2.5.3 Operating procedures
Where operating procedures are concerned, a distinction should be made between internal and external procedures. Internal procedures cover operating instruments, interactions among the staff and the internal routeing and distribution of data. External procedures cover interactions with users and allied services. A further distinction should be made between procedures governing the daily routine and procedures governing contingency planning such as search and rescue and environmental protection activities. All operational procedures, routine or contingency, should be laid down in handbooks or manuals and be an integral part of regular training exercises. Adherence to procedures should be monitored.
2.5.4 Database
A VTS authority should have, if necessary for the operation of the service, a database with the capacity to retain, update, supplement and retrieve data once collected. Any data retained in a system for further use should be made available only on a selective and secure basis.
2.6 Participating vessels
2.6.1 Vessels navigating in an area where vessel traffic services are provided should make use of these services. Depending upon governing rules and regulations, participation in a VTS may be either voluntary or mandatory. Vessels should be allowed to use a VTS where mandatory participation is not required.
2.6.2 Decisions concerning the actual navigation and the manoeuvring of the vessel remain with the master. Neither a VTS sailing plan, nor requested or agreed changes to the sailing plan can supersede the decisions of the master concerning the actual navigation and manoeuvring of the vessel.
2.6.3 Communication with the VTS and other vessels should be conducted in accordance with established procedures, in particular where a communication concerns intended manoeuvres. When maritime vessels are involved use should be made of the SOLAS Chapter IV procedures where appropriate. VTS procedures should stipulate what communications are required and which communication systems should be monitored. Prior to entering the VTS area, vessels should make all required reports, including reporting of deficiencies. During their passage through the VTS area, vessels should adhere to governing rules and regulations, maintain a continuous watch on the assigned communication systems and report deviations from the agreed sailing plan, if such a plan has been established in co-operation with the VTS authority.
2.6.4 Masters of vessels should report any observed dangers to navigation or pollution to the VTS centre.
2.6.5 In case of a complete failure of the vessel's appropriate communication equipment the master shall endeavour to inform the VTS centre and other vessels in the vicinity by any other available means of communication of the vessel's inability to communicate in the appropriate manner. If the technical failure prevents the vessel from participation or continuing its participation in a VTS, the master should enter in the vessel's log, if applicable, the fact and reasons for not or further participating.
2.6.6 Vessels should carry publications giving full particulars on governing rules and regulations regarding identification, reporting and/or conduct in the VTS area to be entered.
3 GUIDANCE FOR PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICES
