Question 43 GLI05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for A (Correct Option):** Rule 33 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules addresses the requirement for sound signaling appliances. Specifically, Rule 33(b) states, "Any automatic sounding of the bell or gong shall be capable of being overridden by a manual operation." This ensures that even if a vessel utilizes automated signaling (such as during restricted visibility), the crew maintains the immediate ability to sound the required signals manually at all times for navigational safety. Therefore, manual sounding of the bell and gong must always be possible. **Explanation for B (Incorrect Option):** Rule 33(a) states that a vessel of 12 meters or more must be provided with a whistle and a bell (and a gong if 100 meters or more). However, Rule 33(c) addresses vessels less than 12 meters: "A vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall not be obliged to carry the sound signaling appliances prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule but if she does not, she shall be provided with some other means of making an efficient sound signal." Therefore, they are still required to have *some* efficient sound signaling equipment, making the statement that they need *no* equipment false. **Explanation for C (Incorrect Option):** Rule 33(a) specifies the requirements based on vessel length. A whistle and bell are required for vessels 12 meters or more. A *gong* is only required if the vessel is 100 meters or more in length. Therefore, a vessel just over 12 meters (e.g., 15 meters) is not required to have a gong. **Explanation for D (Incorrect Option):** Automatic sounding of signals *is* permitted and commonly used, especially for fog signals, as long as the system complies with the technical specifications outlined in Annex III (e.g., proper timing and sequences). However, as noted in the explanation for A, manual override capability must be maintained.