In the context of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), the terms “close quarter situation,” “risk of collision,” and “impeding the safe passage” are related but have distinct meanings:
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), the terms “close quarter situation,” “risk of collision,” and “impeding the safe passage” are related to specific rules:
Close Quarter Situation
This term refers to a situation in which vessels are in close proximity to each other and there is a risk of collision if no action is taken.
A close quarter situation occurs when vessels are approaching each other or when one vessel is overtaking another.
Rule 7 of the COLREGs addresses the action to be taken when vessels are in close quarter situations. It states that every vessel must use all available means to determine if risk of collision exists and to avoid it.
Risk of Collision
This term is used to describe a situation in which there is a danger of collision between two vessels.
According to COLREGs, a risk of collision exists if the distance between the vessels is decreasing and it is possible that they will collide if no action is taken.
Rule 7 of the COLREGs also addresses the determination of risk of collision. It states that a risk of collision exists if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change over a period of time.
Impeding the Safe Passage
This term is used to describe a situation in which one vessel’s actions are hindering or obstructing another vessel’s ability to navigate safely.
For example, a vessel that is anchored in a narrow channel and blocking the passage of other vessels is said to be impeding the safe passage.
Rule 9 of the COLREGs covers the rules for vessels navigating in narrow channels or fairways. It states that a vessel must not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.
In summary, a close quarter situation refers to vessels being in close proximity, a risk of collision indicates a potential danger of vessels colliding, and impeding the safe passage means one vessel is obstructing another’s safe navigation. These terms are important for mariners to understand and comply with to ensure safe navigation at sea.
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