5.3 COLREGS
The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) (1977) were established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance navigation safety and protect life at sea.
COLREGS are divided into several parts:
- Part A: General - Outlines the basic responsibilities and definitions relevant to all vessels.
- Part B: Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility - Rules 4 to 10 focus on navigation rules applicable when vessels can see each other.
- Part C: Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility - Rules 19 to 25 address navigation rules when visibility is impaired.
- Part D: Exemptions - Specifies conditions under which certain vessels may be exempt from specific regulations.
Key Rules of COLREGS
Rule 1: Application - The COLREGS apply to all vessels on the high seas and in navigable waters.
Rule 2: Responsibility - All vessel operators must avoid collisions and take necessary actions even if responsibility for the situation is unclear.
Rule 3: General Definitions - Defines important terms that are crucial for interpreting other rules.
Part B: Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility
- Rule 4 - Application: Relevant in any visibility condition.
- Rule 5 - Lookout: Vessels must maintain a proper lookout using sight, hearing, and instruments.
- Rule 6 - Safe Speed: Vessels must travel at a safe speed to take effective avoiding action.
- Rule 7 - Risk of Collision: Mandatory evaluation of potential collision risks.
- Rule 8 - Action to Avoid Collision: Requires positive and timely actions to prevent collisions.
- Rule 9 - Narrow Channels: Outlines navigation protocols in narrow channels.
- Rule 10 - Traffic Separation Schemes: Provides guidelines for navigating in designated traffic separation lanes.
Part C: Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility
- Rule 19 - Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility: Outlines necessary actions during impaired visibility, including sounding fog signals.
Special Considerations for Merchant Ships:
Priority of Vessels - Merchant vessels must recognize various categories (e.g., fishing and sailing vessels) to determine right of way effectively.
Use of Aids to Navigation - Effective utilization of technologies such as radar, AIS, and ECDIS is essential for compliance with COLREGS, especially in congested waters.
Training and Competence - Training in COLREGS for all crew members is essential. The Officer of the Watch (OOW) must fully understand these regulations and their practical applications.
Accident Reporting and Accountability - Prompt reporting and documentation of any collision are vital for legal and regulatory processes.
National Regulations and Enforcement - Compliance with both COLREGS and local regulations is necessary, as national laws may impose additional requirements.