Question 22 ONC03 - Master LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** A Traffic Separation Zone (TSZ) is a fundamental component of a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), as defined by both the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) and relevant national/international maritime organizations. Its primary and defining function is to physically and conceptually separate the opposing streams of traffic within the TSS. This separation minimizes the risk of head-on collisions, as vessels traveling in opposite directions are kept far apart, usually by a zone that vessels are encouraged not to navigate through, except in specific circumstances (e.g., crossing or joining/leaving the scheme). **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** **Option B (is located between the scheme and the nearest land):** This describes a **Coastal Traffic Zone** or **Inshore Traffic Zone (ITZ)**, not the Traffic Separation Zone (TSZ). The ITZ is the area between the adjacent traffic lane and the nearest land, often designated for local traffic, fishing vessels, or vessels not participating in the TSS. **Option C (is designated as an anchorage area):** Traffic Separation Schemes are intended for continuous movement and safe navigation. Using any part of the scheme, especially the separation zone, as a designated anchorage area would be extremely dangerous and counterproductive to the scheme's purpose. **Option D (contains all the traffic moving in the same direction):** This describes a **Traffic Lane**, which is the area within the TSS designated for traffic moving in a single, specific direction. The Traffic Separation Zone separates these lanes, but it does not contain the traffic itself.