Page 102 - Collision Avoidance Rules Guide

Special signal
The International Code two letter signal ‘YG’ has the meaning ‘You
appear not to be complying with the traffic separation scheme’. The
master of any vessel receiving the signal by whatever means should
take immediate steps to check his course and position and any further
action which may be appropriate in the circumstances.

Deep water routes
A deep water route is defined in the IMO publication Ships’ Routeing
as a route in a designated area within definite limits which has been
accurately surveyed for clearance of sea bottom and submerged
obstacles as indicated on the chart. It is primarily intended for use by
ships which because of their draught in relation to the available depth
of water are restricted in their choice of route. Through traffic not
restricted by draught considerations should, if practicable, avoid
following deep water routes.
A deep water route may form part of a traffic lane and be intended
for use by deep draught vessels moving in the general direction of
flow. The provisions of Rule 10 would apply in this case as the route
would be covered by a traffic separation scheme. Deep water routes
have been established which are not part of a traffic separation
scheme adopted by the Organization. Rule 10 does not apply to such
routes but it would, nevertheless, be prudent for vessels which cannot
avoid crossing them to do so at right angles.
Deep water routes which do not form part of a separation scheme
may be intended for use by one-way or two-way traffic, as indicated
by arrows on the chart. Vessels using a deep water route for two-way
traffic should keep to the starboard side of the route.

Cable work and safety operations
Vessels engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a submarine cable
or navigation mark and vessels engaged in surveying are included in
the categories of vessels to be regarded as being restricted in their
ability to manceuvre, as prescribed in Rule 3(g). Vessels engaged in
the above activities are, therefore, likely to be privileged with respect
to other vessels but they would normally be expected to comply with
the provisions of Rule 10 and to either cross traffic lanes at right
angles or proceed along them in the general direction of traffic flow.

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