VTS Communication Procedures 4

Question 1

A vessel reports engine failure while transiting a VTS zone. What is the FIRST communication action the VTS operator should take?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the report, assess the situation, and notify other vessels of a hazard if warranted

Answer

The operator must first acknowledge and gather situational information before escalating; a SECURITE broadcast may follow if other traffic is at risk.

Question 2

In IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases, what does the phrase 'Do you require a pilot?' mean?

Accepted Answer

Is your vessel in need of a licensed maritime pilot for navigation assistance?

Answer

In SMCP, 'pilot' refers to a maritime pilot — a licensed navigator who boards vessels to guide them through ports, harbors, or other restricted waters.

Question 3

What channel is typically designated as the primary VTS working channel in U.S. ports and waterways?

Accepted Answer

Channel 65A

Answer

Channel 65A (156.275 MHz) is frequently designated as a VTS working channel in U.S. ports, though local assignments vary by port authority.

Question 4

A VTS operator receives an unintelligible transmission. Which is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

Transmit 'UNKNOWN STATION, YOUR TRANSMISSION WAS UNINTELLIGIBLE, SAY AGAIN' on the working channel

Answer

Standard procedure is to inform the unknown station that their transmission was unintelligible and request they repeat, using clear standard phraseology.

Question 5

The proword 'OUT' at the end of a transmission means:

Accepted Answer

This conversation is ended and no reply is expected

Answer

'OUT' signals the end of a transmission when no reply is expected, indicating the exchange is complete.

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test

VTS Communication Procedures 4