INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA, 1972

INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING

COLLISIONS AT SEA, 1972
PART A . GENERAL

Rule 1
Application
(a) These Rules shall apply to all vessels upon the high seas and in all waters
connected therewith navigable by seagoing vessels.

(b) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of special rules made
by an appropriate authority for roadsteads, harbours, rivers, lakes or inland
waterways connected with the high seas and navigable by seagoing vessels. Such
special rules shall conform as closely as possible to these Rules.

(c) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of any special rules
made by the Government of any State with respect to additional station or signal
lights or whistle signals for ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy, or
with respect to additional station or signal lights for fishing vessels engaged in
fishing as a fleet. These additional station or signal lights or whistle signals shall,
so far as possible, be such that they cannot be mistaken for any light or signal
authorized elsewhere under these Rules.

(d) Traffic separation schemes may be adopted by the Organization for the
purpose of these Rules.

(e) Whenever the Government concerned shall have determined that a vessel of
special construction or purpose cannot comply fully with the provisions of any of
these Rules with respect to the number, position, range or arc of visibility of lights
or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics of sound-signalling
appliances, without interfering with the special function of the vessel, such vessel
shall comply with such other provisions in regard to the number, position, range or
arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics
of sound-signalling appliances, as her Government shall have determined to be
the closest possible compliance with these Rules in respect to that vessel.

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Rule 2
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner, master or
crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to comply with these Rules or
of the neglect of any precaution which may be required by the ordinary practice of
seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case.

(b) In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be had to all
dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances, including
the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a departure from these
Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.

Rule 3
General definitions
For the purpose of these Rules, except where the context otherwise requires:

(a) The word "vessel" includes every description of water craft, including non-
displacement craft 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.

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(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 following vessels shall be regarded as vessels restricted in their ability to

manoeuvre:

(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a navigation mark,

submarine cable or pipeline;

(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or underwater operations;

(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, provisions or

cargo while underway;

(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching or recovery of aircraft;

(v) a vessel engaged in minesweeping operations;

(vi) a vessel engaged in a towing operation such as renders her unable to

deviate from her course.

(h) The term "vessel constrained by her draught" means a power-driven vessel
which because of her draught in relation to the available depth of water is severely
restricted in her ability to deviate from the course she is following.

(i) The word "underway" means that a vessel is not at anchor, or made fast to the
shore, or aground.

(j) The words "length" and "breath" of a vessel mean her length overall and
greatest breadth.

(k) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only when one can be
observed visually from the other.

(l) The term "restricted visibility" means any condition in which visibility is restricted

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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
Rules in this Section apply in any condition of visibility.

Rule 5
Look-out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as
well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and
conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of
collision.

Rule 6
Safe speed
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper
and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance
appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into
account:

(a) By all vessels:

(i) the state of visibility;

(ii) the traffic density including concentrations of fishing vessels or any other
vessels;

(iii) the manoeuvrability of the vessel with special reference to stopping

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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.

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(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 risks may sometimes exist even when an appreciable bearing change
is evident, particularly when approaching a very large vessel or a tow or when
approaching a vessel at close range.

Rule 8
Action to avoid collision
(a) Any action 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) lf there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the most
effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that is made in good
time, is substantial and does not result in another close-quarters situation.

(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be such as to result in
passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of the action shall be carefully
checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.

(e) If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess the situation, a
vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way off by stopping or reversing her
means of propulsion.

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Rule 9
Narrow channels
(a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway shall keep
as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies on her starboard side
as is safe and practicable.

(b) A vessel of less than 20 metres in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede
the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or
fairway.

(c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other vessel
navigating within a narrow channel or fairway.

(d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing impedes
the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within such channel or
fairway. The latter vessel may use the sound signal prescribed in Rule 34(d) if in
doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel.

(e) (i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking can take place only if the
vessel to be overtaken has to take action to permit safe passing, the vessel
intending to overtake shall indicate her intention by sounding the appropriate
signal prescribed in Rule 34(c)(i). The vessel to be overtaken shall, if in
agreement, sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(c)(ii) and take
steps to permit safe passing. If in doubt she may sound the signals prescribed
in Rule 34(d).

(ii) This Rule does not relieve the overtaking vessel of her obligation under Rule
13.

(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway where other
vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall navigate with
particular alertness and caution and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed
in Rule 34(e).

(g) Any vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid anchoring in a
narrow channel.

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Rule 10
Traffic separation schemes
(a) This Rule applies to traffic separation schemes adopted by the Organization.

(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 the side shall do so at as small an angle to the general
direction of traffic flow as practicable.

(c) A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid crossing traffic lanes, but if obliged
to do so shall cross as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction
of traffic flow.

(d) 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.

(e) A vessel, other than a crossing vessel, 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

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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.

SECTION II - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER

Rule 11
Application
Rules in this Section apply to vessels in sight of one another.

Rule 12
Sailing vessels
(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as to involve risk of
collision, one of them shall keep out of the way of the other as follows:

(i) when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the wind
on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other;

(ii) when both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward
shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward;

(iii) if a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to windward and
cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel has the wind on the
port 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.

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Rule 13
Overtaking
(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Rules of this Section any vessel
overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.

(b) A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with another

vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft her beam, that is, in such a
position with reference to the vessel she is overtaking, that at night she would be
able to see only the sternlight of that vessel but neither of her sidelights.

(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether she is overtaking another, she
shall assume that this is the case and act accordingly.

(d) Any subsequent alteration of the bearing between the two vessels shall not
make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel within the meaning of these Rules or
relieve her of the duty of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until she is finally
past and clear.

Rule 14
Head-on situation
(a) When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal
courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall alter her course to starboard so
that each shall pass on the port side of the other.

(b) Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other ahead
or nearly ahead and by night she could see the masthead lights of the other in a
line or nearly in a line and/or both sidelights and by day she observes the
corresponding aspect of the other vessel.

(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists she shall
assume that it does exist and act accordingly.

Rule 15
Crossing situation
When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the

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vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way
and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the
other vessel.

Rule 16
Action by give-way vessel
Every vessel which is directed by these Rules to keep out of the way of another
vessel shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.

Rule 17
Action by stand-on vessel
(a) (i) Where by any of these Rules one of two vessels is to keep out of the way
the other shall keep her course and speed.

(ii) The latter vessel may however take action to avoid collision by her
manoeuvre alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel
required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in compliance
with these Rules.

(b) When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course and speed finds
herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way
vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to avoid collision.

(c) A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing situation in accordance

with sub-paragraph (a)(ii) of this Rule to avoid collision with another power-driven
vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, not alter course to port for a
vessel on her own port side.

(d) This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of her obligation to keep out of
the way.

Rule 18
Responsibilities between vessels

Except where Rules 9, 10 and 13 otherwise require:

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(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:

(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.

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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

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Rule 20
Application
(a) Rules in this Part shall be complied with in all weathers.

(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to sunrise, and
during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot
be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules or do not impair their visibility or
distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out.

(c) The lights prescribed by these Rules shall, if carried, also be exhibited from
sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all other
circumstances when it is deemed necessary.

(d) The Rules concerning shapes shall be complied with by day.

(e) The lights and shapes specified in these Rules shall comply with the provisions
of Annex I to these Regulations.

Rule 21
Definitions
(a) "Masthead light" means a white light placed over the fore and aft centreline of
the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 225 degrees
and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam
on either side of the vessel.

(b) "Sidelights" means a green light on the starboard side and a red light on the
port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112.5
degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft
the beam on its respective side. In a vessel of less than 20 metres in length the
sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore and aft centreline of
the vessel.

(c) "Stern light" means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the stern
showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees and so fixed
as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the vessel.

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(d) "Towing light" means a yellow light having the same characteristics as the
"stern light" defined in paragraph (c) of this Rule.

(e) "All round light" means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the
horizon of 360 degrees.

(f ) "Flashing light" means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency of 120

flashes or more per minute.

Rule 22
Visibility of lights
The lights prescribed in these Rules shall have an intensity as specified in Section
8 of Annex I to these Regulations so as to be visible at the following minimum
ranges:

(a) In vessels of 50 metres or more in length:

- a masthead light, 6 miles;

- a sidelight, 3 miles;

- a sternlight, 3 miles;

- a towing light, 3 miles;

- a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 3 miles.

(b) In vessels of 12 metres or more in length but less than 50 metres in length:

- a masthead light, 5 miles; except that where the length of the vessel is less
than 20 metres, 3 miles;

- a sidelight, 2 miles;

- a sternlight, 2 miles;

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- 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.

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 power-driven vessel of less than 7 metres in length and whose maximum

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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. Such vessel shall, if practicable,
also exhibit sidelights.

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), two masthead lights forward
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), two masthead lights forward
in a vertical line;

(ii) sidelights;

(iii) a sternlight.

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(d) A power-driven vessel to which paragraphs (a) and (c) of this Rule apply shall
also comply with Rule 23(a)(ii).

(e) A vessel or object being towed 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 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) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel or object being
towed to exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (e) of this Rule, all possible
measures shall be taken to light the vessel or object towed or at least to indicate
the presence of the unlighted vessel or object.

Rule 25
Sailing vessels underway and vessels under oars
(a) A sailing vessel underway shall exhibit:

(i) sidelights;

(ii) a sternlight.

(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 12 metres in length the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule may be combined in one lantern carried at or near the

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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

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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 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.

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(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, except a vessel engaged in

minesweeping operations, shall exhibit:

(i) three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen. The
highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and the middle light shall be
white;

(ii) three shapes in a vertical line where they can best be seen. The highest and
lowest of these shapes shall be balls and the middle one a diamond;

(iii) when making way through the water, masthead 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 vessel engaged in a towing operation such as renders her unable to deviate
from her course shall, in addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in sub-
paragraph (b)(i) and (ii) of this Rule, exhibit the lights or shape prescribed in Rule
24(a).

(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations, when restricted in her

ability to manoeuvre, shall exhibit the lights and shapes prescribed in paragraph
(b) 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 making way through the water, in addition to the lights prescribed in
this paragraph, masthead lights, sidelights and a sternlight;

(iv) a vessel to which this paragraph applies when at anchor shall exhibit the
lights or shapes prescribed in sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii) instead of the lights

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or shape prescribed in Rule 30.

(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged in diving operations makes it

impracticable to exhibit the shapes prescribed in paragraph (d) of this Rule, a rigid
replica of the International Code flag "A" not less than 1 metre in height shall be
exhibited. Measures shall be taken to ensure all-round visibility.

(f) A vessel engaged in minesweeping operations shall, in addition to the lights

prescribed for a power-driven vessel in Rule 23, exhibit three all-round green
lights or three balls. One of these lights or shapes shall be exhibited at or 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 closer than 1,000
metres astern or 500 metres on either side of the minesweeper.

(g) Vessels of less than 7 metres in length shall not be required to exhibit the lights
prescribed in this Rule.

(h) The signals prescribed in this Rule are not signals of vessels in distress and
requiring assistance. Such signals are contained in Annex IV to these Regulations.

Rule 28
Vessels constrained by their draught
A vessel constrained by her draught may, in addition to the lights prescribed for
power-driven vessels in Rule 23, exhibit where they can best be seen three all-
round red lights in a vertical line, or a cylinder.

Rule 29
Pilot vessels
(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit:

(i) at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper
being white and the lower red;

(ii) when underway, in addition, sidelights and a sternlight;

(iii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in sub-paragraph (i),

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the anchor light, lights or shape.

(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 at anchor or aground, not in or
near a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage, or where other vessels normally
navigate, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in
paragraphs (a), (b) or (d) of this Rule.

Rule 31
Seaplanes

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Where it is impracticable for a seaplane to exhibit lights and shapes of the

characteristics or in the positions prescribed in the Rules of this Part she shall
exhibit lights and shapes as closely similar in characteristics and position as is
possible.

PART D. SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS

Rule 32
Definitions
(a) The word "whistle" means any sound signalling appliance capable of
producing the prescribed blasts and which complies with the specifications in
Annex III to these Regulations.

(b) The term "short blast" means a blast of about one second's duration.

(c) The term "prolonged blast" means a blast of from four to six seconds' duration.

Rule 33
Equipment for sound signals
(a) A vessel of 12 metres or more in length shall be provided with a whistle 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
required signals shall always be possible.

(b) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length shall not be obliged to carry the
sound signalling appliances prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule but if she
does not, she shall be provided with some other means of making an efficient
sound signal.

Rule 34
Manoeuvring and warning signals
(a) When vessels are in sight of one another, a power-driven vessel underway,

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when manoeuvring as authorized or required by these Rules, shall indicate that

manoeuvre by the following signals on her whistle:

- one short blast to mean "I am altering my course to starboard";

- two short blasts to mean "I am altering my course to port";

- three short blasts to mean "I am operating astern propulsion".

(b) Any vessel may supplement the whistle signals prescribed in paragraph (a) of
this Rule by light signals, repeated as appropriate, whilst the manoeuvre is being
carried out:

(i) these light signals shall have the following significance:

- one flash to mean "I am altering my course to starboard";

- two flashes to mean "I am altering my course to port";

- three flashes to mean "I am operating astern propulsion";

(ii) the duration of each flash shall be about one second, the interval between
flashes shall be about one second, and the interval between successive
signals shall be not less than ten seconds;

(iii) the light used for this signal shall, if fitted, be an all-round white light,
visible at a minimum range of 5 miles, and shall comply with the provisions of
Annex I.

(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";

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- two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts to mean "I intend to
overtake you on your port side".

(ii) the vessel about to be overtaken when acting in accordance with Rule
9(e)(i) shall indicate her agreement by the following signal on her whistle:

- one prolonged, one short, one prolonged and one short blast, in that
order.

(d) When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and from any
cause either vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of the other, or is
in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other to avoid collision, the
vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt by giving at least five short
and rapid blasts on the whistle. Such signal may be supplemented by a light
signal of at least five short and rapid flashes.

(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other vessels
may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound one prolonged blast.
Such signal shall be answered with a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel
that may be within hearing around the bend or behind the intervening obstruction.

(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at a distance apart of more than 100 metres,
one whistle only shall be used for giving manoeuvring and warning signals.

Rule 35
Sound signals in restricted visibility
In or near an area of restricted visibility, whether by day or night, the signals
prescribed in this Rule shall be used as follows:

(a) A power-driven vessel making way through the water shall sound at intervals of
not more than 2 minutes one prolonged blast.

(b) A power-driven vessel underway but stopped and making no way through the
water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes two prolonged blasts in
succession with an interval of about 2 seconds between them.

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(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 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.

(e) 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.

(f) 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.

(g) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and if required the gong signal
prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule and shall, in addition, give three separate
and distinct strokes on the bell immediately before and after the rapid ringing of
the bell. A vessel aground may in addition sound an appropriate whistle signal.

(h) 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.

(i) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may in addition to the signals

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prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (f) of this Rule sound an identity signal
consisting of four short blasts.

Rule 36
Signals to attract attention
If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel any vessel may make light or
sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere in
these Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the direction of the
danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel.

Rule 37
Distress signals
When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit the
signals prescribed in Annex IV to these Regulations.

PART E. EXEMPTIONS

Rule 38 Exemptions
Any vessel (or class of vessels) provided that she complies with the requirements
of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1960, the keel of
which is laid or which is at a corresponding stage of construction before the entry
into force of these Regulations may be exempted from compliance therewith as
follows:

(a) The installation of lights with ranges prescribed in Rule 22, until four years after
the date of entry into force of these Regulations.

(b) The installation of lights with colour specifications as prescribed in Section 7 of

Annex I to these Regulations, until four years after the date of entry into force of
these Regulations.

(c) The repositioning of lights as a result of conversion from Imperial to metric

units and rounding off measurement figures, permanent exemption.

(d) (i) The repositioning of masthead lights on vessels of less than 150 metres in

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length, resulting from the prescriptions of Section 3(a) of Annex I, 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, until nine years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.

(f) The repositioning of sidelights resulting from the prescriptions of Section 3(b)
of Annex I, until nine years after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.

(g) The requirements for sound signal appliances prescribed in Annex III, until nine
years after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.

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