Question 7 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for Option C (Correct Answer):** Option C, "You may sound at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle," is correct because it addresses the situation described: being in doubt as to the intentions of the crossing vessel. This maneuver takes place in a narrow channel (Rule 9 applies), but the underlying principle here relates to the Rules governing sound signals (Rule 34 - Manoeuvring and Warning Signals). Rule 34(d) states that when vessels are in sight of one another, if either vessel is in doubt as to the intention or actions of the other vessel, or whether sufficient action is being taken by the other vessel to avoid collision, the vessel in doubt **shall** indicate such doubt by sounding at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle. This is the internationally recognized "danger signal." **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** **A) You must sound one prolonged and two short blasts:** This signal (one prolonged, two short) is the required signal when a vessel is restricted in its ability to manoeuvre (Rule 35) or when making up a tow (Rule 34), or in fog (Rule 35). It is not the designated signal for expressing doubt about another vessel's intentions when in sight of one another. **B) You should sound one short blast to indicate that you are holding course and speed:** One short blast is the signal (Rule 34(a)) used to indicate a change of course to starboard (i.e., "I am altering my course to starboard"). It is never used to indicate that you are holding course and speed. Furthermore, in a situation of doubt, a vessel should communicate that doubt (using the danger signal) rather than asserting a maneuver that is not taking place. **D) You are required to back down:** While taking early and substantial action to avoid collision is mandatory (Rule 8), the Rules do not mandate a specific maneuver like backing down (reversing engines) as the *required* immediate action based solely on being in doubt. The immediate requirement in a situation of doubt concerning intentions (Rule 34(d)) is to sound the danger signal (five short blasts). The subsequent required action would depend on whether risk of collision exists and what the safest maneuver is, but reversing engines is not the mandatory initial response described by Rule 9 or Rule 34.