Question 43 MODU01 - Offshore Installation Manager

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for A (Correct Option):** Rule 33 of the International and Inland Rules of the Road (Equipment for Sound Signals) states the requirements for whistles, bells, and, where required, gongs. Specifically, Rule 33(a) dictates that the equipment must be capable of being operated manually. Even if a vessel is equipped with automatic sounding devices (like automated fog signals), the ability to manually sound the bell and the gong (if required by the vessel's length) must always be maintained to comply with safety regulations and operational necessity. **Why the other options are incorrect:** **B) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length need not have any sound signaling equipment.** This is incorrect. Rule 32 and 33 specify that a vessel of less than 12 meters in length must still be provided with "some other means of making an efficient sound signal" (often a whistle or horn capable of the required pitch and duration). They are not exempt from carrying *any* sound signaling equipment. **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(b)). Vessels between 12 and 100 meters must be provided with a whistle and a bell. **D) Automatic sounding of the signals is not permitted.** This is incorrect. Rule 33 allows for the automatic sounding of signals, provided that the equipment is also capable of being manually operated (as explained in the justification for option A). Automatic devices (like controllers for fog signals) are commonly used.