MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT
(Department of Surface Transport)
(Shipping Wing)
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 29th August, 1986
G.S.R. 1053(E) – In
exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 285 of the
Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 (44 of 1958), the Central Government hereby
makes the following regulations further to amend the Merchant Shipping
(Prevention of Collisions at Sea) Regulations, 1975, namely
:-
1. (1)
These regulations may be called for Merchant
Shipping (Prevention of Collisions at Sea) Amendment Regulations, 1986.
(2) They shall come into force from the
date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
2. In the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Collisions
at Sea) Regulations, 1975, for the existing Schedule, the following
Schedule shall be substituted, namely :-
SCHEDULE
(See regulation 2)
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 sea-going
vessels.
(b) Noting 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) Noting 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 fleer. 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 of the
number, position, range or are 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 are of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the
disposition and characteristics of sound-signalling appliances, as per
government shall have determined to be the closest possible compliance
with these rules in respect to that vessel.
Rule 2
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel
or the owner, master or crew thereof, from the consequences of any
neglect to comply with these Rules or of the neglect of any precaution
which may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the
special circumstances of the case.
(b) In the 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 made 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" included 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
vessels 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 circumstances is unable to manoeuvre as required
by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of another
vessel.
(g) The term "vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre"
means a vessel which from the nature of her work is restricted in her
ability to manoeuvre as required by these Rules and is therefore unable
to keep out of the way of another vessel.
"The term "vessels restricted in their ability to
manoeuvre" shall include but not be limited to:-
(i)
a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a navigation mark,
submarine cable or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or under water
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 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 here ability to
deviate from the course she is following.
(i)
The word "underway" means that a vessel is not a anchor or made fast to
the shore, or a ground.
(j) The words "length" and "breadth" of a vessel means here
length overall and greatest breadth.
(k) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only
when one can be observed visually from the other.
(l) The term "restricted visibility" means any condition in
which visibility is restricted by fog, mist falling snow, heavy
rainstorms, sandstorms or any other similar causes.
PART B – STEERING AND SAILING RULES
Section I – Conduct of vessels in any conditions 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 preventing 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 vessel :
(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 here 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
constrants imposed by the radar range scale in use;
(iii)
the
effect on radar detection of the sea state, whether 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-rang scanning to
obtain early warning of risk of collision and radar plotting or
equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.
(c) Assumption shall not be made on the
basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision
exists the following considerations shall be among those taken into
account :
(i)
such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an
approaching vessel does not appreciably change ;
(ii) such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable
bearing change is evident particularly when approaching a very large
vessel or a tow or when approaching a vessel at close range.
Rule 8
Action to avoid collision
(a) Any action taken to avoid collision shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, be positive made in ample time and with
due regard to the observance of good seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course/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 along 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 here means of
propulsion.
Rule 9
Narrow channels
(a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow
channel of 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 with 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 takes 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©(i). The vessel to be overtaken shall, if in
agreement, sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34©(ii) and
taken steps to permit safe passing. If in doubt she may sound the
signals prescribed in Rule 34(d).
(ii) This Rule does not relived 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
interventing 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 separations schemes adopted by the Organisation.
(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 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) In-shore traffic zones shall not normally be used
by through traffic which can safely use the appropriate traffic lane
within the adjacent traffic separation scheme. However, vessels of less
than 20 metres in length and sailing vessels may under all circumstances
use inshore traffic zones.
(e) A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel
joining or leaving a lane shall not normally enter a separation zone or
cross a separation line except:
(i) in cases of emergency to avoid
immediate danger ;
(ii) to engage in fishing within a
separation zone ;
(f) A vessel navigating in areas near the
terminations of traffic separation schemes shall do so with particular
caution.
(g) A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid
anchoring in a traffic separation scheme or in areas near its
terminations.
(h) A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme
shall avoid it by as wide a margin as is practicable.
(i) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede or a
sailing vessel shall not impede the safe passage of a power-driven
vessel following a traffic lane.
(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
when engaged in an operation for the maintenance of safety of navigation
in a traffic separation scheme is exempted from complying with this Rule
to the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
(l) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
when engaged in an operation for the laying servicing or picking up of a
submarine cable, within a traffic separation scheme, is exempted from
complying with this rule to the extent necessary to carry out the
operation.
SECTION II – CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER
Rule 11
Application
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 wind ward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to
leeward ;
(iii) If a vessel with the wind on the port side seeds a vessels
to wind ward and cannot determine with certainly weather the other
vessel has the wind on the port or on the star-board side, she shall
keep out of the way of the other.
(b) For the purpose of the 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 square-rigged vessel, the side opposite to that on which the
largest fore-and-aft sail is carried.
Rule 13
Overtaking
(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Rules of Part B
Section I and II, any vessel over taking 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 above 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 vessels a crossing vessel
within the meaning of these Rules of 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 portside the other.
(b) Such a situation shall be deemed to
exist when a vessel sees the other ahead or nearly ahead and by night
she could see the masthead lights of the other in a line or nearly in a
line and/or both sidelights and by day she observes the corresponding
aspect of the other vessel.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation
exists she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.
Rule 15
Crossing situation
When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as
to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own
starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances
of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.
Rule 16
Action by give-way vessel
Every vessel which is directed by these Rules to
keep out of the way of another vessel shall so far as possible, take
early and substantial action to keep well clear.
Rule 17
Action by stand-on vessel
(a) (i) Whereby any of these Rules one of two
vessels is to keep out of the way the other shall keep here course and
speed.
(ii) The latter vessel may however taken
action to avoid collision by her manoeavre 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 kept
her course and speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be
avoided by the action of the give-way vessel along, she shall taken 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
Rules to avoid collision with another power-driven vessel shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, not after course to port for a vessel
on here own port side.
(d) This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of
here obligation to keep out of the way.
Rule 18
Responsibilities between vessels
Except where Rules, 9, 10, and 13 otherwise
required :
(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 under way shall keep out of the way of:
(i) a vessel not under
command ;
(ii) a
vessel restricted in here 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)
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 impending the safe passage of vessel constrained by here
draught, exhibiting the signals in Rule 28.
(ii) A vessel constrained by her draught shall navigate with
particular caution having full regard to here special condition.
(d) (i) Any vessel other than a vessel
not under command or a vessel restricted in here ability to manoeuvre
shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid impending the safe
passage of a vessel constrained by here draught, exhibiting the signals
in Rule 28.
(ii) A vessel constrained by her draught shall navigate with
particular caution having full regard to here special condition.
(e) A seaplane on the water
shall in general keep well clear of all vessels and avoid impeding their
navigation. In circumstances, however, where risk of collision exists
she shall comply with the rules of this Part.
SECTION III – CONDUCT OF VESELS 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 adopted to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven
vessel shall have here 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 1 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) n
alteration of course towards a vessel a beam or abaft the beam.
(e) Except where it has been determined that risk of collision does
not exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of here beam the
fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters
situation with another vessel forward of here beam, shall reduce here
speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on here course. She shall
if necessary take all here way off and in any event navigate with extreme
caution until danger of collision is over.
PART C – LIGHTS AND SHAPES
Rule 20
Application
(a) Rules in this Part shall be complied
within all weathers.
(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be
complied with from sunset to sunrise, and puring such times no other
lights shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot be mistaken for
the lights specified in these Rules or do no 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
Annexure 1 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 about 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
centerline of the vessel.
(c) "Sternlight" means a white light
placed as nearly as practicable at the stern showing an onboard side and
a red light on the port side each and so fixed as to show the light 67.5
degrees from right aft on each side of the vessel.
(d) "Towing light" means a yellow light
having the same characteristics as the "sternlight" defined in paragraph
(c) of this Rule.
(e) "All round light" means a light
showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360
degrees.
(f) "Flashing light" means a light
flashing at regular intervals at a frequency of 120 flashes or more per
minute.
Rule 22
Visibility of Lights
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 ;
(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 side light, 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 side light, 1 mile ;
___ a sternlight, 2 miles ;
___ a towing light, 2 miles ;
___ a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 2 miles.
(d) In inconspicuous, partly submerged
vessels or objects being towed :
___ a white all-round light, 3
miles".
Rule 23
Power-driven vessels underway
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall exhibit :
(i) a masthead light ;
(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)
Side
lights ;
(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 lights.
(c) (i) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 metres in
length may in lieu of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this
Rule exceed 7 knots may in lieu of the lights lights ;
(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 centerline of the vessel if centerline fitting is
not practicable, provided that the sidelights are combined in one
lantern which shall be carried on the fore and aft centerline of the
vessel or located as nearly as practicable in the same fore and aft line
as the masthead light or the all-round white light.
Rule 24
Towing and pushing
(a)
A power-driven vessel when towing shall exhibit :
(i)
instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or (a)(ii), two
masthead lights in a vertical line. When the length of the two
measuring from the stern of the towing vessel to the after end of the
two 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 two 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) side lights ;
(iii) a stern light.
(d) A power-driven vessel to which
paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule apply shall also comply with Rule
23(a)(ii).
(e) A vessel or object being towed, other,
than those mentioned in paragraph (g) of this Rule, shall exhibit :
(i) sidelight ;
(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) An inconspicuous, partly submerged
vessel or object, or combination of such vessels or objects being towed,
shall exhibit ;
(i)
if it is less than 25 metres in breadth, one all-round white light at or
near the forward end and one at or near the after end except that
dracones need not exhibit a light at or near the forward end ;
(ii) if it is 25 metres or more in breadth, two additional
all-round while light at or near the extremities of its breadth ;
(iii) if it exceeds 100 metres in length, additional all-round
white lights between the lights prescribed in sub-paragraphs (i) and
(ii) so that the distance between the lights prescribed in
sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii) so that the distance between the lights
shall not exceed 100 metres ;
(iv) a diamond shape at or near the aftermost extremity of the
last vessel or object being towed and if the length of the tow exceeds
200 metres an additional diamond shape where it can best be seen and
located as far forward as is practicable.'
(h) Where from any sufficient cause it is
impracticable for a vessel or object being towed to exhibit the lights
or shapes prescribed in paragraph (e) or (g) of this rule, all possible
measures shall be taken to light the vessel or object towed or at least
to indicate the presence of such vessel or object."
(i) Where from any sufficient cause it is
impracticable for a vessel not normally engaged in towing operations to
display the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule, such
vessel shall not be required to exhibit those lights when engaged in
towing another vessel in distress or otherwise in need of assistance.
All possible measures shall be taken to indicate the nature of the
relationship between the towing vessel and the vessel being towed as
authorized by Rule 36, in particular by illuminating the towline."
Rule 25
Sailing, vessels underway and vessels under oars
(a) A sailing
vessel underway shall exhibit :
(i) sidelights ;
(ii) a sternlight.
(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 22
metres in length the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule may
be combined in one lantern 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 roundlights in a vertical line, the upper being red and the lower
green, but these lights shall not be exhibited in conjunction with
combined lantern permitted by paragraph (b) of this Rules.
(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 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 at conical shape, apex downwards.
Rule 26
Fishing Vessels
(a) A
vessel engaged in fishing, whether underway of 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 or a dredge net or other
apparatus used as a fishing appliance, shall exhibit :
(i)
two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being green and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with their apexes
together in a vertical line one above the other ; a vessel of less than
20 metres in length may instead of this shape exhibit a basket ;
(ii) a masthead light abaft of and higher than the all-round
green light; a vessel of less than 50 metres in length shall not be
obliged to exhibit such a light but may do so ;
(iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a sternlight.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing, other
than trawling, shall exhibit :
(i)
two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with apexes together in
a vertical line one above the other ; a vessel of less than 20 metres in
length may instead of this shape exhibit a basket ;
(ii) when there is outlying gear extending more than 150 metres
horizontally from the vessel, on all-round white light or a cone apex
upwards in the direction of the hear;
(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 Regulation.
(e) A vessel when not engaged in fishing
shall not exhibit the light 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 in shapes in a vertical line where
they can best be seen.
(ii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a sternlight.
(b) A vessel restricted in here ability to
manoeuvre, except a vessel engaged in mineclearance operations; shall
exhibit.
(i)
three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen.
The highest 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 by
seen. The highest and lowest of these shapes shall be balls and the
middle one a diamond ;
(iii) when making way through the water, masthead light or
lights, sidelights and a sternlight in addition to the lights prescribed
in sub-paragraph (i) ;
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes
prescribed in sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii), the light, lights or shape
prescribed in Rule 30.
(c) A power-driven vessel engaged in a towing operation such as
severely restricts the towing vessel and her two in their ability to
deviate from their course shall in addition to the lights or shapes
prescribed in Rule 24(a), exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in
sub-paragraphs (b)(i) and (ii) of this Rule.
(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or
underwater operations when restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, shall
exhibit the lights and shapes prescribed in sub-paragraphs (b)(i), (ii)
and (iii) ; of this Rule and shall in addition, when an obstruction
exists, exhibit :
(i)
two all round red lights or two balls in a vertical line to indicate the
side on which the obstruction exists ;
(ii) two all-round green light 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 shapes prescribed in Rule 30.
(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged
in diving operations makes it impracticable to exhibit all lights and
shapes prescribed in paragraph (d) of this Rule, the following shall be
exhibited :
(i)
three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen.
The highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and the middle light
shall be white ;
(ii) a rigid replica of the International Code flag "A" not less
than 1 metre in height. Measures shall be taken to ensure its all-round
visibility.
(f) A vessel engaged in mineclearance
operations shall in addition to the lights prescribed for a power-driven
vessel in Rule 23 or to the lights or shapes 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 foremost head and one at each end of the fore yard. These lights or
shapes indicate that it is dangerous for another vessel to approach
within 1000 metres of the mineclearance vessel.
(g) Vessels of less than 12 metres in
length, except those engaged in diving operation, shall not be required
to exhibit the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(h) The signals prescribed in this Rule
are not signals of vessels in distress and requiring assistance. Such
signals are contained in Annex IV to these Regulations.
Rule 28
Vessels constrained by their draught.
A vessel constrained by her draught may, in
addition to the lights prescribed for power-driven vessels in Rule 23,
exhibit where they can best be seen three all-round red lights in a
vertical line, or a cylinder.
Rule 29
Pilot Vessels
(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage duty
shall exhibit :
(i)
at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the
upper being while and the lower red ;
(ii) when underway, in addition, sidelights and a sternlight
:
(iii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in
sub-paragraph (i), the light, lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30 for
vessels at anchor.
(b) A pilot vessel when not engaged on
pilotage duty shall exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed for a
similar vessel of here length.
Rule 30
Anchored vessels and vessels around
(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 on all-round white light where it can best be seen
instead of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule.
(c) A vessel of 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 vessel normally navigate, shall not be
required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in paragraphs (a)
and (b) of this Rules.
(a)
A vessel
of less than 12 metres in length, when around, shall not be required to
exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in sub-paragraphs (d) (i) and
(ii) of this Rule.
Rule 31
Seaplanes
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane to
exhibit 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.
PART D – SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS
Rule 32
Definitions
(a) The word "whistle" means any sound
signaling appliances capable of producing the prescribed blasts and
which complies with the specifications in
Annexure 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 second's 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 Annexure 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 signaling 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, 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 blast 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 be about the second, the
interval between flashes shall be about one second, and the interval
between successive signals shall be not less than ten second ;
(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 narrow
channel or fairways :
(i)
a vessel intending to overtake another shall in compliance with Rule
9(e)(i) indicate here intention by the following signals on here 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 blast 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 here agreement by the following signal
on her whistle :
___ one prolonged, one short, one prolonged and one short blast,
in that order.
(d) When vessels in sight of one another
are approaching each other and from any cause either vessel fails to
understand the intentions or actions of the other, or is in doubt
whether sufficient action is being taken by the other to avoid collision
the vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt by giving at
least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle. Such signal may be
supplemented by a light signal of at least five short and rapid
flashes.
(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of
a channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an
intervening obstruction shall sound one prolonged blast. Such signal
shall be answered with a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel that
may be within hearing around the bend or behind the intervening
obstruction.
(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at a distance
apart of more than 100 metres, one whistle only shall be used for giving
manoeuvring and warning signals.
Rule 35
Sound signals in restricted visibility
In or near an area of restricted visibility,
whether by day or night, the signals prescribed in this Rule shall be
used as follows :
(a) A power-driven vessel making way
through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes
one prolonged blast.
(b) A power-driven vessel underway but
stopped and making no way through the water shall sound at intervals of
not more than 2 minutes two prolonged blasts in succession with an
interval of about 2 seconds between them.
(c)
A vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to
manoeuvre, a vessel constrained by her draught a sailing vessel, a
vessel engaged in fishing and a vessel engaged in towing or pushing
another vessel shall, instead of the signals prescribed in paragraphs
(a) or (b) of this Rule sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes
three blasts in succession, namely one prolonged followed by two short
blast.
(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 m ore 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 of 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 he 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
waring of her position and of the possibility of collision to an
approaching vessel.
(h) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and if
required the gong signal prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule and
shall, in addition give three separate and district strokes on the bell
immediately before and after the rapid ringing of the bell. A vessel
aground may in addition sound an appropriate whistle signal.
(i) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length shall
not obliged to give the above mentioned signals but if she does not,
shall make some other efficient sound signal 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 (f) of
this Rule sound an identity signals consisting of four short blasts :
Rule 36
Signal to attract attention
If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel any vessel may
make light or sound 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 embrass 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.
Rule 37
Distress signals
When a
vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit
the signals described in Annexure IV to these Regulations.
PART E – EXEMPTIONS
Rule 38
Exemptions
Any vessel
(for 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 a 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 installations of lights with
colour specifications as prescribed in Section 7 of
Annexure 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 vessel 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 vessel of 150 metres or more in length, resulting
from the prescriptions of Section 3(a) of
Annexure I to these
Regulations until nine years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.
(e) The repositioning of masthead lights
resulting from the prescriptions of Section 2(b) of Annex I to these
Regulations, until nine years after the date of entry into force of
these Regulations.
(f) The repositioning of sidelights
resulting from the prescriptions of Section 3(b) of Annex I to these
Regulations, until nine years after the date of entry into force of
these Regulations.
(g) The requirements for sound signals
appliances prescribed in Annex III to these Regulations, until nine
years after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.
(h) The repositioning of all-round lights
resulting from the prescription of section 9(b) of Annex I to these
Regulations, permanent exemption.
Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes.
1. Definition –The term "height above the hull" means height above
the uppermost continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the
position vertically beneath the location of the light.
2. Vertical positioning and specing 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 les than 6 metres
and, if the breadth of the vessel exceeds 6 metres, then at a height
above the hull not less than such breadth, so however that the light
need not be placed at a greater height above the hull than 12 metres.
(ii)
When two masthead lights are carried the after one shall be at least 4.5
metres vertically higher than the forward one.
(b) The vertical separation of masthead lights of power-driven
vessels shall be such that in all normal conditions of trim the after
light will be seen over and separate from the forward light at a
distance of 1000 metres from the stem when viewed from sea level.
(c) The masthead light of a power-driven vessel of 12 metres but les
than 20 metres in length shall be placed at a height above the gunwale
of not less 2.5. metres.
(d) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 metres in length may carry
the uppermost light at a height of less than 2.5 metres above the
sunwale. When however a masthead light is carried in addition to side
lights and a sternlight then such masthead light shall be carried at
least 1 metre higher than the sidelights.
(e) One of the two or three masthead lights prescribed for a
power-driven vessel when engaged in towing or pushing another vessel
shall be placed in the same position as either the forward masthead
light or the after masthead light; provided that, if carried on the
aftermast, the lowest after masthead light shall be at least 4.5 metres
vertically higher than the forward masthead light.
(f) (i) The masthead light or lights prescribed in Rule 23(a)
shall be so placed as to be above and clear of all other lights and
obstructions except as described in sub-paragraph (ii).
(ii) When it is impracticable to carry the all-round
lights prescribed by Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 below the masthead lights,
they may be carried above the masthead lights, they may be carried above
the after masthead light(s) or vertically in between the forward
masthead light(s) and after masthead light(s) provided that in the
latter case the requirement of section 3(c) of this Annex shall be
complied with.
(g) The sidelights of a power-driven vessel shall be placed at a
height above the hull not greater than three quarters or 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 prescribed two or three lights to be carried in a
vertical line, they shall be spaced as follows :-
(i)
On a vessel or 20 metres in length or more such lights shall be spaced
not less than 2 metres apart, and the lowest of these light 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 as such lights shall be
placed 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 hull.
(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 of more in length this forward anchor light shall
be placed at a height of not less 6 metres above the hull.
3. Horizontal positioning and spacing of lights.
(a) When two masthead lights are prescribed for a power-driven vessel
the horizontal distance between them shall not be less than one half of
the length of the vessel but need not be more than 100 metres. The
forward light shall be placed not more than one quarter of the length of
the vessel from the stem.
(b) On power-driven vessel of 20 metres or more in length the
side-lights shall not be placed in front of the forward masthead
lights. They shall be placed at or near the side of the vessel.
(c) When the lights prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 are placed
vertically between the forward masthead light(s) and the after masthead
light(s) these all-round lights shall be placed at a horizontal distance
of not less than 2 metres from the fore and after centerline of the
vessel in the athwartship direction.
4.
Details of location of direction-indicating lights for fishing vessels,
dredges and vessels engaged in under water operation.
(a) The light indicating the direction of the outlying gear from
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 blue lights. This
light shall be placed not higher than the all-round while light
prescribed in Rule 26 (c) (i) and not lower than the sidelights.
(b) The lights and shapes on a vessel engaged in dredging or
underwater operations to indicate the obstructed side and/or the side on
which it is safe to pass as prescribed in Rule 27(d) (i) and (ii), shall
be placed at the maximum practical horizontal distance, but in no case
less than 2 metres, from the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b) (i)
and (ii). In no case shall the upper of these lights of shapes be at a
greater height than the lower of the three lights or shapes prescribed
in Rule 27(b) (i) and (ii).
5. Screen for sidelights.-The side lights 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 Annexure. One 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.
6. Shapes.
(a) Shapes shall be black and of the following sizes
:
(i) a
ball shall have a diameter of not less than 0.6. metre;
(ii) A
cone shall have a base diameter of not less than 0.6 metre and a height
equal to its diameter;
(iii) a
cylinder shall have a diameter of at least 0.6 metre and a height of
twice its diameter;
(iv) a
diamond shape shall consist of two cones as defined in (iii) above
having a common base.
(b) The vertical distance between shapes shall be at least 1.5 metre.
(c) In a vessel of less than 20 metres in length shapes of lesser
dimensions but commensurate with the size of the vessel may be used and
the distance apart may correspondingly reduced.
7. Colour specification of lights – The chromaticity of all
navigation light shall conform to the following standards which lie
within the boundaries of the areas 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 follow :-
(i) White
x . .
. . . . . . 0.525 0.525 0.452
0.310 0.310 0.443
y . .
. . . . . . 0.382 0.440 0440
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
(ii)
Red
x . .
. . . . . . 0.680 0.660 0.735 0.721
y . .
. . . . . . 0.320 0.320 0.265 0.259
(ii)
Yellow
x . .
. . . . . . 0.612 0.618 0.575 0.575
y . .
. . . . . . 0.382 0.382 0.425 0.406
Intensity of lights :
(a) The minimum luminous intensity of lights shall be calculated by
using the formula :
6 2
I = 3.43 x 10 x T
where I
is luminous intensity in candel as under service conditions.
-7 lux
T is threshold factor 2 x 10
D is
range of visibility (luminous range) of the light in nautical miles.
K is atmospheric transmissivity.
For prescribed lights the values of K shall be 0.8. corresponding to a
metrological visibility of approximately 13 nautical miles.
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in the
following table :
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