VTS Regulatory and Legal Framework Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which international convention provides the primary legal basis for the establishment of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)?

Accepted Answer

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)

Answer

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL)

Answer

International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)

Answer

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

Question 2

A VTS operator provides a vessel with an instruction to alter course to avoid a developing close-quarters situation. The master of the vessel believes this maneuver would place his vessel in immediate danger due to a strong cross-current. According to international guidelines, what is the master's primary responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Disregard the instruction if it compromises the safety of the vessel, and inform the VTS as soon as practicable.

Answer

Immediately comply with the VTS instruction without question.

Answer

Request a different instruction from the VTS.

Answer

Report the VTS operator to the competent authority for issuing a dangerous instruction.

Question 3

Under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 12, the use of a VTS may only be made mandatory in which of the following sea areas?

Accepted Answer

Only within the internationally recognized territorial seas of a coastal state.

Answer

In any area where a government has declared a VTS.

Answer

In international straits and archipelagic sea lanes.

Answer

In any area designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Question 4

Which of the following organizations is recognized by the IMO for developing detailed technical recommendations, guidelines, and model courses to ensure the global harmonization of VTS?

Accepted Answer

International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)

Answer

International Chamber of Shipping (ICS)

Answer

International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)

Answer

International Labour Organization (ILO)

Question 5

A VTS is established in a busy port approach with a high volume of traffic and complex navigational channels. Which type of service is a VTS most likely to provide to manage traffic flow and prevent congestion?

Accepted Answer

Traffic Organization Service

Answer

Information Service only

Answer

Navigational Assistance Service

Answer

Pilotage Service

Question 6

In the United States, the authority for the U.S. Coast Guard to establish and operate Vessel Traffic Services is primarily derived from which piece of legislation?

Accepted Answer

The Ports and Waterways Safety Act (PWSA)

Answer

The Clean Water Act

Answer

The Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA)

Answer

The Jones Act