Question 43 GLI02 - Mate of Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A is correct because both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the U.S. Inland Rules require that vessels capable of automatically sounding their required signals (whistle, bell, or gong) must also retain the capability for manual operation. Specifically, Rule 33 (Equipment for Sound Signals) states that any automated system must be arranged so that manual operation is always possible. This ensures that a vessel can still give the required signals even if the automated system fails, or if a specific, non-programmed signal is needed. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length need not have any sound signaling equipment.** This is incorrect. Both International and Inland Rules require vessels less than 12 meters to carry some means of making an efficient sound signal, though it doesn't need to meet the precise requirements of Rule 33 (like a fitted whistle/bell). They must still be able to signal their intentions and position effectively (Rule 33(b)). * **C) Any vessel over 12 meters in length must be provided with a gong.** This is incorrect. A gong is only required for vessels 100 meters or more in length (Rule 33(a)(ii)). Vessels between 12 meters and 100 meters must be provided with a whistle and a bell. * **D) Automatic sounding of the signals is not permitted.** This is incorrect. Automatic sounding devices (e.g., fog signal timers) are expressly permitted and commonly used, provided that they comply with the proper characteristics and that manual operation remains possible (as confirmed by the correctness of Option A).