Western Australian Consolidated Regulations Western Australian Consolidated Regulations The person charged
with the responsibility to comply with these regulations in relation to a
vessel is the master, officer or person in charge of the navigation,
management or working of the vessel and the master, officer or person in
charge of the vessel shall not delegate that responsibility to an unqualified
person.
Rule 1 — Application
(a)
These Rules shall apply to all vessels upon the high seas and in all waters
connected therewith navigable by sea-going 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 sea-going
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 Organisation 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 1 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2295.]
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.
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 the
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 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 mine clearance 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 that a vessel is
not at anchor, or made fast to the shore, or aground.
(j) The
words “length” and “breadth” of a vessel means 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 WIG craft means a multimodal craft which, in its main operational mode,
flies in close operational proximity to the surface by utilising
surface-effect action.
[Rule 3 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2296.]
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.
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.
(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 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) 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 2 vessels
are approaching one another so as to involve risk of collision.
[Rule 8 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2296.]
(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 Organisation and
does not relieve any vessel of her obligations under any other of these Rules.
(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 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 traffic 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)
Despite subparagraph (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 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.
[Rule 10 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2296-7.]
Section II — Conduct of vessels in sight of one another
Rules in this Section apply to vessels in sight of
one another.
(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.
(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.
(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.
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 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 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
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 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.
(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 if it were a power-driven vessel.
[Rule 18 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2297.]
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 had 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.
(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 l to these regulations.
(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 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
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;
— 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, l
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 22 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2297.]
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 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 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 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 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 23 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2297-8.]
(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 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 applies
shall also comply with Rule 23(a)(ii).
(e) A
vessel or object being towed other than those referred to 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 vessel or object, or combination of such
vessels or objects being towed, shall exhibit:
(i)
where 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)
where 25 metres or more in breadth, two additional
all-round white lights at or near the extremities of its breadth;
(iii)
where it exceeds 100 metres in length, additional
all-round white lights between the lights prescribed in subparagraphs (i)
and (ii) of this paragraph 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 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 tow line.
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 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.
(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 26 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2298.]
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
subparagraph (i);
(iv)
when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes
prescribed in subparagraphs (i) and (ii), the light, or lights or shape
prescribed in Rule 30.
(c) A
power-driven vessel engaged in a towing operation which 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 subparagraphs (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
subparagraphs (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)
except where a vessel exhibits an International Code Flag
“A” (diving flag) pursuant to regulation 19C of the Navigable
Waters Regulations (WA), 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 mine clearance 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 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 27 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2298.]
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.
(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 forepart, an all-round white light or one ball;
(ii)
at or near the stern and at a lower level than the light
prescribed in subparagraph (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, 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 subparagraphs (d)(i) and
(ii) of this Rule.
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane or a WIG craft to exhibit the lights
and shapes of the characteristics or in the position prescribed in the Rules
of this Part she shall exhibit lights and shapes as closely similar in
characteristics and position as is possible.
[Rule 31 amended in Gazette
14 Oct 1983 p. 4163; 27 May 2005 p. 2298.]
Part D — Sound and light signals
[Heading amended in Gazette 14 Oct 1983 p. 4163.]
(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 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 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 33 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2298.]
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 not be 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 under way 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 two,
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 20 metres in length may give the
bell signals prescribed in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this Rule. If she
does not, she 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 35 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2298.]
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 attract 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 intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall
be avoided.
When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit
the signals described in Annex IV to these regulations.
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 coming into operation of these regulations may be
exempted from compliance therewith as follows:
(a) The
repositioning of lights as a result of conversion from imperial to metric
units and rounding off measurement figures, permanent exemption.
(b)
(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 9 years after
the date of coming into operation of these regulations.
(c) The
repositioning of masthead lights resulting from the prescriptions of
Section 2(b) of Annex I to these regulations until 9 years after the
date of coming into operation of these regulations.
(d) The
repositioning of sidelights resulting from the prescriptions of
Section 2(g) and 3(b) of Annex I to these regulations until 9 years
after the date of coming into operation of these regulations.
(e) The
requirements for sound signal appliances prescribed in Annex III to these
regulations, until 9 years after the date of the coming into operation of
these regulations.
(f) The
repositioning of all-round lights resulting from the prescription of
Section 9(b) of Annex I to these regulations, permanent exemption.
(g) The
installation of lights with ranges prescribed in Rule 22, until
4 years after the coming into operation of these regulations.
(h) The
installation of lights with colour specifications as prescribed in
section 7 of Annex I to these regulations, until 4 years after the
coming into operation of these regulations.
[Rule 38 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2299.]
Positioning and technical details of lights and shapes
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 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 not 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, and
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) 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 paragraph (fa) of this section.
(fa)
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 lights or vertically in between the forward
masthead lights and after masthead lights, and 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 the 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.
[Section 2 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2299.]
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 lights and the after masthead lights,
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.
(e) A
vessel of less than 20 metres in length need not exhibit the masthead light
referred to in paragraph (d) forward of amidships, but shall exhibit it
as forward as is practicable.
[Section 3 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2300.]
4. Location of direction-indicating lights
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).
(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).
[Item 4 amended in Gazette 14 Oct 1983
p. 4163.]
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 the requirements of Section 9 of this Annex, shall be
fitted with inboard matt black 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.
(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 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 co-ordinates, 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
(a) The
minimum luminous intensity of lights shall be calculated by using the formula:
I = 3.43 x 10 6 x T x
D 2 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 |
|---|---|
|
D |
I |
|
1 |
0.9 |
|
2 |
4.3 |
|
3 |
12 |
|
4 |
27 |
|
5 |
52 |
|
6 |
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.
[Section 8 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2300.]
(a)
(i) In the forward direction,
sidelights as fitted in the vessel shall 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 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 impractical
height above the hull.
(c) If
it is impracticable to comply with paragraph (b) by exhibiting only one
all-round light, 2 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.
[Section 9 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2300.]
(a) The
vertical sectors of electric lights as fitted, with the exception of lights on
sailing vessels 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 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.
Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs 2(f)
and 2(fa) 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.
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 the flag of
which the vessel is entitled to fly.
(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
27º.
(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:
where:
y is the height of the
mainmast light above the fore mast light in metres;
a is the height of the
foremast light above the water surface in service condition in metres;
ψ * is the trim
in service condition in degrees;
C is the horizontal
separation of masthead lights in metres.
* Refer to the International Code of Safety for
High-Speed Craft, 1994 or the International Code of Safety for High-Speed
Craft, 2000.
[Section 13A inserted in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2300-1.]
Additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in close proximity
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.
(a) Vessels of 20 metres or
more in length when engaged in trawling, whether using demersal or pelagic
gear, shall 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 20 metres or more in length engaged in pair trawling shall 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
vessel less than 20 metres in length engaged in trawling, whether using
demersal or pelagic gear or engaged in pair trawling shall exhibit the lights
prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b), as appropriate.
[Section 2 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2301.]
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 the vessel
is hampered by its fishing gear.
[Item 3 amended in Gazette 14 Oct 1983
p. 4163.]
Technical details of sound signal appliances
(a)
Frequencies and range of audibility —
The 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) for a
vessel of 20 metres or more in length, or 180-2100Hz (± 1 per cent) for a
vessel 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 180-700 Hz (± l per
cent) for a vessel less than 20 metres in length of not less than the
appropriate figure given in the table below.
1. When the measured frequencies lie within the
range 180-450Hz.
2. When the measured frequencies lie within the
range 450-800Hz.
3. When the measured 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
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 1/3rd-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.
[Section 1 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2301-2.]
(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.
[Section 2 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2302.]
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 the flag of which the
vessel is entitled to fly.
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.
[Section 1 amended in Gazette
27 May 2005 p. 2302.]
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.