Understanding the rules and responsibilities to avoid collision.
Continuing our series on emergency training, we resume discussing the rules for watchkeepers, but with a focus on collision avoidance. There have been a few accidents in the news lately, and unfortunately, some with fatal consequences.
Standing a watch underway is one of the most important duties you can perform on board, and one that requires not only your full attention, but also your full understanding of what those duties are. The MCA, USCG and virtually every flag state out there takes this responsibility of the watchstander seriously. As with other watchstanding duties we have been discussing, the rules for collision avoidance are clear and well-articulated in the COLREGS.
Unfortunately, there are incidents wherein a watchstander knew “some of the rules” but didn’t understand what their responsibilities are, even as the stand-on vessel. Let’s start with a simple one: what is the difference between a stand-on vessel and a give-way vessel? A stand-on vessel has the right of way over the give-way vessel, either because of vessel type, nature of the work or its ability to maneuver in certain narrow or shallow areas. Being the stand-on vessel does not mean that you have no obligation or responsibility to maneuver; in fact, Rule 17 specifically addresses this point and states:
“Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way, the other shall keep her course and speed. The latter vessel may, however, take action to avoid collision by her maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in compliance with these Rules.
When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course and speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to avoid collision. A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing situation in accordance with Rule 17 to avoid collision with another power-driven vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, not alter course to port for a vessel on her own port side.
This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of her obligation to keep out of the way.”
So, even as the stand-on vessel you have a legal obligation to act when it’s apparent that the give-way vessel is not in compliance with their obligations as a give-way vessel.
Clear communication and clear information are critical in determining if risk of collision exists. When in doubt, call the captain, but please call the captain early enough so that there is sufficient time to act. Use of the radar, ECDIS, AIS and VHF are all vital tools in determining if a risk of collision exists. Avoid making a series of small changes, and if at all possible, avoid last-minute course changes. Make your intentions clear and your movements readily apparent.
The Rules of the Road (COLREGS) are designed to allow for safe passage and interaction between vessels. Watchstanders must know and follow these rules as part of their normal duties on the bridge.