rules Flashcards
rule 1 - Application
This rule states that the “rules of the road” apply to all vessels at sea and in waters directly connected to the sea, such as rivers and harbors.
Countries can establish their own regulations for waters within their territory, but these must be based on international rules.
Rule 2 - Responsibility
In this rule it is stipulated that good seamanship comes above all and that this is the most important factor to a safe navigation.
In some extra ordinary cases it can be necessary not to follow the rules but always act regarding good seamanship
Rule 3 - General Definitions
This rule provides definitions for terms used in the “rules of the road”:
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vessel
A craft used for transportation on water, including seaplanes when landing on water. It must be designed for waterborne transport, regardless of size.
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Power-driven vessel
A vessel propelled by machinery, such as an outboard or inboard engine.
sailling vessel
A vessel considered a sailing vessel only when the engine is not in operation. If the engine is running, even idling, it is considered a power-driven vessel.
Vessel engaged in fishing
A vessel whose fishing gear restricts its ability to maneuver
Seaplane
Any aircraft designed to maneuver on water.
vessel not under command
A vessel unable to maneuver and avoid collisions due to unavoidable circumstances, such as engine breakdown or steering failure.
Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver
A vessel unable to maneuver as required by the rules due to the nature of her work, such as dredging or laying buoys.
Vessel constrained by her draught
: A power-driven vessel restricted in her course due to her draught in relation to the available water depth and width.
Vessel underway
Vessel underway: A vessel that is not anchored, made fast to shore, or aground.
Length and breadth of a vessel
The maximum length and breadth of the vessel.
Vessels in sight of each other
When vessels can see each other visually (not by radar or AIS), even with binoculars.
Restricted visibility
When visibility is reduced due to fog, mist, snow, rain, sandstorms, or similar conditions.
Wing in Ground (WIG) craft
A craft that flies close to the water’s surface, moving just above sea level at high speed.
Rule 4 - Application
This rule states that the rules in Section I apply at all times, regardless of visibility conditions.
Rule 5 - Look-out
This rule stipulates that a good look-out is needed at all times, , not just visually, but also using instruments (e.g., RADAR) and auditory signals
Keeping a good look-out prevents the navigator from doing other tasks during his watch.
Rule 6 - Safe Speed
Safe speed dépends on circumstances like trafic density and visibility. Safe speed is essential for collision avoidance and is often a key factor in preventing accidents
For radar-equipped vessels, the experience of the radar operator is also crucial. .
Rule 7 - Risk of Collision
“Risk of Collision” occurs when two vessels are close enough that any departure from the rules could result in a collision. Key factors include:
Distance between vessels Speed of approach Crossing courses
All means, including RADAR, must be used to assess the risk. If a target’s bearing remains constant, it indicates a potential risk of collision.
Rule 8 - Action to Avoid Collision
Actions to avoid collision should be taken in time, big enough according to good seamanship.
A single, big maneuver is better than several small ones. Changing course is usually enough, but slowing down may be needed.
The maneuver must be noticeable to the other vessel, as a speed change alone may not be noticeable enough.
Rule 9 - Narrow Channels
In narrow channels, vessels should stay as close as possible to the starboard side. Vessels under 20 m, as well as sailing and fishing vessels, must not block the safe passage of others.
When crossing a fairway, do not obstruct other vessels. Overtaking in narrow channels has strict rules, including sound signals (not covered in this course).
Rule 10 - Traffic Separation Schemes
(TSS) regulates vessel traffic moving in different directions, using separation zones, lines, or lanes. It is often part of Vessel Traffic Services in ports or coastal areas.
Vessels using a TSS must follow the general direction of traffic in the correct lane and avoid the separation line or zone.