Revision Notes: COLREG overview

Revision Notes on International Rules for Prevention of Collisions At Sea (COLREGs)

Introduction

The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) are essential guidelines designed to ensure the safe navigation of vessels and prevent collisions. Adopted in 1972, these rules are crucial for all seafarers and are divided into six parts, covering general conduct, steering and sailing, lights and shapes, sound and light signals, exemptions, and verification of compliance. This comprehensive guide will provide you with essential revision notes tailored for an OOW Orals Prep Course and to help you master the knowledge required for MCA exams.

Click on the Rule Number for explanation.

Key Points

  1. Part A - General (Rules 1-3):
    • Rule 1: Applies to all vessels on the high seas and connected navigable waters.
    • Rule 2: Emphasizes the responsibility of the master, owner, and crew to comply with the rules.
    • Rule 3: Provides definitions for terms used in the regulations.
  2. Part B - Steering and Sailing (Rules 4-19):
    • Rule 4: Applies in any visibility condition.
    • Rule 5: Requires a proper lookout at all times by sight, hearing, and all available means.
    • Rule 6: Vessels must proceed at a safe speed.
    • Rule 7: Warns against assumptions based on scanty information.
    • Rule 8: Outlines actions to avoid collisions.
    • Rule 9: Vessels in narrow channels must keep to the starboard side.
    • Rule 10: Covers behaviour in traffic separation schemes.
    • Rule 19: Vessels not in sight of one another
  3. Part C - Lights and Shapes (Rules 20-31):
    • Rules 20-31: Detail the lights and shapes required for different vessels to ensure visibility and recognition.
  4. Part D - Sound and Light Signals (Rules 32-37):
    • Rules 32-37: Specify the sound and light signals to be used in various situations to prevent collisions.
  5. Part E - Exemptions (Rules 38-40):
    • Rules 38-40: Provide exemptions under certain conditions.
  6. Part F - Verification of Compliance (Rules 41-43):
    • Rules 41-43: Outline the verification process for compliance with the regulations.
COLREG Questions Rules 1 - 4