© Navigation Oral's at it's Best http://www.aqua2002.fsnet.co.

uk
Rules of the Road (Questions and Answers)

The following questions/answers came from candidates right after they had finished their oral exam -
these are the questions that the captain had asked them about the Rules of the Road

2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 23 34 35
Rule 2 Responsibilities

(Q) Define Rule 2-Responsibilities?

(a) That everybody is responsible for any action taken aboard a vessel, and if involved in a collision then both
parties are at fault, because the stand-on vessel did not use rule 7 risk of collision and rule 8 Action to avoid
collision.
(Q) What is the responsibilities of a skipper on the vessel?
(a) To make sure the vessel is a safe and healthy working environment
(Q) What are the responsibilities of individuals aboard your vessel?
(a) To make sure their health is good and if they see any dangers then to report them to the skipper

Rule 3 General Definitions

(Q) Describe the term "not under command"?
(a) Means a vessel through some exceptional circumstances is unable to deviate from the course she is following.
(Q) Describe the term" vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre"?
(a) Is a vessel through the nature of her work; she is unable to deviate from her course she is following.
(Q) Describe a "vessel constrained by her draught"?
(a) Is a power-driven vessel, because of her draught in relation to the depth of water she is in, cannot deviate from
the course she is following
(Q) Describe the word "Underway"?
(a) When a vessel is not at anchor, aground or made fast to the shore, and is only going through the water by tide
and/or wind.
(Q) Describe the word "Makingway"?
(a) When a vessel is being propelled through the water by engine propulsion, sails or oars.
(Q) In the Rules of the road, in some rules the word "vessel" comes up, but what would you say a
vessel is?
(a) Any type of watercraft than can carry personnel.
(Q) Describe a power-driven vessel?
(a) Any vessel that has an engine to propel herself through the water
(Q) Describe a sailing vessel?
(a) A vessel using sails & not using engine propulsion to push her through the sea.
(Q) Describe the word "seaplane"?
(a) Any aircraft that can land on water.
(Q) Your asked about the "Length & Breadth" of your vessel, what is this?
(a) The longest length of your vessel and the widest part of the vessel, you'll get this from your "Stability book" and
the "Record of particulars"
(Q) The term "when vls are in sight of one another" what does this mean?
(a) When you can see the vl visually by the naked eye during daylight or at night, Rule 34 explains the sound
signals used "When vessels are in sight of one another"

Rule 5 Look-out.
(Q) Describe rule 5 look-out?
(a) By keeping a good look-out using eyes, ears and by using all navigation aids including radios for listening out for
nav. warnings, so you can appraise any situation ahead of you.

Rule 6 Safe Speed.

(Q) Describe a safe speed by all vessels?
(a) Every vessel shall go at a safe speed so that you can stop your vessel in half the distance you can see and use
the other half to manoeuvre away from danger, taking the following factors into account: - By all
vessels:-

(i) the state of visibility

(ii) density of traffic
(iii) how manoeuvrable your vessel is, and how quick you can stop your vessel
(iv) the glare of your lights or light from the shore, you might not see the harbour entrance
(v) weather, sea state and any navigation hazards

1
(vi) the draught of your own vessel

(Q) Describe a safe speed by vessels with operational radar?

(i) the limitations of your radar

(ii) the scale in use ( too small a scale could be hiding targets )
(iii) weather, sea and rain clutter ( target could be hiding in clutter )
(iv) ice, small vessels not detected by radar
(v) vessels detected by radar
(vi) determine the range of other vessels

Rule 7 Risk of Collision.

(Q) What would you use to determine a risk of collision?
(a) Compass, radar and visual bearings (visual bearings being the most reliable)
(Q) What scale is your radar(s) on?
(a) 6 and 12 miles.
(Q) Why is your radar on the 12 miles scale?
(a) For early detection of targets.
(Q) You've taken 1 radar plot of a target, would you alter with this plot?
(a) No.
(Q) You've taken a 2nd radar plot of a target, would you alter with this plot?
(a) No.
(Q) Why would you not alter with 1 and 2 plots?
(a) Rule 7 part (c) says not to rely on scanty info, especially scanty radar info.
(Q) What are the dangers with radar plotting?
(a) Time is being wasted and could put your vessel into a collision course
(Q) If the bearings are steady, is there a risk of collision?
(a) Yes.
(Q) If the bearings are not steady, could there still be a risk of collision?
(a) Yes.
(Q) What situations?
(a) With a large vessel, a long tow or a close quarter situation.
(Q) If plotting a vessel towing a vessel towing another vessel with the length of tow being 2 miles
long, what are you going to take bearings of?
(a) The stem of the towing vessel and the stern of the vessel being towed, everything in between is a risk of
collision.

Rule 8 Action to avoid collision.

(Q) What 4 actions can you take to avoid a collision?

(i) an early and bold alteration of course, as long as you do not put your vessel into another close quarter
situation/risk of collision with another vessel
(ii) slow your vessel down
(iii) stop your vessel
(iv) come astern with your vessel
(Q) Why are you always making an alteration of course, why do you not stop your vessel?
(a) To make sure the risk of collision/close quarter situation is taken out, also the other vessel ill see the change of
aspect of your vessel (Visually and by radar)
(Q) If you make an alteration of course, what have you to watch out for?
(a) That you don not put yourself into a close quarter situation with another vessel.
(Q) If you make an alteration of course, why is it dangerous to make a series of small alterations?
(a) Because you could go into a close quarters situation/risk of collision
(Q) If you're unsure about what to do in a situation, what's the best thing to do?
(a) Slow your vessel down, best to stop your vessel altogether.

Rule 9 Narrow Channels.

(Q) What side of the narrow channel would you keep?
(a) The starboard side of the narrow channel as long as your vl is in safe water.
(Q) What would you sound to overtake a vessels starboard side?
(a) (Morse "G") (2 prolonged blasts followed by 1 short blast on the whistle
(Q) What would you sound to overtake a vessels port side?
(a) (Morse "Z")(2 prolonged blasts followed by 2 short blasts on the whistle)
(Q) What would you sound if you agree to be overtaken in a narrow channel?
(a) (Morse "C")(1 prolonged, 1 short, 1 prolonged, 1 short blast on the whistle)
(Q) What would you sound if you disagree to be overtaken in a narrow channel?
(a) (5 or more short and rapid blasts on the whistle)

2
(Q) What would you sound coming up to a bend in a narrow channel?
(a) (1 prolonged blast on the whistle)
(Q) If there is another vessel coming around the bend and he heard your warning signal, what would
he sound?
(a) (1 prolonged blast on the whistle to let you know he is there)
(Q) What 3 vessels do not impede any other vls using a narrow channel?
(a) A fishing vessel, sailing vessel and vessels under 20 metres
(Q) Are you allowed to cross a narrow channel?
(a) Yes, as long as you do not impede any vessel using the narrow channel
(Q) If you where in a narrow channel, and there is a vessel crossing a narrow channel, what would you
sound to get him to stop & let you pass?
(a) 5 or more short & rapid blasts on the whistle to indicate that your unsure of his intentions.

Rule 10 Traffic Separation Schemes.

(Q) How do you join a lane?
(a) At the start of a lane or at a small an angle as possible to the lane.
(Q) How do you leave a lane?
(a) At the end of a lane or at a small an angle as possible to the lane.
(Q) How do you cross the lanes?
(a) At 90 degrees to the lane.
(Q) Why 90 degrees?
(a) Because it's the quickest way across, and vessels in the lane can see the aspect of your vessel.
(Q) If crossing a lane, what 3 vessels do not impede any vl using a lane?
(a) A fishing vessel, a sailing vessel and a power-driven vessel under 20metres.
(Q) What vessels can use the inshore zone?
(a) A power-driven vessel under 20 metres, sailing vessels, fishing vessels, vessels going to or from a port, going
from port to port in the scheme, going into anchor to do emergency repairs, to avoid immediate danger, to lay
submarine cables or to do repairs to buoys within the scheme.
(Q) What vessels can use the traffic separation zone?
(a) Fishing vls, anchor for emergency repairs, crossing vessels, to avoid immediate danger, to lay submarine cables
or to do repairs to buoys within the scheme.
(Q) Where can you anchor in a scheme?
(a) Anywhere, as long as it's to do emergency repairs, try and avoid anchoring in the lanes and at the terminations.
(Q) What would you do if you had to stop your main engine to do emergency repairs in a lane and had
to anchor?
(a) Call up the port and advise them, also put out a security warning other vessels that you're at anchor, put up
anchor lights and daytime signal.
(Q) Where can you fish in the scheme?
(a) Anywhere, but if fishing in a lane then go with the flow of traffic, and try and avoid fishing at the terminations.
(Q) Would you fish in a traffic separation scheme?
(a) This is a personnel question, there is a lot of large traffic there; you would be putting your crew and vessel into
dangerous situations.
(Q) Could a supertanker leave a lane at 90 degrees come into the inshore zone to a pilot station, pick
up a pilot and then cross to the opposite inshore zone at 90 degrees?
(a) No, he would have to leave the lane at a small an angle as possible to the lanes.
(Q) If you're in a power-driven vessel, crossing a scheme and on your port bow is another power-
driven vessel in a lane, the bearing are steady and the distance is closing, what are you going to do?
(a) First find out length of vessel you are in.
(Q) Does it matter what size the power-driven vessel is that you're in?
(a) Yes, if under 20 metres and crossing a lane, then you would have to giveway to every vessel in the lane.
(Q) Your in a 30 metres power-driven vessel crossing a lane, and there is a power-driven vessel on
your port bow in a lane, the bearings are steady and the distance is closing, what are you going to do?
(a) Stand-on with caution, maintaining your course and speed.
(Q) How would the power-driven vessel leave the lane?
(a) He would make an early and bold alteration to starboard sounding 1 short blast on the whistle indicating he is
altering to starboard.
(Q) Would he line up your stern and go around it?
(a) No, this would be a close quarter situation and could make you alter your course and put into a collision course
with another vessel.
(Q) After the vessel came around your stern, how would he get back into the lane?
(a) At a small angle as possible to the general flow of traffic.
(Q) If you where in any vl, just outside the scheme, would you manoeuvre here?
(a) No, it says if not using the scheme, then to give it a wide a margin as possible.
(Q) If you're fishing in a lane, and there is a power-driven vessel overtaking you, what are you going
to do?
(a) Stand-on with caution, you have to use rule 13 Overtaking.
(Q) If you're crossing a lane in a fishing vl & any vessel is on your port bow in a lane, the bearings are
steady & the distance is closing, what are you going to do?
(a) If you're crossing & the bearings are steady, then you have to give-way to all vls in a lane.

Short cut to remember which vessels use the inshore zone & the separation zone

3
 Vessels that can use the
Vessels that can use Inshore Zone
Separation Zone
3 boats + P.P.AID FACID

Fishing Fishing Vessels

Sailing Vessels going into Anchor
PDV under 20 metres Crossing vessels
Boats going from Port to Port Boats leaving the lane to avoid
Boats anchoring immediate danger
Boats leaving the lane to avoid immediate danger Also
Also Vessels restricted in her ability to
Vessels restricted in her ability to manoeuvre laying cables/buoys manoeuvre laying cables/buoys

Rule 12 Sailing vessels

(Q) In the following sketches which sailing vessel is the Giveway vessel?

(Q) On a sailing vessel, what is deemed as the windward side?

(a) Opposite side to which the main sail is carried, windward side is usually the port side of the vessel.
Rule 13 Overtaking.
(Q) What's classed as an overtaking vessel?
(a) When you're coming up on another vl MORE than 22.5 degrees abaft the beam.
(Q) What light will you see at night if you're overtaking another vessel?
(a) The sternlight of the other vessel.
(Q) What are your priorities when overtaking another vessel?
(a) To keep well clear of the vessel being overtaken until well past and clear.
(Q) What distance would you say is well past and clear?
(a) At least 4 miles.
(Q) If you're overtaking another vessel and now you're abeam of the other vessel are you overtaking
or crossing?
(a) You're still an overtaking vessel until well past and clear
(Q) If you're in any vl & any vl is overtaking you what would you do?
(a) Stand-on with caution keeping your course and speed.
(Q) If you're coming up on a vessel at 22.5 degrees abaft the beam, are you a crossing vessel or
overtaking vessel?
(a) You're a crossing vessel, the word MORE is missing.
(Q) If you're overtaking a vessel, you're on his starboard quarter and the other vessel is on your stem,
what action will you take?
(a) Take the shortest course, sound 2 short blasts on the whistle and make an early and bold alteration to port and
go around the other vessel's stern.
(Q) If you're overtaking a vessel, you're on his port quarter and the other vessel is on your stem, what
action will you take?
(a) Take the shortest course, sound 1 short blast on the whistle and make an early and bold alteration to starboard
and go around the other vessel's stern.
(Q) If you're coming up on a vessel, and one minute you're seeing his sternlight, then his sidelight,
then his sternlight, is this a crossing situation or an overtaking situation?
(a) This is an overtaking situation.
Rule 14 Head-on Situations.
(Q) According to the rule, what types of vessels do you need?
(a) 2 power-driven vessels.
(Q) In a head-on situation between 2 power-driven vessels, how do you know it's a head-on situation
at night?
(a) Because you would see his masthead light in between his sidelights.
(Q) What action will you take with 2 P-driven vls in a head-on situation?
(a) Both vessels will sound 1 short blast on the whistle and make an early and bold alteration to starboard.
(Q) What action will you take if you're in a power-driven vl, & in a head-on situation with a fishing vl,
also what action would the fishing vessel take?
(a) You will sound 1 short blast on the whistle and make an early & bold alteration to stb’d, the fishing vl will stand-
on with caution because he is most hampered.
Rule 15 Crossing Situations.
(Q) What type of vessels do you need for this rule?
(a) 2 power-driven vessels.
(Q) How do you know who is the giveway vessel in a crossing situation?
(a) You're the giveway vl if you have another power-driven vl on your stb’d side.

4
Rule 16. Action by Giveway Vessels.
(Q) If you were the Giveway vessel, what action would you take?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration of course, you could slow down, stop your vessel or come astern, but if plenty
of distance, an alteration is the best means to avoid a collision.

Rule 17. Action by Stand-on Vessels.

(Q) If you're the stand-on vessel, what action will you take?
(a) Stand-on with caution, keeping your course and speed.
(Q) If the Giveway vl were standing on, what warning signal would you give him?
(a) 5 or more short & rapid blasts on the whistle, to indicate that you are unsure of his intentions.
(Q) If you're in a power-driven vessel, and on your port bow there is another power-driven vessel, who
is standing-on, collision course, you've gave him 5 or more short and rapid blasts on the whistle, you
got no response from him, what action will you take now?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration away from him, in this case, 1 short blast on the whistle & an early & bold
alteration to starboard and show him your sternlight.
(Q) If you're in a fishing vessel, & on your starboard bow is a sailing vessel, who is standing-on,
collision course, you've gave him 5 or more short and rapid blasts on the whistle, you got no response
from him, what action will you take now?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration away from him, in this case, 2 short blasts on the whistle and make an early
and bold alteration to port.
(Q) What actions for the stand-on vessel if the giveway vessel stands-on?
(a) If the giveway vl stands on; the stand-on vl may alter course (outside 4 miles)
(inside 4 miles)If in a close quarter situation and the giveway vessel stands on; the stand-on vessel shall alter
course

Rule 18. Responsibilities between vessels.

(Q) If you are in a power-driven vessel, there are 6 vessels that you should give way to, name them?
(a) A power-driven vessel on your starboard bow.
(b) A sailing vessel
(c) A fishing vessel
(d) A vessel not under command
(e) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
(f) If the circumstances of the case admit, a vessel constrained by her draught.
(Q) If you are in a fishing vl, then you’ve to give way to 4 vls, name them?
(a) A fishing vessel on your starboard bow
(b) A vessel not under command
(c) A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
(d) If the circumstances of the case admit, a vessel constrained by her draught.
(Q) If you're in a power-driven vessel, or fishing vessel, would you stand-on or giveway to a vessel
constrained by her draught?
(a) Your best to Giveway to a vessel constrained by her draught.
(Q) Is there any rule that says you should try to avoid impeding the safe passage of a vessel
constrained by her draught?
(a) Yes, Rule 18d part (1) says any vessel other than a vessel not under command or a vl 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.
(Q) Usually what type of vessel would a vl constrained by her draught be?
(a) Very large supertanker carrying crude oil.
(Q) So what would happen if you stood-on to a vessel constrained by her draught?
(a) She could easily go aground and tear the bottom out of her hull, causing a major ecological disaster, killing all
seabirds, covering the coastline with oil, pollution at its worst.

A power-driven vessel gives way to…… A fishing vessel gives way to….

5
3 Big 3 Big

2 small Restricted in her ability 1 awkward Restricted in

to manoeuvre her ability to
1 awkward Not under command manoeuvre
Constrained by her Not under
draught command
Constrained
by her
Sailing
draught
Fishing
A fishing
vessel on
A power-driven vessel your own
on your own starboard starboard
side side

Rule 19. Conduct of vessels in Restricted Visibility.

(Q) What does Rule 19 mean to you?
(a) This Rule applies to all vessels in or near an area of Restricted Visibility.
IN OTHER WORDS: -
(THERE ARE NO STAND_ON VESSELS IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY)
(Q) What would you say a safe speed was in Restricted visibility?
(a) A speed that you could stop your vessel in half the visible distance you could see, so you could alter using Rule
19 (d) parts (i) and (ii)
(Q) What does part (a) say?
(a) This Rule Applies to all vessels in or near an area of restricted visibility
(Q) What does part (b) say?
(a) Go at a safe speed and have your engines ready for immediate manoeuvres
(Q) What does part (c) say?
(a) Have Due regards to the prevailing condition
Rule 18 Responsibilities tips

A Power-driven vessel Givesway to 6 vessels;

(3 Big) Not Under Command

Restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
If the Circumstances of the case admit a vessel Constrained by her
draught

(2 Small) A Fishing vessel

A Sailing vessel

(1 Awkward) A Power-driven vessel showing you a port side light

A Fishing vessel Givesway to 4 vessels;

(3 Big) Not Under Command

Restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
If the Circumstances of the case admit a vessel Constrained by her
draught

(1 Awkward) A Fishing vessel showing you a port side light

In both the above tables both vessels givesway to;

Not under command.

Restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.
Constrained by her draught.

Questions about vessels;

(Q) Define a vessel not under command?

(a) A vessel through some exceptional circumstances is unable to deviate from the course she is

6
following.

(Q) Define some exceptional circumstances?

(a) Engine failure, lost rudder, lost steering, crew all have food poisoning, vessel sinking, fatigued
crew but this should never happen, radio communication lost.

(Q) Mis-use of not under command lights is a common thing, so why do vls do it?
(a) To keep other vessels away from them.

(Q) If you saw a vessel mis-using not under command lights what would you do?
(a) Report the vessel to the coastguard.

(Q) A vessel constrained by her draught, usually what type of vessel is she?
(a) A Super-tanker.

(Q) What cargo could she be carrying?

(a) Crude oil.

(Q) What would happen if you stood on to a vessel constrained by her draught?
(a) Nothing should happen, the captain of the vl constrained by her draught should be navigating
with particular caution because of his special condition.

(Q) What would happen to the tanker if he could not stop his vessel quick enough because you stood
on?
(a) He could easily go aground and rip his tanks open.

(Q) What damage would happen to the sea and coast?

(a) There would be an ecological disaster, all sea life would perish and the beaches would take
forever to clean up.

(Q) So it would be best to stay clear of a vessel constrained by her draught if possible?
(a) Yes.

(Q) What 2 vessels can stand-on for a vessel constrained by her draught?
(a) A vl not under command and a vl restricted in her ability to manoeuvre.
(Q) Define a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre?
(a) A vessel through the nature of his work cannot deviate from his course he is following.

(Q) What types of vessels can be restricted in her ability to manoeuvre?

(a) A seismic vessel, a minesweeper, a vessel towing something, someone being transferred
between 2 vessels, an aircraft carrier.
Overtaking Situations
(a) When your coming up on another vessel
(1) What is deemed as an overtaking vessel?
more than 22.5 degrees abaft the beam

(2) What light will you see at night if you're

(a) Only the sternlight
overtaking?

(3) You're overtaking another vessel, now your (a) Once you begin to overtake a vessel you
abeam of him, are you a crossing or overtaking remain an overtaking vessel until well past and
vessel now? clear

(a) As a Rule Of Thumb, Make a Close Quarter

(4) You have passed the vessel your overtaking,
Situation 4 miles out in the open sea, so No this
your about a mile past him, can you alter course
is not enough distance clear of the vessel being
now?
overtaking

(5) You're overtaking another vessel, when can you (a) Once your well passed and clear (at least 4
become a crossing vessel? miles)

(a) Your a crossing vessel, you have to be more

(6) You're coming up on a vessel at 22.5 degrees
than 22.5 degrees abaft his beam to be
abaft his beam, are you a crossing or overtaking
overtaking (22.6 degrees is overtaking) (The
vessel now?
word MORE is missing)

7
(7) You're coming up on another vessel at 22.5
(a) The sidelight, you wont see the sternlight till
degrees abaft the beam, what light will you see at
your more than 22.5 degrees abaft the beam
night, the sidelight or the sternlight?

(8) Your overtaking another vessel, your vessel is

(a) If in doubt you make yourself an overtaking
sheering, one minute you see a sternlight then a
vessel and go around the stern of the vessel
sidelight then a sternlight then a sidelight, are you
your overtaking
a crossing or overtaking vessel?

(9) A vessel Not Under Command is overtaking you, (a) He is duty bound to keep clear of you, so you
will you stand-on or giveway to this vessel, he is will stand-on with caution (BE VERY CAUTIOUS
having major problems steering? WITH THIS VESSEL OVERTAKING YOU)

(10) You're in a power-driven vessel in a traffic lane

(a) Stand-on with caution, maintaing your
and any vessel is overtaking you, what are you
course and speed
going to do?

(11) You're in a sailing vessel in a traffic lane and

(a) Stand-on with caution, maintaing your
any vessel is overtaking you, what are you going to
course and speed
do?

(12) You're in a fishing vessel in a traffic lane and

(a) Stand-on with caution, maintaing your
any vessel is overtaking you, what are you going to
course and speed
do?

(a) There are no stand-on vessels in restricted

(13) In restricted visibility, your overtaking another
visibility, any situation in restricted visibility
vessel, will you stand-on or giveway?
everyone givesway

(a) Take the quickest way past him so you can

(14) In restricted visibility you're overtaking
get back onto your original course, go around
another vessel, how ill you decide on the best way
the vessel being overtaken's stern, (Never pass
to pass him?
ahead of him)

(a) Avoid an alteration to port for a vessel

(15) What does it say in Rule 19 Restricted Visibility forward of the beam, other than for a vessel
about overtaking vessels (Rule 19d part (i) ? being overtaken (in other words - UNLESS YOUR
AN OVERTAKING VESSEL)

RULE 19 - Restricted Visibility & Fog Related Questions

Question - Answers and Tips

Imagine That the image above is your Radar Screen and your vessel is in the middle of the screen, we then split
the radar screen into four quarters

With the Diagram above:

8
If there is an "S" then you would make an early and bold alteration to Starboard

If there is a "P" then you would make an early and bold alteration to Port

if there is a vessel dead astern of you and he's overtaking you then you can alter either way

If there's a vessel on your starboard beam, then alter hard to Port

If you're overtaking a vessel "Take the shortest possible route" to get back onto your original course and go around
his stern (Avoid as much as possible crossing ahead of the vessel your overtaking, this is a very dangerous
manoeuvre)

Questions and Answers with tips

(Q) What Does Rule 19 mean to you?

(a) The Conduct of vessels in or near an area of restricted visibility

(Q) What is a safe speed in restricted visibility?

(a) A speed that you can stop in half the visible distance you can see, so you can manoeuvre out of danger in the
other half (if the visibility is zero, then mimimum speed that you can keep your course)
(Q) What does Rule 19 part (a) say?
(a) This Rule applies to ALL vessels in or near an area of Restricted visibility (so if you're in a power-driven vessel
and the other vessel is "Not Under Command", both vessels have to use Rule 19 and both have to give way

(Q) What does Rule 19 part (b) say?

(a) Every vl shall go at a safe speed & have her engines ready for immediate manoeuvre

(Q) What does Rule 19 part (c) say?

(a) Every vessel shall have due regards to the prevailing conditions and circumstances of restricted visibility

(What it means)

(i) Keep an eye on the weather,

(ii) Get the skipper up and double up the watch,

(iii) Open the windows and listen for fog signals,

(iv) Start to sound your own fog signal

(v) Man the radar's

(vi) Have your engines ready to stop or come astern

(vii) Be ready to switch the autopilot off and go onto manual steering

(viii) Close all watertight doors - incase of a collision

(Q) What does Rule 19 (d) say?

(a) Take a series of Radar Bearings to see if a risk of collision/close quarters situation exists and if so then the
following should be avoided (d parts i & ii)

(Q) What does Rule 19 (d) part (i) say?

(a) Avoid an alteration to PORT for a vessel forward of the beam - unless your overtaking

9
(Q) What does Rule 19 (d) part (ii) say?
(a) Avoid an alteration towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam

(Q) What does Rule 19 part (e) say?

(a) If you hear a fog signal but can't detect him on radar or cannot avoid a close quarter situation, then slow down
your vessel and if still unsure stop your vessel until the danger is final past and clear

(Q) In restricted visibility– you’ve detected a vl, but what does detect mean?
(a) That you can see the target on your radar screen

(Q) If you plot a vessel on radar and the 3 bearings are steady what does this mean?
(a) That your on a collision course

(Q) If you plot a vl on radar and the 3 bearings are nearly steady, what does this mean?
(a) That you are going into a close quarter situation/collision course
(Q) You have just one plot of a target on screen, what are you going to do with this?
(a) Keep plotting him, this is scanty radar information & can't be relied upon

(Q) You have two plot's of a target on screen, what are you going to do with this?
(a) Keep plotting him, this is scanty radar information & can't be relied upon

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target on your starboard bow bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Starboard - other vessel should do the same (Rule 19 d part (i) for you)

(Q) What manoeuvring signal will you make for that manoeuvre?
(a) None, manoeuvring signals are only used when "VESSELS ARE IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER"

(Q)You have 3 plots of a target on your port bow-bearings steady-what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Starboard - other vessel should do the same (Rule 19 d part (i) for you)

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target on your port beam - bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Starboard - other vessel should do the same (Rule 19 d part (ii) for you)

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target on your port quarter - bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Starboard - other vessel can go to port/starboard if he is overtaking you
(Rule 19 d part (ii) for you)

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target dead astearn - bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Starboard/Port - other vessel can go to port/starboard if he is overtaking
you (Rule 19 d part (ii) for you)

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target on your Starboard quarter - bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Port - other vessel can go to port/starboard if he is overtaking you (Rule 19
d part (ii) for you)

(Q) You have 3 plots of a target on your Starboard beam - bearings steady - what are you going to do?
(a) Make an early and bold alteration to Port - other vessel should go to starboard (Rule 19 d part (ii) for you)

(Q) You have taken 2 plots of a vessel on your starboard bow and about to take a third plot when you blew a fuse
on your radar, the engineer is trying to find a fuse, what are you going to do?
(a) Stop your vl & change your fog signal if in a power-driven vl to 2 prolonged blasts on the ships whistle, if in a
hampered vl then leave the fog signal as 1 prolonged blast followed by 2 short blasts on the ships whistle
(Q) What distance would you say is a close quarter situation?
(a) Out in the open sea - 4 miles

(Q) Your enginner has fixed the radar but in the time it took him to find a fuse you have landed in a close quarter
situation, what are you going to do?
(a) Come full astern with the vessel and hopefully miss the oncoming vessel, if there was a collision then you would
lessen the damage

(Q) What is the fog Signal for a fishing vessel - Underway or Making way?
(a) One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding two minutes

(Q) What is the fog signal for a power-driven vl - Underway or Makingway?

10
(a) ONE prolonged blast if Makingway and TWO prolonged blasts if Underway on the ships whistle at intervals not
exceeding two minutes

(Q) What is the fog signal for the following?

(i) A Sailing vessel
(ii) A fishing vessel
(iii) A vessel Not Under Command
(iv) A vessel Restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
(v) A vessel Constrained by her Draught
(vi) A vessel engaged in towing something
(vii) A minesweeper
(vii) A dredger

(a) One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding two minutes

(Q) What is the fog signal for the following?

(i) A pilot vessel
(ii) A supertanker
(iii) A ferry
(iv) A passenger liner
(v) A hovercraft
(vi) A sailing vessel with a cone apex down
(vii) A fishing vessel with his fishing gear still on the vessel

(a) If Makingway - ONE prolonged blast and if Underway TWO prolonged blasts on the ships whistel at intervals not
exceeding 2 minutes

(Q) What is the fog signal for a vessel towing a manned vessel?
(a) One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts by the towing vessel and the vessel being towed will sound
One prolonged blast followed by three short blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2 minutes
The towing vessel sound his signal immediaty after the towing vessels signal

(Q) What is the Pilots identity signal?

(a) He may if he want sound an identity signal of 4 short blasts on the ships whistle
(There is no Time limit with the pilots identity signal)

(Q) What is the fog signal of a Pilot vessel underway - then Makingway?
(a) When UNDERWAY - 2 prolonged blasts on the ships whistle followed by 4 short blasts to indicate he has a pilot
onboard
When MAKINGWAY - 1 prolonged blast on the ships whistle followed by 4 short blasts to indicate he has a pilot
onboard

(Q) A vessel at Anchor under 100 metres - what is his fog signal?
(a) (5) TIPS - remember the number
A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds at intervals not exceeding 1 minute

(Q) A vessel at anchor over 100 metres - what is his fog signal?
(a) (5 - 5) TIPS - remember the numbers

A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds followed by

A rapid ringing on the gong aft for 5 sec at intervals not exceeding ONE minute

(Q) What is the warning signal a vessel may sound if he is at anchor to alert others they are on a collision course or
coming to close to him?
(a) Morse "R" which is - 1 short - 1 Long - 1 short blast on the ships whistle

(Q) A Pilot onboard a vessel at anchor under 100 m - what is the fog signal?
(a) (5 - 4) TIPS - Remember the numbers

11
A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds at intervals not exceeding ONE minute and if he wants he may sound 4
short blast to indicate there is a Pilot onboard (No time limit for pilots identity signal)

(Q) A Pilot onboard a vessel at anchor over 100 m - what is the fog signal?
(a) (5 - 5 - 4) TIPS
A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds followed by
A rapid ringing on the gong aft for 5 sec at intervals not exceeding 1 minute
He may if he wants sound the pilots identity signal of 4 short blasts on the ships whistle (No time
limit for the Pilots identity signal)

(Q) A vessel aground under 100 metres - what is his fog signal?
(a) (3 - 5 - 3) TIPS - remember the numbers
3 distinct strokes on the bell
rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds
3 distinct strokes on the bell
at intervals not exceeding ONE minute

(Q) A vessel aground over 100 metres - what is his fog signal?
(a) (3 - 5 - 3 - 5) TIPS - remember the numbers
3 distinct strokes on the bell
rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds
3 distinct strokes on the bell
rapid ringing on the gong aft for 5 seconds
at intervals not exceeding ONE minute

(Q) You heard a fog signal - can you tell where this fog signal is coming from, you can't see nothing on radar?
(a) No, the sound in restricted visibility deceives the human ear

(Q) You heard a fog signal - you're unsure where it's coming from - what are you going to do with your vessel?
(a) Slow down to a minimum speed & if still unsure - stop your vl until the danger is past

(Q) A small sailing vessel is a very bad radar target, the echo passes over the vessel, how can he improve his
chances of being detected on radar?
(a) By putting up a radar reflector as high up his mast as possible

(Q) Autopilots - do you use them while in restricted visibility - if so why do you use them then?
(a) Because using an autopilot in restricted visibility gives you more time to study the radar and listen out for fog
signals, as long as you can switch the autopilot off very quickly and go onto manual steering

(Q) Autopilot - what is the maximum time allowed by the rules to switch them off to go onto manual steering?
(a) Maximum is 30 seconds - I personnely think this is too long

Traffic Separation Schemes (Alteration Tips)

Situations with you crossing a lane

You're crossing in a PDV over 20 metres

12
You're crossing a lane in a PDV under 20 metres

13
You're Crossing a lane in a sailing vessel

14
You're Crossing a lane in a fishing vessel

15
 Now You're in a lane

(Q) You're in a traffic lane in a Power-driven Vessel (Any Size)

(Q) You're in the Traffic Lane in a Sailing vessel

(a) Stand-on to the 3 vessels that are not allowed to impede you and a power-driven vessel on both
sides

the 3 vessels that are not allowed to impede you are

(1) A fishing vessel

16
 (2) A sailing vessel

(3) A power-driven vessel under 20 metes in length

(Q) You're in the Traffic Lane in a fishing vessel

(a) Stand-on to the 3 vessels that are not allowed to impede you and a power-driven vessel on both
sides

the 3 vessels that are not allowed to impede you are

(1) A fishing vessel

(2) A sailing vessel

(3) A power-driven vessel under 20 metes in length

Restricted Visibility
(Q) You're in the Inshore Zone about to cross a Traffic lane in Restricted Visibility (Target in lane &
Bearings are steady)

(a) Make an early and bold alteration to starboard using Rule 19d part 1
other vessel should do the same

(Q) You're in the Separation Zone about to cross a Traffic lane in Restricted Visibility (Target in lane &
Bearings are steady)

(a) Make an early and bold alteration to starboard using Rule 19d part 1
other vessel should do the same

(Q) You're in the Traffic Lane in restricted visibility and there are targets on your port and starboard
bow (bearing steady on both targets)

(a) Make an early and bold alteration to starboard using Rule 19d part 1
other vessels should do the same

Unusual Circumstances

(Q) You're in the Traffic Lane in a fishing vessel about to be overtaken by a supertanker, what will you
do?

(a) Stand-on with caution maintaining your course and speed

Any vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken

(Q) You're in a traffic lane and in a head-on situation with another vessel who's in the lane coming the
wrong way, what are you going to do?

17
 (a) Sound One short blast and make a bold alteration to starboard and get away from this vessel
Remember to report this vessel to the port authorities who should be tracking both your vessel and
the other vessel, also make an entry into your offical log book and fill out an I.R.F. (Incident Report
Form) and send this to the M.A.I.B.

Traffic Separation Scheme Alteration Tips

If you're in a POWER-DRIVEN VESSEL OVER 20 METRES IN LENGTH crossing a scheme

Then Normal Rules apply
Figure out who is most hampered, and then who is the giveway vessel

If you're in a Fishing vessel, Sailing Vessel or a power-driven vessel under 20 metres in length
crossing a Scheme
Then You do not impede any vessel using a lane
If you're in a power-driven vessel (Any Size), a fishing vessel or a sailing vessel in a lane
Then Normal rules apply
Watch for the 3 VESSELS THAT DON'T IMPEDE YOU IN A LANE
If you're in a FISHING VESSEL in a lane
Then Normal rules apply
Watch for the 3 VESSELS THAT DON'T IMPEDE YOU IN A LANE

Action to Avoid Collision

If your are going to make an alteration of course make sure its an early and bold alteration as long as you have
plenty sea room

Every alteration must be big enough so the other vl can see it on his radar

A series of small alterations should be avoided

When making an alteration of course, make sure you don't place your vessel into a close quarter situation/risk of
collision with another vessel

When taking action to avoid collision you can do one of 4 things

(1) Make an early and bold alteration of course
(2) slow your vessel down
(3) stop your vessel
(4) come astern with your vessel

If you are ever in doubt your best thing to do is stop your vl until the risk of collision is past (also
gives you more thinking time as to what you can do)

After making an alteration of course, take more bearings to make sure the risk of collision/close quarter situation
is past

If in a collision course

If you're the stand-on vessel you may alter course as long as your not in a close quarters situation, but if in a
close quarters situation you shall alter course (Never get into a close quarter situation if you can help it)

Rule of thumb
From 8 to 12 miles - this is your plotting distance to find out if risk of collision/close quarters situation exists

From 4 to 8 miles - this is your/other vessels action area

below 4 miles - close quarters situation (out in the open sea, you should have no vessel within 4 miles)

18
 What you have to do in any sitation.

Take a series of compass, radar and visual bearing to see if a "Risk of Collision/close quarters situation
(1)
exists"
(2) Figure out who the giveway/stand-on vessel is
(3) If your the stand-on vessel then use (A) below
(4) If your the giveway vessel then use (B) below
If the giveway vessel is standing on then sound 5 or more short and rapid blasts on the ships whistle or
(5)
flash your masthead light rapidly 5 or more times, if you get no response then use (C) below

Stand-on with caution, maintaining your course and speed, keep taking bearings to make sure the
(A)
giveway vessel givesway
As long as there is pleanty sea-room, make an early and bold alteration towards the giveway vessel, give
(B)
him plenty sea-room, if not a lot of sea-room stop your vessel and let him pass
(C) Make an bold alteration away from this vessel (he could be a pirate vessel)
!!! Never alter towards the giveway vessel !!!

Close Quarters situation

This should not have happened if you had been watching and keeping a safewatch

If you get into a close quarter situation with another vessel and your the stand-on vessel, you
have to get away from him at all costs

Make a very large alteration away from the other vessel as long as your not putting yourself into
a close quarter situation with another vessel (maybe another vessel overtaking you at the same
time)

The way I see it Rule 8 has to be the most important Rule of the Road, by Using it and taking
action to avoid collision you can save life, this Rule is vital to learn, using Rule 8 "Action to Avoid
collision" means you can break any Rule of the Road to avoid collision, Break a rule to save a life
(You and your Crews as well as the other vessels crew)

Get hold of this vessel on the VHF or take the vessels name and number and port and report him
to the coastguard

you can also call him up on VHF 16 and say

According to the Rules and regulations regarding collision avoidance it states that you're the
giveway vessel

19
 I will give you one minute to alter course

Then if he does not alter course

Get in contact with the MCA and report him

Fill in an IRF form and send it to the MAIB

He will then be brought up in front of an MCA Captain and be severely reprimanded

They might even take his Certificate of Competency away from him

It's your responsibility to make sure you get your crew home safely

Navigation Orals at it's Best

Narrow Channels situations asked by M.C.A. Captains

(Q) You're in a Power-driven vessel doing 5 knots (Q) What is the sound signel you would make if you want to
and ahead of you is a vessel doing 3 knots, what pass his port-side and what is the sound signal to port pass
will you do? his starboard side?
(a) Make the sound signal for overtaking the (a) To pass his port-side you would sound Morse "Z" which is
vessel ahead of you 2 prolonged blasts followed by 2 short blasts on the ships
whistle
To pass his starboard-side you would sound Morse "G" which
is 2 prolonged blasts followed by one short blast on the
ships whistle

(Q) What would you expect the overtaking vessel (Q) He has not given you the sound signal that he agrees to
to sound after you gave him your overtaking be overtaken; what will you do now?
signal?
(a) He should sound Morse "C" which is 1 (a) Slow your vessel down to the same speed that his is
prolonged blast followed by 1 short blast followed doing and give him the overtaking sound signal again
by 1 prolonged blast followed by 1 short blast on
the ships whistle; this means he agrees to be
overtaken

20
(Q) The vessel your about to overtake still has not
(Q) The vessel being overtaken has given you permission to
gave you his sound signal to agree to be
overtake him and now your abeam of him - are you an
overtaken - is there any other signal he can give
overtaking vessel or a crossing vessel?
you?
(a) Yes he can give you the International code of (a) Once you make yourself an overtaking vessel you remain
signals - flag "Charlie" - which means - I agree an overtaking vl until well ast & clear of the vl being
overtaken

(Q) What's deemed/classed as an overtaking (Q) You have passed the vessel your overtaking, your about
vessel? a mile past him, can you alter course now?
(a) Coming up on another vessel MORE than 22.5o (a) As a Rule Of Thumb, Make a Close Quarter Situation 4
abaft the beam of the vessel being overtaken miles out in the open sea, so No this is not enough distance
clear of the vessel being overtaking

(Q) What light will you see at night-time if your (Q) You're coming up on a vessel at 22.5o abaft the beam -
overtaking another vessel? are you a crossing vessel or an overtaking vessel?
(a) The sternlight of the vessel being overtaken
(a) You'd be a crossing vesel - the word "MORE" is missing
and no sidelights

(Q) Coming up on a vessel at 22.5o abaft the beam (Q) Your overtaking another vessel, your vessel is sheering,
- what light will you see at night? one minute you see a sternlight then a sidelight then a
sternlight then a sidelight, are you a crossing or overtaking

21
 vessel?
(a) One of the sidelights - you will not see a
(a) If in doubt you make yourself an overtaking vessel and
sternlight - you have to be MORE than 22.50 abaft
go around the stern of the vessel your overtaking
the beam to see a sternlight

(Q) A vessel Not Under Command is overtaking you, will you

(Q) You're overtaking another vessel, when can
stand-on or giveway to this vessel, he is having major
you become a crossing vessel?
problems steering?
(a) Once your well passed and clear (at least 4 (a) He is duty bound to keep clear of you, so you will stand-
miles) on with caution (BE VERY CAUTIOUS WITH THIS VL
OVERTAKING YOU) keep taking compass/radar & visual
bearings of him constantly

(Q) You're in a power-driven vl in a traffic lane & (Q) You're in a sailing vessel in a traffic lane and any vessel
any vl is overtaking you, what are you going to do? is overtaking you, what are you going to do?
(a) Stand-on with caution, maintaining your course (a) Stand-on with caution, maintaining your course and
and speed - the above vessel is constrained by her speed - any vessel overtaking any other shall keep well clear
draught and she should be going at a speed that of the vessel being overtaken
she can stop and stay in the deepest water
available

(Q) You're in a fishing vessel in a traffic lane & any (Q) In restricted visibility, your overtaking another vessel,
vl is overtaking you, what are you going to do? will you stand-on or giveway?
(a) Stand-on with Caution maintaining your course (a) There are no Stand-on Vessels in Restricted visibility -
and speed (You're using Rule 13 Overtaking just Rule 19 part (a) says
now - Rules 10 does not exist whilst being "This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another
overtaken - when the vessel overtaking you is well when navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility"
past and clear then you go back to Rule 10 Traffic In other words "No Stand-on Vessels"
Separation Scheme)
Authors tips;

If overtaking a vessel in clear or restricted visibility - take the shortest possible route and go around the vessel
being overtaken stern so you can get back onto your original course quicker as long as you have plenty of
searoom

You're a crossing vessel when coming up on a vessel at 22.5 o abaft the beam

22
You need to be MORE than 22.5o abaft the beam to be overtaking

The situation above with the International code of signals Code flag "C" has caught a lot of personnel out as it is
not in Rule 9 or Rule 34

The Captains love the overtaking situations as it has caught a lot of personnel out and they have failed because
of it, all the above situations came out of the M.C.A. Oral exam and now you have the Knowledge

What is his Fog Signal?

(all sounded on the ships whistle and at 2 minutes except anchor and aground)

-----------------------------------------------------
A power driven vessel sounds either

2 Prolonged blasts if Underway

or
1 Prolonged blast if Makingway
---------------------------------

A hampered boat sounds 1 prolonged blast followed by 2 short blasts (Morse "D")
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
A boat being towed sounds 1 prolonged blast followed by 3 short blasts (Morse "B")
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A pilot vessel can if he wishes sound his identity signal of 4 short blasts (Morse "H")
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
An oil-rig sounds 2 short blasts followed by 1 long blast (Morse "U")
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

---------------------------------------------------------------------

A vessel at anchor UNDER 100 metres sounds

A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds

at intervals not exceeding one minute
-----------------------------------------

A vessel at anchor OVER 100 metres sounds

A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds followed by

A rapid ringing on the gong for 5 seconds
at intervals not exceeding one minute
-----------------------------------------

A vessel at anchor can sound a warning signal of

1 short - 1 prolonged - 1 short blast on the ships whistle (Morse "R")
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

A vessel aground UNDER 100 metres sounds

23
 3 distinct strokes on the bell followed by
A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds followed by
3 distinct strokes on the bell
at intervals not exceeding one minute
-----------------------------------------

A vessel aground OVER 100 metres sounds

3 distinct strokes on the bell followed by

A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds followed by
3 distinct strokes on the bell followed by
A rapid ringing on the gong for 5 seconds
at intervals not exceeding one minute
-----------------------------------------

A short blast is 1 second in length

a log blast is between 4 - 6 seconds in length

the maximum distance you can hear a whistle is 2 miles

The whistles frequency lies between 70 - 700Hz

Length of vessel in metres Frequency

200 metres or more in length 70 - 200Hz

75 - 200 metres in length 130 - 350Hz
up to 75 metres in length 250 - 700Hz

Fog Signals for a Pilot Vessel

A vessel engaged in Pilotage Duties tied to the pier

This vessel is NOT Underway

Fog Signal - They may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts
on the ships whistle as and when they want too.

Remember this is only sounded in restricted visibility

24
A vessel engaged in Pilotage Duties

This vessel in UNDERWAY

Fog Signal - If Underway but not Makingway

2 Prolonged blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2 minutes
and they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts on the ships
whistle as and when they want too.

If Underway and Makingway

1 Prolonged blast and they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts
on the ships whistle as and when they want too.

A vessel engaged in Pilotage Duties

This vessel in UNDERWAY

Fog Signal - If Underway but not Makingway

2 Prolonged blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2
minutes and they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts
on the ships whistle as and when they want too.

If Underway and Makingway

1 Prolonged blast on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2
minutes and they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts
on the ships whistle as and when they want too.

A vessel engaged in Pilotage Duties

This vessel in UNDERWAY

Fog Signal - If Underway but not Makingway

2 Prolonged blasts on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2 minutes
and they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts on the ships
whistle as and when they want too.

If Underway and Makingway

1 Prolonged blast on the ships whistle at intervals not exceeding 2 minutes and
they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts on the ships whistle as
and when they want too.

A vessel engaged in Pilotage Duties probably over 50 metres at anchor

This vessel in not Underway

Fog Signal - A rapid ringing on the bell for 5 seconds

if over 100 metres then an additional
Rapid ringing on the gong for 5 seconds not exceeding 1 minute and
they may sound the identity fog signal of 4 short blasts on the ships
whistle as and when they want too.

This vessel because it's at anchor can sound Morse "R" which is short -
long - short blasts on the ships whistle to tell you your too close and
probably on collision course

25
 !!! - Caution - watch these vessels !!!

The one on the left is a pilot vessel seen from astern (Underway) or at
anchor under 50 metres in length (Not Underway)

The one on the right is a vessel engaged in fishing other that trawing
seen from astern (Makingway) or with gear out more than 150 metres
on the surface (Underway but not Makingway)

These are common mistakes for Light Recognition in the M.C.A. Oral Exam
The Captains know this and thats why you'll get these lights to test your
knowledge
Now you know them and that puts you on level terms LOL

What is his Daytime Signal?

A vessel at anchor Not Under Command A vessel Aground

Constrained by her Draught Restricted in her ability to Manoeuvre Fishing vessels

A Vessel engaged in fishing other that trawling with

Minesweeper outlying gear on the surface more than 150 metres away A Sailing vessel using her engines
from the vessel

26
 A vessel resticted in her ability to manoeuvre engaged in underwater operations

Authors tip - if the tow is over 200 metres, everything gets a black diamond, if under 200 metres then no diamonds

27
28
 A pilot vessel (Flag "Hotel") Pair trawler (Flag "Tango") I have divers down (Flag "Alpha")

Fishing vessel shooting her nets Fishing vessel hauling her nets Fishing vessel with nets fast upon an obstruction
(Flag "Zulu") (Flag "Golf") (Flag "Papa")

I Agree or Yes
Tanker or similar vessel taking in dangerous cargo Vessel on fire and has a dangerous cargo onboard (Flag
Can be used to agree to be overtaken in a narrow
must be shown whilst refuelling (Flag "Bravo") " Juilet")
channel

All daytime signals are black except the international code of signal (flags)

What are the arc of visibilities of the lights?

If it's a Working Light then the arc are 360o (N.U.C., R.I.A.M., Constrained etc)

If it's a length of the vessel masthead light (Fore & aft masthead lights) or
A length of the tow Masthead light then the arc is 225o (2 or 3 towing lights on fore mast)

The towing lights can be placed on the aft mast

Sidelights are 112.5o each

Sternlight is 135
o

29
Light Arc Colour
Masthead light 225o White
Sidelight 112.5 o
Green & Red
Sternlight 135o White or Yellow towing light
Working lights 360 o
White, red, green & yellow

(Q) Where does a masthead light start and finish at?

(a) From 22.5o abaft the beam on the port side through the stem till 22.5o abaft the beam on the starboard side

(Q) Where does a Sidelight start and finish at?

(a) From the centreline of the vl forward till 22.5o abaft the beam

Dimensions of lights

30
 Helicopter Rescue & M.C.A. Oral questions

When your in difficulties at sea for some reason, injured crewman, vessel sinking, vessel on fire, vessel
aground or for some other reason, the crews of the rescue helicopters are always at hand, it would have to be
some extreme reason before they could not come to your aid (Fog Bound)

These men risk there lives to save yours, so false alerts should be avoided at all costs, putting out a false
Mayday, could endanger someone else life.
If another vessel puts out a Mayday and you put out a false Mayday, and the helicopter comes to your vessel,
you will land off in court and heavily fined and probably given a prison sentence

The initial cost of bringing a helicopter to your vessel is high, but do not think about this cost if you need the
services of the rescue helicopter, I personnely spoke to a coastguard personnel, who told me to tell seafarers,
if you need the coastguard then ask, thats what they are there for

A rescue helicopter has an average distance out of about 250 n.m and if there is any Oilrigs en-route, then
they can stop they to refuel, making his distance even further

Information the rescue helicopter will require is as follows;

(1) Position
(2) Name and registration number of vessel
(3) Nature of distress
(4) Your speed
(5) Your course
(6) The forecast in your area
(7) What radios you have onboard
(8) Do you have distress rockets/hand held flares on your vessel

Contact with the rescue helicopter is usually on Vhf 16 and his call sign will be RESCUE HELICOPTER followed
by 3 numbers
(E.g.) Rescue Helicopter 137

High line manoeuvres

When a helicopter comes to your assistance you should do the following

(1) Listen to the captain of the helicopters orders

(2) Speed should be between 5 - 10 knots
(3) If your engaged in fishing do not haul your nets, this slows your vessel sheer
(4) Try and put the wind 30o off the port bow
(5) Once this achieved hold this course unless instructed to do otherwise

31
(6) Clear the decks of obstacles
(7) Have men ready for the high line wire
(8) Never make the wire fast to your vessel, coil it into a plastic basket
(9) Have 3-4 men pull on the wire and try and keep it tight
(10) Do not touch the wire till it earths in the sea, its full of static electricity

M.C.A. Oral exam Question

You're Skipper aboard an oil-tender and at stand-by alongside an oilrig, when you hear a Mayday from a
(Q)
helicopter who has crashed into the sea 10 miles away from you, what are you going to do?
If the weather permits, then launch your fast rescue craft (F.R.C.) and inform the oilrig that you're going
(a)
to assist the helicopter

(Q) Why are you not standing-by the oilrig, do you have to go to a Mayday?
Yes, you have to go to a Mayday, unless you're endangering your crew and vessel, or if it's to far away,
(a)
or if the On Scene Commander (O.S.C.) has stood you down because there is enough vls in the area.

While the fast rescue craft (F.R.C.) is at the helicopter, you have a major fire in the engine room and the
(Q) fire has disabled all your hydraulic system, how will you get the fast rescue craft with the casualties back
onboard your vessel?
If you have no means to winch them back onboard, then you will need to escort them back to the oilrig,
(a)
where doctors and medics will be waiting for the casualties

There is a vessel makingway coming to close to the oilrig, and you've called them up but are not getting
(Q)
any response from them, what are you going to do?
Make for the vessel and while alongside them sound your whistle several times to try and get his
(a)
attention. (5 or more short and rapid blasts which means I'm unsure of your intentions).

(Q) You are still getting no response from the other vessel, what are you going to do?
(a) Try and nudge the other vessel with your own vessel so it alerts someone on the vessel

The skipper of the other vessel calls you up, and says he is sorry but his watch had fell asleep, what are
(Q)
you going to do now?
Take note of the vessels name and port and his registration and log it in the Official log-book as well as
(a) making an entry into an I.R.F. (Incident Report Form) and send it to the M.A.I.B.(Marine Accident
Investigation Branch)

Food Hygiene - Questions associated with MGN 20 Health and Risk Assessment

You crew are all down with food poisoning and your the last one standing, you also ate what the others
(Q)
had, what,re you going to do?
Stop the vessel, put up your Not Under Command lights (N.U.C.) and put out a Mayday, if you have
(a) eaten the same food as the rest of the crew then your going to get food poisoning also, therefore there
will be no-one to command the ship (not under command)

You got your vessel back into harbour and your vessel was inspected, they found cockroaches in the
(Q)
food-lockers, what do you have to do next?
Clean out the food lockers and dispose of them safely, then disinfect the area with bleach to get rid of
(a)
any bugs the wash the area again with some anti bacterial cleaning agent

(Q) Do you have any documentation to fill up regarding this incident?

Yes, the M.A.I.B. Incident Report Form (I.R.F.) as well as the Official Log Book (inspection of food and
(a)
water)
(Q) How clean is your cook?
(a) Most cooks that I've seen are clean but tell him how your cook is

(Q) How often does he clean the galley/mess deck?

(a) It should be before and after every meal

(Q) What does he clean the dining table down with?

(a) It should be with some anti bacterial disinfectant

(Q) How often does he change his dish clothes?

(a) After he has used them,,,, after every meal

(Q) How many knives does your cook have to prepare his meals with?

32
 He should have separate knives for fresh - frozen and cooked foods, never use the same knife for
(a)
cook/frozen, frozen/fresh, cooked/fresh

(Q) Your freezer/fridge, what temperatures are they set at?

(a) Your fridge should not be set higher than +5 degrees and your freezer must be at least -18 degrees

(Q) You have a cooked chicken and a frozen piece of beef, what goes on the top shelf of the fridge?
The cooked chicken, you cannot put the frozen piece of beef in the fridge or you will get cross
(a)
contamination

(Q) So what are you going to do with the frozen piece of beef, you need to defrost it?
(a) Defrost it at room temperature for 24 hours

(Q) Why should any hold be kept clean?

(a) In case you load any food substances into it (including fishing vls)

(Q) How do you clean your holds?

(a) Best way is with a steam hose or a power hose

Footnote from Author:- While at sea we went to the aid of the personnel of the Piper Alpha Oilrig, this was a
major disaster, where 167 men lost their lives, doing a risk assessment could have prevented this from
happening, you have to keep doing risk assessments on an ongoing basis to prevent accidents like this from
happening again (HUMAN ERROR counts for most accidents)

International Safety Management

(I.S.M. Code) (M.G.N.40)

Management Starts at the top then goes to the bottom of the scale
(Climb the ladder to success)

The Company

Chief Executive
Managers
Assistant Managers
Designated Person (D.P.)

The Ship

Captain
1st Mate
2nd Mate
Chief Engineer
2nd Engineer
Safety Officer
Deck-hands
(Safety Officer can over-ride the Captain to let the D.P. ashore know about any defects/dangers on
the ship)

(Questions and Answers)

(Q) Who Issues it?

(a) M.C.A. through the Sectary of State

(Q) What is the purpose of the I.S.M Code?

(a) To Minimise accidents and pollution

(Q) When was the I.S.M. Code made manditory?

33
(a) Every Merchant Navy vl over 500grt since 1994 & every vl since 2002

(Q) Who is responsible for the safety of the crew?

(a) The skipper/Captain

(Q) Who is responsible for the running costs and repairs to the ship?

(a) The Owners

(Q) Who's signature goes on the health and safety policy on the ship?

(a) The Chief Executive of the company

(Q) What is the main cause of accidents/pollution on a ship?

(a) Human Error

(Q) Why is so important to have muster drills and debriefs on a ship?

(a) To Minimise accidents and prepare for emergencies on a ship

(Q) What pre-cautions while bunkering a ship (re-fuelling a ship)?

(a)

(i) Double up mooring ropes

(ii) Have someone man ready to shut off the fuel stop at the fuelling rig

(iii) Have someone ready to shut off the fuel stop on the ship

(iv) Have fire extinguishers handy

(v) Have an oil dispersant ready

(vi) Block freeing ports incase of spillage

(vii) Use Save-alls

(viii) Have no smoking signs (placards) posted

(ix) Make sure no hot work to be carried out

(x) No Naked flames

(xi) Make sure you have adequate ventilation

(xii) Make sure you know the amount of fuel you need and slow it down the last 100 litres

(Q) What are your responsibilities if you have a fuel spill?

(a) To alert the Coastguard and then follow the procedures in the S.O.P.E.P. manual

34
(Q) The Coastguard is responsible for oil pollution monitoring, what would happen if you had a fuel
spill?

(a) In the S.O.P.E.P. manual you would have a list of authorities you are required to report too

(Q) What is a D.P. and who regards this person as important?

(a) A Designated Person and the M.C.A regards information from him with the highest esteem

(Q) A D.P. what level of management can he approach?

(a) Straight to the top (Chief Executive)

(Q) What does a company receive when it achieves a successful audit?

(a) A D.O.C. (Document of Compliance)

(Q) What documents are required to get a D.O.C.?

(a) An S.M.S. (Safety and Management System)

(Q) How long does a D.O.C. last for?

(a) 5 years plus/minus 3 months (it also has an annual inspection)

(Q) How long does a S.M.S. last for?

(a) 5 years with an inspection every 2-3 years to keep it valid

(Q) What are the bare-bones of a S.M.S.?

(a) The Code of Safe Working Practice

(Q) What are the bare-bones of the I.S.M. code?

(a) The safety and management system (S.M.S.)

(Q) What ships does the I.S.M. apply to?

(a) From 2002 all ships over 500grt

(Q) If under 500grt do they have to use the I.S.M. code?

(a) No, they use it voluntary, but the M.C.A want everyone to use it

(Q) What is the corner stone of good safety management?

(a) Commitment from the head of the company (Chief Executive)

(Q) Who should define and document the responsibility in authority of shipboard personnel?

(a) The Company

35
(Q) What document will the company supply to all their ships under its management?

(a) The Safety and Management manual (Health & Safety Policy)

(Q) How do you report any accident(s) and non-conformities?

(a) By reporting to the skipper/safety officer, to the D.P. ashore or by V.H.F. to the M.C.A. /M.A.I.B.
on an I.R.F. as well as to the company

(Q) Who is responsible for verifying compliance with the I.S.M. code ashore and afloat?

(a) M.C.A.

(Q) What size of ships should voluntarily use the I.S.M. code?

(a) Ships between 150grt and 500grt

(Q) What two statutory instruments do you require for an application for an I.S.M. code?

(a) D.O.C. & S.M.C. (Document of Compliance & Safety Management Certificate)

(Q) When will a D.O.C. be issued?

(a) When a company demonstrates plans to implement a S.M.S. meeting the full requirements of
the code

(Q) What will be issued to each ship after a successful onboard audit of the S.M.S.?

(a) An S.M.C.

(Q) What is the "Company"?

(a) Anyone who has assumed the responsibility of the operation of the ship and taken the
responsibility from the ship owner

(Q) What should be the safety management objectives of the company?

(a)

(i) Provide safe ship operations and safe working practice

(ii) Do a risk assessment on the vessel
(iii) Keep improving safety standards and skills of personnel onboard and onshore (Musters and
drills)

(Q) What should the safety management system ensure?

(a) Its should ensure compliance with rules/regs and all codes/guidelines and standards
recommended by I.M.O. /M.C.A. and classification societies

(Q) What should a company do to implement/maintain and develop an S.M.S.?

(a)

(i) A safety and environmental policy

(ii) Instruction on procedures for safe operation of ships and protection of the environment
(iii) Defined levels of authority and lines of communication between shore/ship personnel

36
(iv) Reporting procedures for accidents and defects of the ship
(v) Musters and drills
(vi) Internal audits

(Q) What is the master's responsibility?

(a)

(i) Carrying out the safety and pollution control policy of the company
(ii) The master has the authority to take any steps and issue any orders for the preservation of live
and safety of the ship

(Q) What should provide the required training in support of the S.M.S.?

(a) The Company

(Q) Who is responsible for correcting defects on a ship?

(a) The company

(Q) What action is taken to review the companies/ships S.M.S.?

(a) Internal audits

(Q) Where are the D.O.C. / S.M.C. kept at?

(a) Its kept onboard the vessel

(Q) Does the M.C.A. have power to impound a ship if it has defects or does not have a D.O.C.?

(a) Yes the ship can be impounded for both

(viii) Have no smoking signs (placards) posted

(ix) Make sure no hot work to be carried out

(x) No Naked flames

(xi) Make sure you have adequate ventilation

(xii) Make sure you know the amount of fuel you need and slow it down the last 100 litres

(Q) What are your responsibilities if you have a fuel spill?

(a) To alert the Coastguard and then follow the procedures in the S.O.P.E.P. manual

(Q) The Coastguard is responsible for oil pollution monitoring, what would happen if you had a fuel
spill?

(a) In the S.O.P.E.P. manual you would have a list of authorities you are required to report too

(Q) What is a D.P. and who regards this person as important?

(a) A Designated Person and the M.C.A regards information from him with the highest esteem

(Q) A D.P. what level of management can he approach?

37
(a) Straight to the top (Chief Executive)

(Q) What does a company receive when it achieves a successful audit?

(a) A D.O.C. (Document of Compliance)

(Q) What documents are required to get a D.O.C.?

(a) An S.M.S. (Safety and Management System)

(Q) How long does a D.O.C. last for?

(a) 5 years plus/minus 3 months (it also has an annual inspection)

(Q) How long does a S.M.S. last for?

(a) 5 years with an inspection every 2-3 years to keep it valid

(Q) What are the bare-bones of a S.M.S.?

(a) The Code of Safe Working Practice

(Q) What are the are-bones of the I.S.M. code?

(a) The safety and management system (S.M.S.)

(Q) What ships does the I.S.M. apply to?

(a) From 2002 all ships over 500grt

(Q) If under 500grt do they have to use the I.S.M. code?

(a) No, they use it voluntary, but the M.C.A want everyone to use it

(Q) What is the corner stone of good safety management?

(a) Commitment from the head of the company (Chief Executive)

(Q) Who should define and document the responsibility in authority of shipboard personnel?

(a) The Company

(Q) What document will the company supply to all their ships under its management?

(a) The Safety and Management manual (Health & Safety Policy)

(Q) How do you report any accident(s) and non-conformities?

(a) By reporting to the skipper/safety officer, to the D.P. ashore or by V.H.F. to the M.C.A. /M.A.I.B.
on an I.R.F. as well as to the company

38
(Q) Who is responsible for verifying compliance with the I.S.M. code ashore and afloat?

(a) M.C.A.

(Q) What size of ships should voluntarily use the I.S.M. code?

(a) Ships between 150grt and 500grt

(Q) What two statutory instruments do you require for an application for an I.S.M. code?

(a) D.O.C. & S.M.C. (Document of Compliance & Safety Management Certificate)

(Q) When will a D.O.C. be issued?

(a) When a company demonstrates plans to implement a S.M.S. meeting the full requirements of
the code

(Q) What will be issued to each ship after a successful onboard audit of the S.M.S.?

(a) An S.M.C.

(Q) What is the "Company"?

(a) Anyone who has assumed the responsibility of the operation of the ship and taken the
responsibility from the ship owner

(Q) What should be the safety management objectives of the company?

(a)

(i) Provide safe ship operations and safe working practice

(ii) Do a risk assessment on the vessel
(iii) Keep improving safety standards and skills of personnel onboard and onshore (Musters and
drills)

(Q) What should the safety management system ensure?

(a) Its should ensure compliance with rules/regs and all codes/guidelines and standards
recommended by I.M.O. /M.C.A. and classification societies

(Q) What should a company do to implement/maintain and develop an S.M.S.?

(a)

(i) A safety and environmental policy

(ii) Instruction on procedures for safe operation of ships and protection of the environment
(iii) Defined levels of authority and lines of communication between shore/ship personnel
(iv) Reporting procedures for accidents and defects of the ship
(v) Musters and drills
(vi) Internal audits

(Q) What is the master's responsibility?

(a)

(i) Carrying out the safety and pollution control policy of the company
(ii) The master has the authority to take any steps and issue any orders for the preservation of live

39
and safety of the ship

(Q) What should provide the required training in support of the S.M.S.?

(a) The Company

(Q) Who is responsible for correcting defects on a ship?

(a) The company

(Q) What action is taken to review the companies/ships S.M.S.?

(a) Internal audits

(Q) Where are the D.O.C. / S.M.C. kept at?

(a) Its kept onboard the vessel

(Q) Does the M.C.A. have power to impound a ship if it has defects or does not have a D.O.C.?

(a) Yes the ship can be impounded for both

40