Rule Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility

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1 Section III Rule Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility (a) This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility. (b) Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven vessel shall have her engines ready for immediate manoeuvre. (c) Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility when complying with the Rules of section I of this part. (d) A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel shall determine if a close-quarters situation is developing and/or risk of collision exists. If so, she shall take avoiding action in ample time, provided that when such action consists of an alteration of course, so far as possible the following shall be avoided: 1

2 in restricted visibility (i) an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken; (ii) an alteration of course towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam (e) Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a closequarters situation with another vessel forward of her beam, shall reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course. She shall if necessary take all her way off and in any event navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision is over. 2

3 in restricted visibility 3

4 in restricted visibility Application Rule 19 (a) Rule 19 applies: To all vessels Power-driven vessels Sailing vessels Etc. Not in sight of one another In or near an area of restricted visibility 4

5 in restricted visibility Not in sight of one another Rule 19 (a) Vessels are deemed not to be in sight of one another only when one cannot be observed visually from the other (See Rule 3 (k)) Observing a vessel on radar or hearing one another through sound signals is excluded 5

6 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) Rule 19 applies to vessels: IN an area of restricted visibility OR NEAR an area of restricted visibility Wether in or near an area of restricted visibility, these vessels must give the sound signals of Rule 35 6

7 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) NEAR an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 applies to vessels: - approaching an area of restricted visibility or - having such an area on one side 7

in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) In sight of one another When two vessels navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility

8 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) In sight of one another When two vessels navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility come in sight of one another, they must comply with the Rules of Section II The manoeuvring and warning signals of Rule 34 are only given when vessels are in sight of one another 8

9 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) In sight of one another 9

approaching an area of restricted visibility: Good seamanship requires to have a

10 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) Near an area of restricted visibility all precautions must be taken when approaching an area of restricted visibility: Good seamanship requires to have a moderate speed, so as to approach that place under proper control. Area of tropical rain squall 10

11 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) All vessels must observe the same safety measures near, as well as within an area of restricted visibility Good seamanship requires to have a moderate speed, so as to approach such an area with proper control 11

three miles) taking into account : State of the sea Traffic density Vessel s

12 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) When is visibility restricted Take vessel s sidelights as a criterion (min. three miles) taking into account : State of the sea Traffic density Vessel s manoeuvring characteristics Efficiency of radar equipment Other electronic aids (AIS, ) 12

in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) Means to assess visibility Observe on the radar objects That are just coming in sight That are just going out of sight

13 in restricted visibility In or near an area of restricted visibility Rule 19 (a) Means to assess visibility Observe on the radar objects That are just coming in sight That are just going out of sight Observe objects around the vessel Consider transparency of the atmosphere At night, observe if lights show an aura The visibility can be assessed only in the direction of the object and it may quickly deteriorate or improve 13

14 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) A safe speed is a speed adapted to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility Rule 6 also deals with safe speed and applies to every vessel in any condition of visibility 14

Safe speed Rule 19 - Conduct of vessels Rule 19 (b) Factors which determine maintaining a safe speed Open sea with little or no traffic In narrow waters with high traffic density At termination of

15 Safe speed Rule 19 - Conduct of vessels Rule 19 (b) Factors which determine maintaining a safe speed Open sea with little or no traffic In narrow waters with high traffic density At termination of a traffic separation scheme or not Pilot vessel in vicinity In area with fishing vessels, pleasure craft, ice, etc. Vessels at anchor Manoeuvring characteristics of own vessel Type of radar used 15

by sailing vessels Navigate at a safe speed If

16 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) The term Safe speed also applies to sailing vessels Precautionary measurers by sailing vessels Navigate at a safe speed If necessary, lower sails Keep crew stand-by to handle sails 16

a vessel to be stopped within half the range of visibility Why half the range?

17 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) Safe speed versus Moderate speed In the 1960 Regulations, the term moderate speed was used instead of safe speed The expression moderate speed meant a speed which would enable a vessel to be stopped within half the range of visibility Why half the range? Because the other object is most probably also a moving vessel This definition may sometimes still be used by the courts 17

Safe speed Rule 19 (b) A reduction of speed is not always necessary when approaching a

last long a vessel may sometimes maintain her speed The radar usually shows the extent

area However, small craft may not be detected and the speed must be reduced if the

18 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) A reduction of speed is not always necessary when approaching a sudden rainy squall or similar weather change If the weather change is not expected to last long a vessel may sometimes maintain her speed The radar usually shows the extent and movement of a squall and should detect large vessels within and beyond the squall area However, small craft may not be detected and the speed must be reduced if the squall lasts for more than a few minutes. Do not forget to give the prescribed fog signals 18

engines are ready for an immediate manoeuvre In congested waters with dense fog: a vessel is never

19 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) OPEN SEA versus CONGESTED WATERS In the open sea: with little traffic, a relatively high speed may be maintained provided: a) proper radar watch is being kept, and b) the engines are ready for an immediate manoeuvre In congested waters with dense fog: a vessel is never justified in proceeding at high speed, particularly if small craft and/or ice are likely to be encountered 19

maintain schedules The attitude of some owners and marine

20 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) Some masters are reluctant to reduce speed in restricted visibility because of the pressure to maintain schedules The attitude of some owners and marine superintendents is often irresponsible and should, by all means, be disapproved 20

Safe speed Rule 19 (b) The attitude of some owners Lord Justice Sellers: A primary concern of a shipowner must be safety of life at sea: this also requires safe navigation.

21 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) The attitude of some owners Lord Justice Sellers: A primary concern of a shipowner must be safety of life at sea: this also requires safe navigation. Excessive speed in fog is a grave breach of duty. In so far as high speed is encouraged by radar, the installation of radar requires particular vigilance of owners. Shipowners must ensure that shipmasters use their radar in a proper manner 21

Safe speed Rule 19 (b) Engines stand-by In restricted visibility, a powerdriven vessel is required to have her engines ready for immediate manœuvre

22 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) Engines stand-by In restricted visibility, a powerdriven vessel is required to have her engines ready for immediate manœuvre This applies even in the open ocean For many vessels, the stand-by position corresponds to full manoeuvring speed and involves some reduction of speed 22

manœuvre: The engines should be given as much notice as

23 Safe speed Rule 19 (b) Engines stand-by It may take several minutes to prepare the engines for immediate manœuvre: The engines should be given as much notice as possible when it seems likely that the visibility will become restricted 23

Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Section I deals with the conduct of vessels in any conditions of visibility Relevant Rules of Section I Maintain a proper look-out (Rule 5) Proceed

24 Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Section I deals with the conduct of vessels in any conditions of visibility Relevant Rules of Section I Maintain a proper look-out (Rule 5) Proceed at a safe speed (Rule 6) Use all available means to determine if risk of collision exists (Rule 7) Take proper avoiding action (Rule 8) Use radar correctly (Rule 7(b)) Use manoeuvring capabilities of vessel efficiently Navigate with caution in narrow channels and fairways and traffic separation schemes (Rules 9 and 10) For details see the relevant Rules of Section I of this Presentation 24

to have a man posted on look-out duty by day as well as at

25 Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Rule 5: Look-out In order to keep a good look-out it is necessary: to have a man posted on look-out duty by day as well as at night to keep a continuous radar watch by a competent person 25

26 Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Rule 5: Look-out Keep a continuous radar watch by a competent person 26

27 Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Rule 6: Safe speed The use of radar is essential to determine the existence of a risk of collision with a vessel detected but not in sight 27

of course are necessary to avoid collision with a

to be readily apparent on the other vessel s radar

visual sight the effectiveness of avoiding action must

28 Compliance with the Rules of Section I Rule 19 (c) Rule 7: Risk of Collision More substantial alterations of course are necessary to avoid collision with a vessel not in sight The manœuvres must be large enough to be readily apparent on the other vessel s radar screen, (see Rule 8(b)) If the other vessel is not in visual sight the effectiveness of avoiding action must be carefully and continuously checked by radar observations 28

Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Rule 19(d)

the presence of another vessel shall determine if a

collision exists Detection by radar alone, means: a)

29 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Rule 19(d) states that a vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel shall determine if a closequarters situation is developing and/or risk of collision exists Detection by radar alone, means: a) not seeing her visually b) not hearing her fog signals 29

signals Section III, Rule 19 applies When in sight: Rules of Section

30 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) HENCE When detection by radar alone, without: a) seeing the vessel visually b) hearing her fog signals Section III, Rule 19 applies When in sight: Rules of Section II apply When a fog signal is heard + risk of collision: Rule 19(e) applies 30

signal: the vessel will be maximum 2 miles away and if forward of the beam, she will most probably be in a close-quarters situation and if risk of collision exists, Rule 19 (e) will apply.

31 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Important remark Rule 19 is composed of two important parts 1. Because sound signals are normally heard up to 2 miles for large vessels and only 0,5 miles for very small vessels (see Annex III, Technical details of sound signal appliances), when hearing a fog signal: the vessel will be maximum 2 miles away and if forward of the beam, she will most probably be in a close-quarters situation and if risk of collision exists, Rule 19 (e) will apply. The vessel will, of course, also be seen on the radar 2. On the other hand, if a vessel is not heard and only detected on the radar she will most probably be further than 2 miles and not be in a close quarters situation or represent a risk of collision (yet). Rule 19(d) applies. Experience has shown that masters or OOW are often reluctant to give sound signals when they should do so 31

32 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Close-quarters situation The distance of a close quarters situation is difficult to measure in miles. It depends upon a number of factors: - Size and manoeuvring characteristics of the vessels - The speed of the vessels - The traffic density - Experience and judgement of the Master and/of the OOW - Etc. Distances of 2 to 3 miles are usually suggested, being the range of visibility of the sidelights or the range of audibility of large vessels. According the local circumstances distances of less than 2 miles may be sufficient (slow speed, overtaking, passing clearly astern, etc. y 32

Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Determine

systematic observation (ARPA) must be carried

33 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Determine if risk of collision exists Proper use of radar is required to obtain early warning of risk of collision Radar plotting or equivalent systematic observation (ARPA) must be carried out Assumptions must not be based on scanty informations 33

34 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Do not make assumptions based on scanty informations When using a 12 mile radar range, radar information must be assessed and substantial action must be taken before the target reaches the 4 miles range 34

35 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Avoiding actions A substantial alteration of course and/or speed in ample time Avoid altering course to port, so far as possible, for a vessel forward of the beam (except for a vessel being overtaken) Altering course towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam, so far as possible Keep in mind the dual action situation with an alteration of course to starboard for both vessels 35

Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Examples All vessels must comply with Rule 19(d) There is no stand-on vessel in a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels Both vessels are give-way

36 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) Examples All vessels must comply with Rule 19(d) There is no stand-on vessel in a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels Both vessels are give-way vessels A vessel being overtaken may not keep her course and speed Rule 18 (Responsabilities between vessels) does not apply between vessels not in sight of one another No distinction is made between power-driven vessels and sailing vessels Etc. 36

37 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) When visibility is restricted, avoiding action must be taken earlier, but, always after full assessment of the situation and, not based on scanty radar information 37

38 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) In restricted visibility, alterations of course and/or speed shall be substantial in order to be readily apparent to a vessel observing by radar (see also Rule 8 (b)). They must be taken in ample time 38

39 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) In restricted visibility, an alteration of course should be: at least 30 preferably 60 to 90 to be readily apparent to another ship observing by radar 39

Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) (i) Avoid an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken; It is thus mandatory to

40 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) (i) Avoid an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken; It is thus mandatory to alter course to starboard in meeting or crossing situations between vessels not in sight of one another (ii) Avoid an alteration of course toward a vessel abeam or abaft the beam. 40

in both directions In restricted visibility, Rule 13 Overtaking does not apply.

41 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) An alteration of course in either direction is permitted when a vessel approaches from astern In this particular overtaking situation both ships may alter course in both directions In restricted visibility, Rule 13 Overtaking does not apply. If risk of collision exists, both vessels (not in sight of one another) must take avoiding action according to Rule 19 41

Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) The avoiding action can also consist in a change of speed: - as an alternative to a course alteration - or in association with a course alteration A

42 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) The avoiding action can also consist in a change of speed: - as an alternative to a course alteration - or in association with a course alteration A change of speed is generally more effective for a vessel approaching from near the beam In a meeting situation: a) it has little effect on the CPA b) It gives more time for assessment 42

43 Detection by radar alone Rule 19 (d) 43

Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) When a fog signal is heard forward of the beam and risk of collision exists, Rule 19 (e) applies to every vessel Even if the vessel has detected

44 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) When a fog signal is heard forward of the beam and risk of collision exists, Rule 19 (e) applies to every vessel Even if the vessel has detected the other one on her radar, the fact that a fog signal is heard and that a risk of collision still exists means: a) that the distance between the two vessels is under the close-quarters limit (between two to three miles), b) that the vessel (and/or your own vessel) has not taken avoiding action in due time. The vessels are then required by Rule 19 (e) to reduce their speed to the bare steerage way 44

Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) It is deceiving and very dangerous to notice that some OOW are reluctant to give sound signals in restricted as well as in clear visibility 45

45 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) It is deceiving and very dangerous to notice that some OOW are reluctant to give sound signals in restricted as well as in clear visibility 45 Never wait too long to take avoiding action. Do not wait until the other ship is so close that you can hear her fog signal Always keep in mind that some ships may not give the prescribed fog signals, especially when they only rely on their radar

46 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) In restricted visibility always post a look-out man: On the forecastle head of the ship or, if this appears too dangerous like in very thick fog, Outside on the bridge Usually, when the look-out hears the fog signal of another vessel, there is risk of collision 46

ship: - When crossing astern of a vessel being overtaken - When vessels

47 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) The sound signal of another ship may be heard while no risk of collision exists with that ship: - When crossing astern of a vessel being overtaken - When vessels meet in opposite directions on their correct sides of a narrow channel 47

Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) The direction and distance of sound signals cannot be relied upon, especially in foggy conditions.

48 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) The direction and distance of sound signals cannot be relied upon, especially in foggy conditions. Hence, the direction of fog signals can be misleading When a fog signal is heard fine on the bow, it is nearly impossible to determine whether it comes from the starboard or the portside When a fog signal is heard forward of the beam, the engines should be immediately stopped or speed reduced, unless it has been determined that there is no risk of collision. 48

49 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) A lookout posted forward, especially on larger vessels, may be able to hear a fog signal before it can be heard from the bridge 49

50 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Radar ranges and bearings and/or a good plotting system (ARPA) are the best, if not the only way, to determine if risk of collision exists 50

51 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Action to be taken: Reduce speed to the minimum or, Take all way off Navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision is over 51

52 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Advantages of taking all way off Better assessment of situation Less noise with engines stopped Engines are more rapidly reversed Reduced damage in case of collision In case of collision the effect is less serious if the impact is taken forward of the vessel The effect is greater when struck at a broad angle near the mid lenght 52

Masters, are reluctant, under the Owner s pressure, to slow down in fog and continue to sail at full speed

53 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) In restricted visibility, the proper use of the radar is maybe the only way to justify proceeding at a speed greater than bare steerage-way Sadly enough, too many Masters, are reluctant, under the Owner s pressure, to slow down in fog and continue to sail at full speed relying blindly on their radar(s) Under any pretext this attitude must be condemned and be considered as bad seamanship 53

54 Fog signal apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Taking all way off is necessary: When hearing apparently forward of the beam a fog signal close by When there is doubt as to which side the approaching vessel may pass by When is heard forward of the beam When fog signals are heard nearer and nearer to the bow When the fog signal is heard of a vessel at anchor or a vessel aground When hearing the fog signal of a vessel of less than 12 metres For a head-on vessel seen at close proximity on radar plotting 54

55 Rule Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility Navigate with extreme caution means: Sound prescribed sound signals frequently Try to establish whether the intensity of fog signals is decreasing or increasing Try to keep vessel on course and try to establish whether or not the direction of the signals is altering Assess the situation and its development on the radar 55

Close-quarters situation apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) When a close-quarters situation forward of the beam cannot be avoided: Reduce speed to bare steerage way or Stop the

56 Close-quarters situation apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) When a close-quarters situation forward of the beam cannot be avoided: Reduce speed to bare steerage way or Stop the engines or, Take all way off by putting engines astern The greater the speed, the sooner the speed should be reduced Fog signals are easier to hear and to follow when the engines are stopped 56

Close-quarters situation apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Every vessel includes anchored vessels If the fog signal of a vessel at anchor is

57 Close-quarters situation apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Every vessel includes anchored vessels If the fog signal of a vessel at anchor is heard apparently forward of the beam, and the vessel has not been detected by radar, the engines must be stopped at once and the way taken off if necessary 57

58 Close-quarters situation apparently forward of the beam Rule 19 (e) Risk of collision is assumed to be past: When the intensity of the fog signal grows weaker When it moves abaft the beam 58

Rule 17 - Action by stand-on vessel

Rule 17 - Action by stand-on vessel (a) (i) Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way the other shall keep her course and speed. (ii) The latter vessel may however take action to avoid collision by her manoeuvre alone, as soon as