Circular 19: 08 Notes When Maneuvering Vessels to Avoid Collisions

When maneuvering vessels to avoid collisions at sea, it is necessary to follow the guidance in Article 8 of Circular 19/2013/TT-BGTVT as follows:

Illustration (source: internet)

- When maneuvering to avoid collisions with vessels on a voyage in all visibility conditions (stipulated in Chapter 2 of this Circular), the maneuver must be conducted decisively, promptly, and in accordance with the experience of a skilled seafarer when circumstances permit.- When changing course or speed, or both at the same time to avoid collisions, if circumstances allow, the change must be large enough for the other vessel to easily recognize by sight or radar; avoid making incremental changes to course or speed, or both simultaneously.- If there is sufficient open water, a simple change of course could be considered the most effective action to avoid getting too close to other vessels, provided that such maneuver is conducted promptly, effectively, and does not lead to another close-quarters situation.- Actions to avoid collisions with another vessel are those that result in the vessels passing each other at a safe distance. The effectiveness of collision-avoidance actions must be carefully verified until the other vessel has completely passed and is far from one's own vessel.- If necessary to avoid collisions or to gain more time to assess the situation, vessels must reduce speed or stop by stopping the engine or reversing.- Vessels that, according to this Circular, are not to impede the passage or safe passage of another vessel must maneuver early, when circumstances require, to ensure a safe passing distance for the other vessel.- Vessels must not impede the passage or safe passage of another vessel and are not relieved of responsibility if they approach another vessel to the extent that there is a risk of collision. Maneuvers must be done with full consideration of the provisions in this Chapter.- Priority vessels, not to be impeded by other vessels, are still required to fully comply with the provisions of this Chapter when two vessels approach each other with a risk of collision.

More details can be found in Circular 19/2013/TT-BGTVT effective from September 15, 2013.

Thu Ba

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