Expanded Explanation for Rule 10 - Traffic Separation Schemes
Rule 10 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) deals with the conduct of vessels in and near traffic separation schemes (TSS). Traffic separation schemes are established in busy maritime areas to organize the flow of vessel traffic and reduce the risk of collisions. Here’s an expanded explanation of Rule 10:
Key Points of Rule 10
- General Application:
- Rule 10 applies to vessels navigating within traffic separation schemes adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
- Use of Traffic Lanes:
- Vessels must proceed in the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic flow for that lane.
- Example: A tanker navigating through the English Channel follows the designated eastbound traffic lane, maintaining the correct direction of flow.
- Crossing Traffic Lanes:
- Vessels should cross traffic lanes as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow to minimize the time spent in the lane.
- Example: A fishing vessel needs to cross a traffic lane and does so at a 90-degree angle to reduce the risk of collision with vessels in the lane.
- Avoiding Traffic Separation Zones:
- Vessels should avoid entering separation zones or crossing lines except in cases of emergency or to engage in fishing within the zone.
- Example: A cargo ship experiences engine failure and must enter the separation zone to drop anchor safely while awaiting assistance.
- Small Vessels and Fishing Vessels:
- Vessels less than 20 meters in length and sailing vessels should avoid impeding the safe passage of power-driven vessels following traffic lane directions.
- Example: A small yacht navigating near a TSS ensures it does not impede larger vessels, keeping clear of the traffic lanes.
- Use of Inshore Traffic Zones:
- Inshore traffic zones are designated for use by vessels navigating close to the coast. Vessels using inshore traffic zones should still comply with relevant rules.
- Example: A coastal tanker uses the inshore traffic zone to navigate closer to the shoreline, following the designated route.
- Precautionary Areas:
- Vessels navigating in areas near the ends of traffic separation schemes must be particularly cautious and take action to avoid collisions.
- Example: A container ship approaching the end of a TSS reduces speed and maintains a sharp lookout to avoid conflicts with other vessels.
- Navigational Behavior:
- Vessels must adhere to the rules of the road while navigating within a traffic separation scheme, maintaining proper lookout, safe speed, and readiness to maneuver.
- Action to Avoid Collisions:
- Vessels should take early and substantial action to avoid collisions, ensuring all movements are clear and executed in compliance with the rules.
- Fishing Vessels:
- Fishing vessels engaged in fishing should not impede the passage of other vessels navigating within traffic lanes.
- Example: A trawler actively fishing within a TSS adjusts its position to avoid obstructing a bulk carrier transiting the traffic lane.