Question 43 GLI01 - Master-Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation of Option A (Correct):** Option A states, "Manual sounding of the bell and gong must always be possible." This is correct under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules (33 CFR Subpart C, Rule 33). Both regulations require that if automatic sounding of the required sound signal appliances (whistle, bell, or gong) is provided, the arrangement must be such that **manual operation is always possible**. This ensures that the master or operator can take immediate control and sound signals appropriate to the situation, overriding any automatic sequence if necessary. **Explanation of Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length need not have any sound signaling equipment.** This is incorrect. While vessels under 12 meters do not need the specific whistle and bell required for larger vessels, COLREGs Rule 33(a) and the Inland Rules require that such a vessel must be provided with **some means of making an efficient sound signal** (i.e., a horn, whistle, or other apparatus capable of producing a signal). They cannot operate without *any* equipment. * **C) Any vessel over 12 meters in length must be provided with a gong.** This is incorrect. The requirement for a **bell** applies to vessels 12 meters or more in length. The requirement for a **gong** (or equivalent sound generating equipment) only applies to vessels of 100 meters or more in length (COLREGs Rule 33(a)(iii)). * **D) Automatic sounding of the signals is not permitted.** This is incorrect. Automatic sounding (such as programmed fog signals) is explicitly permitted by Rule 33, provided the manual operation capability is maintained, as noted in the explanation for A.