Question 21 MODU01 - Offshore Installation Manager

The Correct Answer is C ### **Explanation for Option C (Correct Answer)** Option C, "not result in another close-quarters situation," is the correct answer because it directly reflects a fundamental requirement found in Rule 8(b) of both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules. Rule 8 (Action to avoid collision) states, in part: > **Rule 8(b):** Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided. > **Rule 8(c):** If there is sufficient sea room, any action to avoid collision, other than an alteration of course alone, shall include an alteration of speed, or both course and speed, and be positive, made in ample time, and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship. > **Rule 8(d):** Action taken to avoid collision shall be such as to result in passing at a safe distance. **The effectiveness of the action shall be carefully checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.** While Rule 8(d) doesn't use the exact phrase "close-quarters situation," the requirement that action taken must result in passing at a "safe distance" and the immediate need to check the effectiveness of the action implies that the action must not create a new danger or close-quarters situation with the original vessel or any other vessel. A primary goal of taking action is to resolve the risk of collision definitively, not merely shift the problem to a new location or time. ### **Explanation of Incorrect Options** **A) include a speed change** This option is incorrect because while an alteration of speed is often necessary and mandatory when sea room permits (Rule 8(c) states action "shall include an alteration of speed, or both course and speed" if the action taken is **other than an alteration of course alone**), a proper and effective anti-collision action **can** be achieved by a clear, large alteration of course **alone** if circumstances dictate. Therefore, a speed change is not a universal requirement for *any* action taken. **B) be accompanied by sound signals** This option is incorrect. Sound signals are required only for specific maneuvers (e.g., turning, overtaking, coming up on plane) or when vessels are in sight of one another and doubt exists as to the intentions of the other vessel (Rule 34(d)). A vessel taking necessary action to avoid collision (e.g., a simple course change to starboard) is *not* universally required to accompany that action with a sound signal under the standard maneuvering rules. **D) All of the above** Since options A and B are incorrect, this option must also be incorrect.