Question 16 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

The Correct Answer is C. **Why option C ("navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility") is correct:** The rules governing the conduct of vessels in restricted visibility (Rule 19 of the COLREGs – International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) apply universally to **all vessels** when they are navigating **in or near an area of restricted visibility**. This is a mandatory safety requirement designed to prevent collisions when visibility is reduced (e.g., due to fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any other similar cause). The rules dictate specific speed, maneuvering, and sound signal requirements, and they do not depend on the vessel's equipment or lights. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) only if they have operational radar:** This is incorrect. While radar is a useful tool in restricted visibility (addressed by Rule 7 and Rule 19(d)), the rules apply to *all* vessels, including those without radar or those whose radar is non-operational. Lack of radar does not exempt a vessel from the requirements of Rule 19. * **B) in sight of one another in fog:** This is incorrect. If vessels are *in sight* of one another, they are governed by Rules 11 through 18 (Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility or Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another). Rule 19 (Restricted Visibility) applies when vessels cannot see each other clearly due to the restricted visibility conditions, or when they are navigating *near* such an area. If they are in sight, they are generally past the point where Rule 19 is the primary operating rule. * **D) only if they are showing special purpose lights:** This is incorrect. The application of restricted visibility rules applies based on the environmental condition (lack of visibility), not based on the vessel's purpose or the specific lights it is displaying. Showing special purpose lights (like lights for a fishing vessel or a vessel constrained by its draft) relates to identifying the vessel's status under Rules 20-31, but it does not determine whether Rule 19 must be followed.