3.1 Responsibility for planning and implementing a VTS
It is the responsibility of Governments or competent authorities to plan and implement vessel traffic services or amendments to such services.
3.2 Guidance for planning a vessel traffic service
3.2.1 Local needs for traffic management should be carefully investigated and determined by analysing casualties, assessing risks and consulting local user groups. Where the risks are considered VTS-addressable, in cases where monitoring of the traffic and interaction between Authority and participating vessel is considered to be essential, the implementation of a VTS, as an important traffic management instrument, should be considered.
3.2.2 A VTS is particularly appropriate in an area that may include any of the following:
3.2.2.1 high traffic density;
3.2.2.2 traffic carrying hazardous cargoes;
3.2.2.3 conflicting and complex navigation patterns;
3.2.2.4 difficult hydrographical, hydrological and meteorological elements;
3.2.2.5 shifting shoals and other local hazards;
3.2.2.6 environmental considerations;
3.2.2.7 interference by vessel traffic with other waterborne activities;
3.2.2.8 a record of maritime casualties;
3.2.2.9 existing or planned vessel traffic services in adjacent waters and the need for co-operation between neighbouring States, if appropriate;
3.2.2.10 narrow channels, port configuration, bridges, locks, bends and similar areas where the progress of vessels may be restricted;
3.2.2.11 existing or foreseeable changes in the traffic pattern in the area.
3.2.3 In further deciding upon the establishment of a VTS, Governments or competent authorities should also consider the responsibilities, set forth in 2.2 of these Guidelines, and the availability of the requisite technology and expertise.
3.3 Further guidance on vessel traffic services
3.3.1 VTS Authorities should, in the planning of the VTS to be established, make use of available manuals prepared by and published by appropriate international organisations or associations.
3.3.2 The following references should also be consulted for further details and applicability:
3.3.2.1 The IALA Vessel Traffic Services Manual
3.3.2.2 The IALA/IMPA/IAPH World VTS Guide
3.3.2.3 The IALA Recommendations relevant to VTS
