What is the Marker Buoy Used in Inland Waterways?

What is signage used on inland waterway buoys? (Illustrative image)

According to Circular 73/2011/TT-BGTVT, auxiliary signs used on buoys, auxiliary signs for notification signage, and flags are regulated as follows:

1. Concept of auxiliary signs used on buoys

Auxiliary signs placed on buoys, also known as signage: These are supplementary signs to clarify the meaning of the signals and are used in the following cases:

- Cylinder buoys, pillar buoys, or the buoy body cannot display the signal shape as prescribed.- Other types of buoys where the buoy body or buoy frame cannot be fitted with the prescribed signal.- At locations where the channel begins to change direction, curves, or dangerous positions, additional signage can be installed on top of the main signal to emphasize the signal’s meaning.

These signs have the shape and color prescribed for the main signals but are smaller in size and are placed on top of the buoy.

2. Concept of auxiliary signs used for notification signage

These are signs intended to support the notification signs in terms of meaning, as well as determining the scope of the signal’s effectiveness.

3. Concept of flags

In cases where the channel changes suddenly or unexpected obstacles arise and it's not possible to arrange signals promptly, a triangular flag must be placed immediately, with the right side red and the left side green. At night, a continuously lit light with red light on the right side and green light on the left side should be used.

Within 24 hours, these temporary flags must be replaced with signals having the prescribed signs.

More details can be found in Circular 73/2011/TT-BGTVT, effective from June 30, 2012.

Thuy Tram

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