow
8
Intensity of lights
(a) The minimum luminous intensity of lights shall be calculated by using the formula:%20AND%20(No%3D0001)%20AND%20(Year%3D1987)%20AND%20(%22Historical%20Document%22%3D0))/g1.gif)
where I is luminous intensity in candelas under service conditions,T is threshold factor 2 × 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 formular is given in the following table:
1
2
3
4
5
60.9
4.3
12
27
52
94
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 shall show the minimum required intensities. The intensities must 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 sectors.
(b) 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.
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
12
Manoeuvring light
13
Approval
Annex II
Additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in close proximity
1
General
2
Signals for trawlers
(a) Vessels when 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 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.
3
Signal for purse seiners
Annex III
Technical details of sound signal appliances
1
Whistles
(a)Frequencies and range of audibilityThe fundamental frequency of the signal shall lie within the range 70–700 Hz.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 180–700 Hz (+ 1 per cent) and which provide the sound pressure levels specified in paragraph 1 (c) below.
(b)Limits of fundamental frequenciesTo 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 audibilityA 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 1/3-octave band within the range of frequencies 180–700 Hz (±1 per cent) of not less than the appropriate figure given in the table below:
(d)Directional propertiesThe sound pressure level of a directional whistle shall be not more than 4 dB below the prescribed 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 prescribed 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 1/3-octave band which determines the audibility range.
(e)Positioning of whistlesWhen 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 whistleIf 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 systemsIf 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 signalA 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)ConstructionBells 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, and shall be not less than 200 mm for vessels of 12 metres or more but of less than 20 metres 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
Annex IV
Distress signals
1
(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 NC,
(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) signal transmitted by emergency position-indicating radio beacons,
(o) approved signals transmitted by radiocommunication systems.
2
3
(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.
sch 1: Am 17.11.1989.
Schedule 2 Commuter craft zones
(Regulation 10)
Name of commuter craft zone | Description of commuter craft zone |
Hawkesbury River Area | The navigable waters of that part of Hawkesbury River and tributaries (including Mullet, Mooney Mooney, Mangrove and Berowra Creeks) upstream of a line between Green Point and Croppy Point to a line across the River from an unnamed point, approximately 1 kilometre south of the entrance to Breakfast Creek, (near Spencer) to Gentlemans Halt. |
Pittwater Area | The navigable waters of that part of Pittwater and tributaries lying south of a line extending from the western extremity of Observation Point northwesterly to an unnamed point at the northern extremity of Great Mackerel Beach. |
Woronora River Area | The navigable waters of that part of Woronora River and tributaries lying south of a line extending in an easterly direction from an unnamed point (approximately 250 metres northeast of the entrance to Still Creek) to the opposite shore of the River. |
Port Hacking Area | The navigable waters of that part of Port Hacking and Gunnamatta Bay commencing at the eastern extremity of Cabbage Tree Point thence by the shore of Bundeena Bay to the eastern extremity of Gunyah Beach thence by a line extending northwesterly across Port Hacking to the western extremity of Hungry Point thence by the shore of Gunnamatta Bay to the eastern extremity of Burraneer Point thence by a line extending southeasterly across Port Hacking to the point of commencement. |
sch 2: Ins 11.9.1992.
Schedule 3 Short descriptions of offences
(Clause 10A)
Column 1 | Column 2 |
Provision of these Regulations | Short description |
Schedule 1, Rule 23 (a) and (c) | Owner power-driven vsl underway without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 23 (a) and (c) | Master power-driven vsl underway without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 23 (b) | Owner air-cushion vsl operating without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 23 (b) | Master air-cushion vsl operating without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 24 (a) | Owner power-driven vsl towing without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 24 (a) | Master power-driven vsl towing without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 24 (c) | Owner power-driven vsl pushing/towing without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 24 (c) | Master power-driven vsl pushing/towing without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 25 (a) and (b) | Owner sailing vsl underway fail to exhibit required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 25 (a) and (b) | Master sailing vsl underway fail to exhibit required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (b) | Owner vsl engaged in trawling without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (b) | Master vsl engaged in trawling without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (c) | Owner vsl fishing (not trawling) without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (c) | Master vsl fishing (not trawling) without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (e) | Owner vsl not engaged in fishing exhibit fishing lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 26 (e) | Master vsl not engaged in fishing exhibit fishing lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (a) | Owner vsl not under command without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (a) | Master vsl not under command without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (b) | Owner vsl restricted manoeuvres without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (b) | Master vsl restricted manoeuvres without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (c) | Owner powered vsl restricted by tow without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (c) | Master powered vsl restricted by tow without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (d) | Owner vsl dredging/underwater operations without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (d) | Master vsl dredging/underwater operations without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (e) | Owner vsl engaged in diving without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 27 (e) | Master vsl engaged in diving without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 29 (a) | Owner vsl on pilotage duty without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 29 (a) | Master vsl on pilotage duty without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 30 (a) and (b) | Owner vsl at anchor without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 30 (a) and (b) | Master vsl at anchor without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 30 (d) | Owner vsl aground without required lights |
Schedule 1, Rule 30 (d) | Master vsl aground without required lights |
sch 3: Ins 2.8.1996.