code_of_practice_V3_2019

7.10.5 In the event that the MASS experiences loss or compromise of Situational Awareness as well as loss of data-link,
then Emergency Stop should be immediately initiated (making appropriate sound and visual signals when
appropriate).
8.11 PROPULSION CONTROL
8.11.1 MASS should have propulsion control as far as necessary to be capable of ensuring that safe operating speeds
appropriate to its situation are not exceeded.
8.12 STEERING CONTROL
8.12.1 The MASS should have steering control as may be necessary to maintain a safe heading. Note that ‘passive’
MASS, such as drifting sensor buoys, do not have steering control, but the risk is mitigated by deploying in safe
areas and monitoring their position, and maintaining the ability to recover the MASS when necessary.
8.12.2 Note on Heading vs Course Over ground (COG). Marine craft may have control of heading but limited control of
Course Over Ground (COG) because of environmental influences such as surface currents, waves, or wind,
ombined with low Speed Through the Water (STW). The risk posed by potential loss of control over COG shall
be addressed by means of situational awareness, using sensor and almanac data or calculations as necessary
to anticipate environmental influences, so as to avoid bringing the MASS into a situation where it is predictably
carried in an unsafe direction by overwhelming environmental influences.
8.13 COLREG – COMPLIANT BEHAVIOURS AND FAIL-SAFES
8.13.1 The Control System shall be capable of operating to a level of compliance with COLREGS appropriate to the
MASS class.
8.13.2 The Control System may include a system or systems designed to sense and avoid obstacles. These obstacles
may be fixed (e.g. coastline) or moving (drifting or other craft).
8.13.3 Sense and Avoid systems may be deemed necessary:
n When operating within Line of Sight (LOS), as directed by area control authorities;
n When operating outside LOS.
8.13.4 The performance of Sense and Avoid systems may be categorised using the following criteria and the ability to:
n Accept externally defined fixed exclusion zones (e.g. based on geographical data);
n Accept externally directed control (third party) (e.g. VTS);
n Accept dynamic data on both fixed and moving obstacles via automatic electronic sensors (such as AIS,
Radar with automatic target tracking (ATT);
n Take control of the MASS heading;
n ake control of the MASS propulsion;
n Interpret Situational Awareness sensor data automatically to provide the following information regarding any
other object within range:
a. its position;
b. whether it is a vessel according to COLREGs;
MASS UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice Version 3 57