Navigation in Restricted Visibility

Actions and considerations must be taken in ample time before the visibility deteriorates. If restricted
visibility is encountered or anticipated, the OOW shall immediately:
 Call the Master,
 Notify engine room, proceed at a safe speed, and ensure engines are ready for immediate
manoeuvre
 Increase the frequency of position fixing as necessary
 Engage manual steering or be ready to do so if required
 Post additional lookout(s) as required
 Ensure that the navigation lights are switched ON
 Sound whistle signals as prescribed by the Rules of the Road
 Comply with COLREGS as applicable to conduct in reduced visibility

The OOW shall also reconfirm that the following equipment is fully operational:
 Radar, ARPA, or other plotting facilities
 VHF‐radio equipment; GMDSS, AIS, NAVTEX
 GPS
 Clearview screens and wipers
 Course Recorder (if fitted)
 Fog signal/line apparatus
 Navigation lights
 Echo Sounder
 Watertight doors (if fitted)
 Public address system

NOTE: “Restricted” or “Low visibility” is defined as a condition when visibility is 5 NM or less.

Actions and considerations must be taken in ample time before the visibility deteriorates. If restricted
visibility is encountered or anticipated, the OOW shall immediately inform master and comply with
checklist (F5.14 Navigation in Restricted Visibility) & in addition the following shall be complied with:
1. The Master is to be always present on the Bridge during restricted visibility, except during
prolonged periods when he may be relieved by the Chief Officer.
2. If there is any doubt as to the vessel’s position and navigating in confined or shallow waters, the
possibility of anchoring the vessel must be considered.
3. A minimum visibility of 1 NM or the local port regulations regarding minimum visibility requirement
whichever is more stringent shall be complied with when arriving/departing a port or berth. A
breach of this requires express office approval and a risk assessment to be carried out.
Notwithstanding above, the vessel shall not arrive or depart a port or berth in restricted visibility if
the Master feels it is unsafe to do so.
4. If visibility deteriorates unexpectedly during the passage Master should not hesitate to abort the
manoeuvre and in consultation with the Pilot and/or Port Authorities, anchor in a safe place or
remain at the berth until such time that conditions improve, and it is safe to resume passage.