Question 22 GLI04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** A Traffic Separation Zone (TSZ) is a fundamental component of a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), as defined in international and national maritime regulations (specifically Rule 10 of the COLREGs – International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). Its primary purpose is inherently structural: it acts as a buffer or demarcation line. Therefore, a traffic separation zone is that part of a traffic separation scheme which **separates traffic proceeding in one direction from traffic proceeding in the opposite direction**. This zone is usually an area of water or a demarcation line that mariners are strongly advised not to enter or cross, except under specific circumstances (like crossing the scheme or entering/leaving a lane). **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) is located between the scheme and the nearest land:** This describes a **Coastal Traffic Zone** (or Inshore Traffic Zone), which is an area defined between the TSS and the coast. While this zone is adjacent to the scheme, it is not the definition of the Traffic Separation Zone itself. * **C) is designated as an anchorage area:** An anchorage area is a separate designation where vessels are permitted to anchor. The Traffic Separation Zone is generally an area that vessels are restricted from using unnecessarily, making it unsuitable and dangerous for routine anchoring. * **D) contains all the traffic moving in the same direction:** The area that contains traffic moving in the same direction is called the **Traffic Lane** (or 'traffic path'), not the Traffic Separation Zone. The TSZ is the barrier *between* the lanes.