200519 The Use of VHF in Collision Avoidance 2

The Use of VHF in Collision Avoidance 2
MARS Report 200519

I would like to bring to the attention of the readers that VHF is quite a useful tool that can be used for collision avoidance. Especially when close quarters situations are evolving, in moderate traffic density with fishing boats in the area and the amount of available sea room, etc. A give-way vessel may at times not be able to take action as per the COLREGS, and it is difficult for a stand-on vessel to determine when it is time for her to take avoiding action and then both vessels end up in a dilemma as to when to start taking action and for how long can one wait until the other takes action. This only leads to a worse situation by delaying the action.

Nowadays we have very good radars which have GPS inputs and we can determine the exact GPS position of the other vessel and also its SOG and COG etc. We can also mention the corresponding aspect of the other vessel in relation to own vessel. This, in my view should cause no confusion in identifying the vessel we intend to call. In a situation like this, one is always tempted to call the other vessel and is anticipating a call as well, this helps to make the identification easier. Using an ALDIS lamp in conjunction with a VHF is even better. When you are making a call on the VHF to another vessel, all the other vessels in the vicinity will also keep a more careful listening watch. I have been in a few situations where I had to resort to the aid of a VHF, sometimes in conjunction with an ALDIS lamp, to know the intentions or any constraints of the other vessel in order to leave me with more time to take action and navigate safely. This doesn't mean that one is not conversant with the COLREGS. VHF is just another aid to safe navigation and should (can) be used in a prudent manner without forgetting your good seamanship practices.

Finally, when it comes to safely navigating the ship, one should use all available means. For example, the VTIS in Singapore relies solely on VHF, radar and GPS to track all the ships and guide them to navigate safely. I'm pretty sure that we navigators who spend at least 8 hours everyday with radars and GPS and VHFs, can do an equally commendable job.

The UK MCA say that "Although, the use of VHF may be justified on occasion in collision avoidance, the provisions of the COLREGS should remain uppermost, as misunderstandings can arise even when the language of communication is not a problem. RB