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RoR

Part A – General Rules

Rule1 – Application
Rule2 – Responsibility
Rule3 – General Definitions

Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules

Section 1 – Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility

Rule4 – Application
Rule5 – Lookout
Rule6 – Safe Speed
Rule7 – Risk of Collision
Rule8 – Action to Avoid Collision
Rule9 – Narrow Channel
Rule10 – Traffic Separation Schemes

Section 2 – Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rule11 – Application
Rule12 – Sailing Vessels
Rule13 – Overtaking
Rule14 – Head on Situation
Rule15 – Crossing Situation
Rule16 – Actions by Giveway Vessel
Rule17 – Actions by Standon Vessel
Rule18 – Responsibility Between Vessels

Section 3 – Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

Rule19 – Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

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Part C - Lights and Shapes

Rule20 – Application
Rule21 – Definition
Rule22 – Visibility of Lights
Rule23 – Power Driven Vessels Underway
Rule24 – Towing and Pushing
Rule25 – Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
Rule26 – Fishing Vessels
Rule27 – Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their Ability to Manoeuvre
Rule28 - Vessels Constrained by Their Draft
Rule29 - Pilot Vessels
Rule30 - Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
Rule31 - Seaplanes

Part D- Sounds and Light Signals

Rule32 – Definitions
Rule33 – Equipment for Sound Signals
Rule34 – Manoeuvering and Warning Signals
Rule35 – Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
Rule36 – Signals to Attract Attention
Rule37 – Distress Signals

Part- E – Exemptions

Rule38- Exemptions

Part – F – Verification of Compliance

Rule39 – Definitions
Rule40 – Application
Rule41 - Verification of Compliance

Annexes

Annex1 – Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes

Annex2 – Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels Fishing in Close Proximity
Annex3 - Technical Details of Sound Signals Appliances
Annex5 - Distress Signals

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Part – A – General

Rule – 1 – Application

 These rules apply to all vessels on the high seas and in all waters connected to the high seas,
navigable by sea going vessels.

 Nothing in these rules shall interfere with rules made by an appropriate authority for
Roadsteads,
Rivers,
Lakes,
Harbours,
Or Inland Waterways
Connected to the high seas and navigable by seagoing vessels.
Such special rules shall closely conform with these rules.

 Nothing in these rules shall interfere with special rules made by the government of any state with respect to

Additional Stations or signal lights,

Shapes or Whistle Signals
For ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy

Or with respect to
Additional Stations or signal lights,
Or Shapes
For fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet.

These
Additional Stations or signal lights,
Shapes or Whistle Signals
Shall not be mistaken for any
Light, shape or signal authorized elsewhere under these rules.

 Traffic Separation Schemes may be adopted by the organisation for the purpose of these rules.

 Whenever the government shall have determined that a vessel of special construction or purpose cannot fully
comply with the provisions of any of these rules with respect to the
Number,
Position,
Range and arc of visibility of lights and shapes,
And the characteristics and disposition of sound signaling appliances.
Such vessels shall comply with such other provisions as her government shall have determined to be the closest
possible compliance with these rules.

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Rule-2-Responsibility

 Nothing in these rules shall exonerate

the owner or the vessel or master or the crew
from the consequences of any neglect to comply with these rules
or of any neglect of any precautions required by the ordinary practice of seamen
or by the special circumstances of the case.

 In construing and complying with these rules due regard shall be given to construing – interpret/understand
all dangers of navigation and collision
and to the limitations of the vessels involved
which may make a departure from these rules
to avoid immediate danger.

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Rule-3-General Definitions

 The word vessel includes every description of water craft including

 non displacement crafts,
WIG crafts
and seaplanes,
used or capable of being used
as a means of transportation on water.

 The term power driven vessel means any vessel propelled by machinery.

 The term sailing vessel means any vessel under sail

provided that
propelling machinery
if fitted
is not being used.

 The term vessel engaged in fishing means

any vessel fishing with nets, lines, trawls
or other fishing apparatus which restricts maneuverability,
but does not include a vessel fishing with
trawling lines or other fishing apparatus
that do not restrict maneuverability.

 The word seaplane includes any aircraft designed to manoeuver on the water.

 The term vessel not under command means a vessel

which through
some exceptional circumstances
is unable to manoeuver as required by these rules
and is therefore unable to keepout of the way of another vessel.

 The term vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuver means a vessel which
from the nature of her work
is restricted in her ability to manoeuver as required by these rules
and therefore is unable to keepout of the way of another vessel.

The term vessels restricted in their ability to manoeuvre shall include but not limited to –

a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a navigational mark, submarine cable or pipeline.

a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or underwater operations.

a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, provisions or cargo while underway.

a vessel engaged in launching or recovery of an aircraft

a vessel engaged in mine clearance operations.

a vessel engaged in towing operations which severely restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability to
deviate from their course.

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 The term vessel constrained by her draft means a power driven vessel which
because of her draft in relation to the available depth and width of navigable waters
is severely restricted in her ability to deviate from the course she is following.

 The word underway means that a vessel is not at anchor or made fast to the shore or aground.

 The words length and breadth of a vessel means

her length overall and greatest breadth.

⓫ Vessels shall be deemed to be insight of one another only when one can be visually observed from the other.

⓬ The term restricted visibility means any condition in which visibility is restricted by
fog,
mist,
falling snow,
heavy rainstorms,
sandstorms,
or any other similar causes.

⓭ The term wing in ground craft means

a multimodal craft
which in its main operational mode,
flies in close proximity to the surface
by utilizing surface effect action.

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Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules

Section I – Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility

Rule 4 – Application

Rules in this section apply in any condition of visibility.

Rule 5 – Lookout

Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout

by sight and hearing as well as all available means
in the prevailing circumstances and conditions
as to make a full appraisal of the situation
and of risk of collision.

Rule 6 – Safe Speed

Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed

so that she can take proper action to avoid collision
and be stopped within a distance appropriate
in the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

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

By all vessels -

state of visibility.
traffic density.
maneuverability of the vessel that is turning circle and stopping distance.
presence of background light and back scatter.
state of wind, sea, current and navigation hazards.
draft in relation to the depth.

By vessels with radar -

characteristics efficiency and limitations of the radar.

constrains imposed by the range scale.
effect on radar detection by sources of interferences.
possibility that small vessels, ice, and other objects may not be detected at an adequate range.
number, location and movement of vessels detected by the radar.
the more exact assessment of visibility that may be possible with the radar.

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Rule 7 – Risk of Collision

 Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions to
determine if risk of collision exists.
If there is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.

 Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational

including long range scanning to obtain early warning of risk of collision
and radar plotting or equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.

 Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information specially on scanty radar information.

 In determining if risk of collision exists the following shall be among those taken into account.

⓵ Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not
appreciably change.

⓶ Such risk may still exist with an appreciable change in compass bearing,
when approaching a large vessel
or when approaching a tow
or when approaching a vessel at a close range.

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Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision

 Any action to avoid collision shall be

positive
made in ample time
and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship.

 Any alteration of course and or speed to avoid collision shall be

large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel
observing visually or by radar
a succession of small alterations of course and or speed should be avoided.

 If there is sufficient sea room alteration of course alone may be the most effective action
to avoid a close quarters situation
provided that
it is made in good time
is substantial
and does not result in another close quarters situation.

 Action to avoid collision with another vessel shall

result in passing in a safe distance.
Effectiveness of the action shall be monitored until the other vessel is finally pas and clear.

 If necessary
to avoid collision
or allow more time to assess the situation
a vessel may slacken her speed
or take all her way off
by stopping
or reversing her propulsion.

 A vessel which is required not to impede

the passage or safe passage
of another vessel
shall take early action to allow sufficient sea room
for the safe passage of the other vessel.

 A vessel which is required not to impede

the passage or safe passage
of another vessel
is not relieved of the obligation
to take action to avoid collision
and keep clear
if approaching the other vessel
as to involve in a risk of collision.

 A vessel of who’s the passage is not to be impeded

shall also take action to avoid collision and keep clear
when the two vessels are approaching as to involve in a risk of collision.

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Rule 9 – Narrow Channels

 A vessel proceeding in a narrow channel or fairway

shall keep to the outer limit of the starboard side
as far as possible.

 A vessel less than 20m in length

or a sailing vessel
shall not impede
the passage of a vessel
which can safely navigate
only within the limits of a narrow channel or fairway.

 A vessel engaged in fishing

shall not impede
the passage of any vessel proceeding in a
narrow channel or fairway.

 A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway

if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel
which can safely navigate
only within the limits of a narrow channel or fairway.
If in doubt of the intentions of the crossing vessel the other vessel shall sound the doubt signal which is
atleast 5 short and rapid blasts (…..)

 In a narrow channel or fairway overtaking can take place

only if the vessel to be overtaken permits safe passage.
The vessel intending to overtake shall indicate her intention by sounding the prescribed signals,
which is
2 prolonged blasts followed by 1 short blast ( _ _ . ) ( G )
which means I intend to overtake you on your starboard side.
or
2 prolonged blasts followed by 2 short blasts ( _ _ . . ) ( Z )
which means I intend to overtake you on your port side.
The vessel to be overtaken if in agreement shall sound
1 prolonged blast 1 short blast 1 prolonged blast 1 short blast ( _ . _ . ) (C)
and take actions to permit safe passing.
If in doubt shall sound the doubt signal which is
atleast 5 short and rapid blasts (…..)

 A vessel nearing a bend or an area obscured

in a narrow channel or fairway
shall navigate with alertness and caution and
shall sound
1 prolonged blast ( _ )
and answered also with
1 prolonged blast ( _ )
by the approaching vessel.

 Any vessel shall avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.

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Rule 10 – Traffic Separation Schemes

 This rule applies in traffic separation schemes adopted by the organization

and does not relieve any vessel under the obligation of any other rule.

 A vessel using a traffic separation scheme shall

Proceed in the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic flow.

Keep clear of the traffic separation line or traffic separation zone as far as practicable.

Normally join or leave a traffic lane at the termination

but when joining and leaving from the side
shall do at a small angle to the general direction of traffic flow.

 A vessel shall avoid crossing a traffic lane but if obliged shall cross on a heading at right angles to the general
direction of traffic flow as far as practicable.

 A vessel shall not use the inshore traffic zone when she can safely use the appropriate traffic lane.
However a vessel of less than 20m in length, a sailing vessel and a vessel engaged in fishing may use the inshore
traffic zone.

 A vessel may use the inshore traffic zone when en route to or from a
port
offshore installation
structure
pilot station
or any other place
situated within the inshore traffic zone
or to avoid immediate danger.

 A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or leaving a lane shall not normally enter a
separation zone or cross a traffic separation line except,
In case of an emergency to avoid immediate danger
or to engage in fishing within a separation zone.

 A vessel navigating near the termination shall navigate with particular caution.
 A vessel shall avoid anchoring in a traffic separation scheme or near its termination.
 A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme shall avoid it by a wide margin.

 A vessel of less than 20m in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the safe passage of a power driven
vessel following a traffic lane.
⓫ A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any vessel following a traffic lane.

⓬ A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuver when engaged in an operation for maintenance of safety of
navigation in a traffic separation scheme is exempted from complying with this rule to the extent necessary to
carry out the operation.

⓭ A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuver when engaged in an operation for laying, servicing or picking up
of a submarine cable within a traffic separation scheme is exempted from complying with this rule to the extent
necessary to carry out the operation.

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Section II – Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rule 11 – Application

Rules in this section applies to vessels in sight of one another

Rule 12-Sailing Vessels

 When two sailing vessels are approaching one another as to involve in a risk of collision one of them shall
keep out of the of the other vessel as follows

When the wind is on a different side the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of
the way of the other vessel.

When the wind is on the same side the vessel on the windward shall keep out of the way of the other
vessel.

 If the vessel on the port side see a vessel on the windward side and cannot determine if the other vessel has
the wind on port or star, she shall keep out of the way.

 The windward side shall be the side opposite to which the mainsail is carried.
In case of a square rigged vessel it is the side opposite to which the largest fore and aft sail is carried.

Rule 13-Overtaking

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

 A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up from a direction of more than 22.5 degrees abaft
her beam that is at night she would be able to see only the sternlight of the vessel but not any of the sidelights.

 When a vessel is in doubt whether she is overtaking she shall assume that it is the case and act accordingly.

 Any subsequent alteration of bearing between the two vessels shall not make the overtaking vessel a crossing
vessel and shall not relieve her of the duty of keeping clear of the vessel overtaken until she is finally past and
clear.

Rule 14-Head On

 When two power driven vessels are

approaching on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses
as to involve in a risk of collision
each shall alter her course to star and pass on the port of the other vessel.

 Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other vessel
ahead or nearly ahead
at night she could see
the masthead lights inline or nearly inline and or both sidelights.
by day she could see the corresponding aspect of the other vessel.

 When a vessel is in doubt whether she is in a headon situation exists she shall assume that it is the case and
act accordingly.

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Rule 15-Crossing

When two power driven vessels are crossing

as to involve in a risk of collision
the vessel which has the other on her star shall keep out of the way
and shall avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.

Rule 16-Action by Giveway Vessel

Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel shall as far as possible take early and
substantial action to keep well clear.

Rule 17-Action by Standon vessel

 Where one vessel is to keep out of the way the other shall maintain her course and speed.

The standon vessel may however take action to avoid collision by her manoeuver alone as soon as it
becomes apparent that the vessel which is required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action.

 When the standon vessel finds herself so close that the collision cannot be avoided by the action of the
giveway vessel alone the standon vessel shall take action to avoid collision.

 A power driven which is a stand on vessel taking action in a crossing situation

as the giveway vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid collision
shall not alter course to port for a vessel on her port.

 This rule does not relieve the giveway vessel of her obligation to keep clear.

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Rule 18-Responsibilities Between Vessels

Except where rule 9 10 and 13 otherwise require.

 A Power Driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of

a vessel Not Under Command
a vessel Restricted in her Ability to Manoeuver
a vessel Engaged in Fishing
a vessel Sailing vessel

 A Sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of

a vessel Not Under Command
a vessel Restricted in her Ability to Manoeuver
a vessel Engaged in Fishing

 A vessel Engaged in Fishing when underway shall keep out of the way of as far as possible
a vessel Not Under Command
a vessel Restricted in her Ability to Manoeuver

 Any vessel other than a vessel Not Under Command or a vessel Restricted in her Ability to
manoeuver shall avoid impeding the safe passage of a vessel Constrained by Her Draft exhibiting its signals.

 A vessel Constrained by her draft shall navigate with particular caution having full regard to her special
condition.

 A seaplane on the water shall keep clear of all vessels and avoid impeding their navigation.

 A Wing In Ground Craft when taking off, landing and in flight near the surface shall keep clear of all vessels
and avoid impeding their navigation.

 A Wing In Ground Craft operating on the surface of the water shall comply with these rules as a Power Driven
vessel.

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Section III – Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

Rule 19 - Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

 This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when navigating in or near areas of restricted visibility.

 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 manoeuver.

 Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility when
complying with the rules of section one of this part.

 A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel shall determine
if a close quarter situation is developing and or risk of collision exist.
If so she shall take avoiding action in ample time provided that when such action consists of a course alteration the
following shall be avoided as far as possible.

An alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being
overtaken.

An alteration of course towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.

 Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not exist where risk of collision exists every
every vessel which hears a fog signal of another vessel forward of her beam
or which cannot avoid a close quarters situation with another vessel forward of her beam,
shall reduce her speed to a minimum so that she can be kept on her course she is following.
She shall if necessary take all her way off and navigate with caution until the danger of collision is over.

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Part C – Lights and Shapes

Rule 20 – Application

This rule complies in all weathers.

Complied from sunset to sunrise.
No other lights exhibited, such lights cannot be mistaken for lights specifies in these rules, do not impair
visibility or distinctive character or interfere with keeping a proper lookout.
Also exhibited in restricted visibility.
Shapes displayed by day.
Lights and shapes shall comply with annex I.
Rule 21 – Definitions

Masthead light means a white light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the vessel showing an unbroken
light over the arc of the horizon of 225 degrees and fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees
abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
Sidelights means a green light on the star side and a red light on the port side each showing an unbroken light
over an arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft
the beam on its respective side.
Sternlight means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the stern showing an unbroken light over an arc
of the horizon of 135 degrees and so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the
vessel.
Towing light means a yellow light having the same characteristics as the sternlight.
Allround light means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees.
Rule 22 – Visibility of Lights

Minimum Ranges Mastlight (miles) Sidelight (miles) Sternlight (miles) Towing Light(miles)
L > 50 meters 6 3 3 3
L < 20 meters 3 2 2 2
L< 12 meters 2 1 2 2
12 < L < 50 5 2 2 2

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Rule 23 – Power Driven Vessels

A power driven vessel underway less than 50m in length shall exhibit,
One masthead light
Sidelights &
Sternlight.

A power driven vessel underway more than 50m in length shall exhibit,
2 masthead lights (second masthead light abaft and higher than the forward one)
Sidelights &
Sternlight.

A power driven vessel less than 12m in length shall exhibit,

One allround white light &
Sidelights.

A power driven vessel less than 7m in length and maximum speed of 7 knots shall exhibit,
One allround white light &
If practicable sidelights.

Air cushion vessel in non displacement mode shall exhibit,

lights as a power driven vessel &
additionally an allround yellow flashing light.

A wing in ground craft when taking off landing or in flight near the surface shall exhibit,
lights as a power driven vessel &
additionally high intensity allround red flashing light.

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Rule 24 – Towing and Pushing Vessels

A power driven vessel towing shall exhibit,

2 masthead lights in a vertical line
if the tow exceeds 200m shall exhibit,
3 masthead lights in vertical line
sidelights,
sternlight &
if vsl length > 50m & tow length < 200m   mast
a yellow towing light vertically above the sternlight.
if vsl length < 50m & tow length > 200m   mast
by day, if vsl length < 50m & tow length < 200m   mast
if tow exceeds 200m if vsl length > 50m & tow length > 200m   mast
a diamond shape where it can best be seen.

A vessel being towed shall exhibit,

sidelights &
sternlight.
by day,
if tow exceeds 200m
a diamond shape where it can best be seen.

A pushing vessel when rigidly connected shall exhibit,

lights as a power driven vessel.

A pushing vessel when not rigidly connected shall exhibit,

2 masthead lights
sidelights &
sternlight.

A vessel being pushed ahead not rigidly connected shall exhibit,

sidelights.

A vessel being towed alongside shall exhibit,

sidelights &
sternlight.

An inconspicuous object being towed shall exhibit,

If the breadth is less than 25m
2 allround white lights, one at forward and one at aft.

If the breadth is more than 25m

2 allround white lights, one at forward & one at aft &
additionally
2 allround white lights one each at the extreme of its breadth.

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Rule 25 – Sailing Vessels

A sailing vessel underway shall exhibit,

sidelights &
sternlight.

A sailing vessel less than 20m in length may have

sidelights and sternlight combined in one lantern.

A sailing vessel shall exhibit,

sidelights &
sternlight.
additionally exhibit,
2 allround lights in vertical line
upper being red and lower green
but not in conjunction with a combined lantern.

A sailing vessel less than 7m in length if practicable exhibit,

sidelights &
sternlight
or sidelights and sternlight in a combined lantern
if not
a torch
or a lighted lantern with a white light.

A vessel under oars exhibit lights as a sailing vessel,

if not shall have a torch
or a lighted lantern showing a white light.

A vessel proceeding under sail when also propelled by machinery shall exhibit,
lights as a power driven vessel
by day,
a cone with apex downwards at the forward where it can best be seen.

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Rule 26 – Fishing Vessels

Vessels engaged in fishing whether underway or at anchor shall exhibit these lights.


A vessel engaged in trawling means a fishing vessel dragging a dredge net or other similar apparatus through the
water.

Vessel engaged in trawling shall exhibit,

2 allround lights in vertical line
upper being green and lower white.
by day,
2 cones with apex together in a vertical line.

If the vessel engaged in trawling more than 50m in length shall exhibit,
a masthead light above the green light.

Vessels engaged in fishing other than trawling shall exhibit,

2 allround lights in vertical line
upper being red and lower white.
by day,
2 cones with apex together in a vertical line.

When fishing gear extends more than 150m in length shall exhibit,
an allround white light in direction of the gear
by day,
a cone with apex upwards in direction of gear.

Rule – 27 Not Under Command Vessels

A vessel not under command shall exhibit,

2 allround red lights in vertical line NUC makingway  2 red lights
sidelights
sternlight
by day,
NUC underway  2 red lights
2 balls in vertical line.
NUC anchored  anchor lights only

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Rule 27 – Restricted in Her Ability to Manoeuver Vessels

A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre except a mine clearance vessel shall

mastlight
exhibit, sidelights
RAM makingway
3 allround lights in vertical line sternlight
upper and lower being red and middle white
by day,
3 shapes in vertical line
upper and lower being balls and middle diamond.

A power driven vessel towing when severely restricts the towing vessel and her tow in
their ability to deviate from the course they are following shall exhibit,
towing vessel lights and shapes &
restricted in her ability to manoeuver vessel lights and shapes.

A vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations, when restricted in her ability to manoeuver shall
exhibit,
restricted in her ability to manoeuver vessel lights and shapes &
in addition shall exhibit,

on the side which obstruction exists,

2 allround red lights in vertical line
by day
2 balls in vertical line

on the side which another vessel may pass

2 allround green lights in vertical line
by day
2 diamonds in vertical line.

A vessel engaged in diving operations when unable to exhibit lights as a vessel engaged in underwater
operations shall exhibit,
restricted in her ability to manoeuver vessel lights and shapes
by day,
a rigid replica of flag alpha
not less than 1 meter height with allround visibility.

A vessel engaged in mine clearance operations shall exhibit,

power driven vessel lights and shapes,
in addition
3 allround green lights
by day
3 balls
one of the lights and shapes exhibited near the foremast head and one each on the fore yard,
Indicates it is dangerous to approach within 1000 meters radius.

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Rule 28 – Constrained by Her Draft Vessels

A vessel constrained by her draft may exhibit,

3 allround red lights in vertical line
by day,
a cylinder.

Rule – 29 Pilot Vessels

Pilot vessels engaged in pilotage duty shall exhibit,

2 allround lights in a vertical line
upper being white and lower red.

Pilot vessels not engaged in pilotage duty shall exhibit lights and shapes as her length.
Rule 30 – Anchored Vessels

A vessel less than 50m in length when anchored shall exhibit,

one allround white light at the fore part
by day,
one ball at the fore part.

A vessel more than 50m in length when anchored shall exhibit,

2 allround white lights, one at the forward and another at the stern lower than the forward one.

A vessel of more than 100m in length may also illuminate her decks.
A vessel less than 7m in length is required to exhibit anchored lights when anchored in or near a narrow
channel, fairway or anchorage.

Rule 30 – Aground Vessels

A vessel aground shall exhibit lights as an anchored vessel only lights as anchored not shapes
in addition shall exhibit,
2 allround red lights in a vertical line
by day,
3 balls in vertical line.

A vessel of less than 12m in length when aground shall be required to exhibit lights and shapes.
Rule 31 – Seaplanes

A seaplane when maneuvering on the water shall exhibit,

a mastlight &
sidelights.
If impracticable shall exhibit lights and shapes as closely as possible to these rules.

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Part D – Sounds and Light Signals

Rule 32 – Definitions

The word whistle means any sound signaling appliance capable of producing the prescribed blasts which
complies with the specifications in annex III.

The term short blast means a blast of about one second duration.
The term prolonged blast means a blast of from four to six seconds duration.
Rule 33 – Equipment for Sound Signals

A vessel 12m or more shall be provided with a whistle.

A vessel 20m or more shall be provided with a whistle and bell.
A vessel 100m or more shall be provided with a whistle, bell and gong.

A vessel of less than 12m shall not be obliged to carry sound signaling appliances, shall be provided with some
other means of making an efficient sound.

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Rule 34 - Manoeuvering and Warning Signals

When power driven vessels insight underway and manoeuvering shall indicate by sound,
1 short blast – I am altering my course to star ( . )
2 short blasts – I am altering my course to port ( . . )
3 short blasts – I am operating stern propulsion ( . . . )

May supplement these sound signals by light signals.

Interval between each blast/flash about one second.
Interval between each signal not less than 10 seconds.

When vessels insight of a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking,

The vessel intending to overtake another shall indicate her intension by the following signals,
2 prolonged blasts followed by one short blast – i intend to overtake you on your star side ( - - . )(G)
2 prolonged blasts followed by 2 short blasts – i intend to overtake you on your port side ( - - . . )(Z)

The vessel to be overtaken shall indicate her in agreement by signaling,

1 prolonged blast, 1 short blast, 1 prolonged blast, 1 short in that order.

When vessels insight and approaching each other and if a vessel is in doubt of the other vessel’s action, short & rapid blast –
vessel shall indicate the doubt signal, blast 1s duration
that is atleast 5 or more short and rapid blasts ( .......... ) interval between
blasts less than 1s.

When a vessel is nearing a bend or an area obscured of s narrow channel or fairway she shall signal,
one prolonged blast ( - )
Such signal may be answered by another prolonged blast by the approaching vessel. ( - )

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Rule 35 – Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility

These signals shall be used in or near areas of restricted visibility whether by day or night.

A power driven vessel makingway through the water shall sound,

one prolonged blast ( - ) (T)
at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

A power driven vessel underway shall sound,

2 prolonged blasts ( - - ) (M)
at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

NUC,
RAM,
CBD,
Sailing Vessel,
Engaged in Fishing Vessel,
Towing or Pushing,
Whether makingway or underway shall sound
1 prolonged blast followed by 2 short blasts ( - . . ) (D)
in an interval not more than 2 minutes.

A vessel engaged in fishing at anchor and

RAM vessel carrying out work at anchor
shall sound,
1 prolonged blast followed by 2 short blasts ( - . . ) (D)
in an interval not more than 2 minutes.

A vessel being towed or if more than one vessel is towed the last vessel if manned shall sound immediately
after the signal of the towing vessel.
1 prolonged blast followed by 3 short blasts ( - . . . ) (B)
in an interval not more than 2 minutes.

A vessel pushing ahead and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit shall sound
signals as a power driven vessel.

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
A vessel at anchor shall ring the bell rapidly for about 5 seconds at intervals of not more than 1 minute.

In a vessel of 100 meters or more,

bell shall be sounded in the forepart foe 5 seconds
followed by the gong sounded in the aft part for 5 seconds
at intervals of not more than 1 minute.

A vessel at anchor in addition to warn her position and possibility of risk of collision to an approaching vessel
shall sound,
1 short blast, 1 prolonged blast and 1 short blast ( . _ . ) (R)
at intervals of not more than 1 minute.


A vessel aground shall sound,
bell and gong signals prescribed for vessels at anchor
additionally
3 separate and distinct strokes on bell
after and before the rapid ringing of the bell.
May in addition sound an appropriate whistle signal ( . . _ ) (U)
at intervals of not more than 1 minute.

A vessel less than 20m in length is not obliged to sound the prescribed signals,
if not shall make an efficient sound signal
at an interval of not more than 2 minutes.

Pilot vessels when engaged in pilotage duty,

in addition to the signals prescribed for power driven vessels at makingway, underway, or at anchor
shall sound an identity signal of,
4 short blasts ( . . . . ) (H)
at an interval not more than 2 minutes.
( _ . . . . ) ( _ _....) ( 🔔 . . . . )

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Rule 36 - Signals to Attract Attention

Signals used to attract attention cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere in these rules.
Searchlight may not impede or confuse other vessels.
Light used to attract attention shall not be mistaken for any aid to navigation.
High intensity or revolving lights may not be used for the purpose of these rules.
Rule 37 – Distress Signals

Gunshot or explosives fired at interval of not more than one minute.

Continuous sounding of fog signal
Rocket, shells or red stars fired.
Sos morse signal.
Mayday spoken word.
International code of signal of distress.
Square flag with a ball.
Flames on vessel.
Rocket parachute.
Hand flare.
Smoke signal.
Raising and lowering of arms.
Radiotelegraph alarm signal. The international radiotelegraph alarm signal consists of a series of twelve
dashes sent in one minute.
Radiotelephone alarm signal.
The international radiotelephone alarm signal consists of two substantially
Signals by SART. sinusoidal audio frequency tones transmitted alternately.
Signals by EPIRB.

Part E – Exceptions

Rule 38 – Exceptions

Any vessel which complies with the solas regulations of 1960.

That is keel laid before entry of the solas 1974 is exempted from compliance with the follows.
Mainly regarding positing and characteristics of lights and sound signaling appliances.

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Part F – Verification of Compliance

Rule 39 – Definitions

Audit means a systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating it
objectively to determine the fulfillment of audit criteria.

Audit scheme means IMO member state audit scheme established and guidelines developed by the IMO.
Code of implementation is the IMO instruments implementation code adopted by the IMO.
Audit standard means the code for implementation.
Rule 40 – Application

Contracting parties should use the code for implementation to execute their obligations and responsibilities as per
the conventions.

Rule 41 – Verification of Compliance

Every contracting party is subjected to periodic audits by IMO as per audit standards to verify compliance with
the convention.

The secretary general of IMO has responsibility for administering the audit scheme based on the guideline
developed by the IMO.

Every contracting party is responsible for facilitating the audit and address the findings based on the guidelines
developed by the IMO.

Audits of the contracting parties is based on the overall schedule developed by the IMO secretary general and
conducted at periodic intervals according to the guidelines developed by the IMO.

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Annexes

Annex I – Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes

Vertical Positioning and Spacing of Lights.

On a PDV of 20m or more if only one masthead light is carried the height of the masthead light shall not be less
than 6m above the hull.
If the breadth of the vessel exceeds 6m the height of the masthead light shall be not less than the breadth,
however it should not be greater than 12m above the hull.
When 2 masthead lights are carried the aft light should be atleast 4.5m vertically higher than the forward light.
Vertical separation shall be such that, the aft light shall be seen over and separated from the forward light under
normal trim conditions when viewed from a distance of 1000m from the stem at sea level.

When 2 or 3 lights are carried in vertical line in vessels of 20m or more,

lights shall be placed not less than 2m apart, lowest light shall be atleast 4m above the hull,
except towing lights.

When 3 lights are carried it should be equally spaced.

When 2 anchor lights are carried the forward light shall not be less than 4.5m above the aft light.

Horizontal Positioning and Spacing of Lights.

When 2 masthead lights are carried in a PDV, the horizontal distance between them shall not be less than half of
the vessel length, however not more than 100m.

The forward light shall be placed not more than one quarter length of the vessel from the stem.

On a PDV more than 20m or more the sidelights shall be placed aft of the forward masthead light at or near the
side of the vessel.

Screens for Sidelights.

In a vessel 20m or more sidelights shall be fitted with inboard screens painted matt black and meet requirements
of horizontal sectors.

Manoeuvering Light.

Allround white light, minimum visibility 5 miles.

Placed in the same fore and aft vertical plane as masthead light.
Minimum 2m above the forward masthead light and not less than 2m above or below the aft masthead light.
On vessels where one masthead light is carried the manoeuvering light shall be placed where it can best be seen,
not less than 2m vertically apart from the masthead light.

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Shapes

Ball diameter not less than 0.6m.

Cone base diameter not less than 0.6m and height equal to its diameter.
Cylinder diameter atleast 0.6m and height twice the diameter.
Diamond has characteristics of 2 cones.

Shapes shall be black color.

Vertical distance between shapes shall be atleast 1.5m.

Horizontal Sectors

Sidelights practical cut off between 1− 3outside the prescribed sectors.
Mastlight and sternlight practical cut off at not more than 5 outside the prescribed sectors.

Vertical Sectors

Vertical sectors for electrical lights except for sailing vessels.

Required intensity maintained upto 5 above and below horizontal,

60% of required intensity maintained upto 7.5 above and below the horizontal.

Annex II – Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels fishing in Close Proximity

General
These additional lights shall be placed where it can best be seen, atleast 0.9m apart and lower than lights
prescribed for vessels engaged in fishing, allround lights, visibility atleast 1 mile but lesser range of visibility than
lights for fishing vessels.
Signals for Trawlers
Vessels of 20m or more when engaged in trawling whether using demersal or pelagic gear shall exhibit,
When shooting nets 2 white lights in vertical line.
When hauling nets 1 white light over 1 red light in vertical line. Demersal Fish live on or near the bottom of
seas. They occupy the sea floors and lake beds.
When nets have come upon obstruction 2 red lights in vertical line. Pelagic Fish live neither close to the bottom nor
near the shore. Mid sea fish.
Vessels 20m or more engaged in pair trawling shall exhibit,
By night a searchlight directed towards the other vessel in the pair.
When shooting nets 2 white lights in vertical line.
When hauling nets 1 white light over 1 red light in vertical line.
When nets have come upon obstruction 2 red lights in vertical line.

Vessels less than 20m engaged in trawling may exhibit signals used by trawlers as appropriate.

Signals for Purse Seiners

Vessels engaged in fishing with purse seine gear may exhibit,
when vessel is hampered by its fishing gear,
2 yellow lights in vertical line flashing alternately every second. Purse Seine - non selective fishing method where a wall of netting
encircled a large area and the net is drawn together that captures
everything that it surrounds.

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Annex III – Technical Details of Sound Signaling Appliances

Range of Audibility
200m or more 2 nm
75m less than 200m 1.5nm
20m less than 75m 1nm
less than 20m 0.5nm

If whistles are fitted at a distance apart more than 100m shall not sound simultaneously.

Bell and Gong

Diameter of bell not less than 300m for vessels 20m or more.
Strike bell at constant force if manual operation.
Striker mass not less than 3% mass of bell.

Annex IV – Distress Signals

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