Inland Waters Small Passenger Boat Code

CATEGORY C & D WATERS

19        APPROPRIATE NAVIGATIONAL EQUIPMENT

19.1 Suitable navigation equipment should be carried for the area of operation. This should include an efficient magnetic compass, which is suitably adjusted and provided with a deviation card where appropriate.  

19.2 Alternatively, a fluxgate compass with suitable electrical backup supply may be fitted.  Where a fluxgate compass incorporates a capability to measure magnetic deviation by undertaking a calibration routine, and where the deviation figures are recorded within the device, a deviation card is not required.

19.3 Current or corrected nautical charts, nautical publications and tide time-tables for the area of operation should be carried where appropriate.

19.4 Radar reflectors or transponders should be fitted in order to enhance radar visibility.  These should be approved to current IMO performance standards, or other means.  On small vessels, where it is not practicable for an efficient radar reflector to be fitted, they should not operate in fog, and if visibility starts to deteriorate they should return to their mooring.  

19.5 A sailing vessel should carry appropriate means of clearing rigging for use in the event of dismasting.

19.6 In all vessels, a water-resistant torch (suitable for signalling) and a suitable boat hook should be provided.

19.7 An emergency response plan should be carried detailing procedures for calling emergency services, ambulance, fire brigade and coast guard etc.  This may form part of the Safety Management System (see paragraph 2.1 and 2.2), and may be in the form of a simple flow chart.