VTS Safety Procedures 3

Question 1

When two vessels report they are on a collision course in a VTS area, what is the VTS operator's role?

Accepted Answer

Provide traffic information and recommendations; vessel masters retain the decision authority

Answer

VTS operators provide information and may issue recommendations, but the master of each vessel retains final responsibility for safe navigation.

Question 2

A vessel carrying hazardous cargo reports a fuel spill in the harbor. What is the VTS operator's FIRST notification beyond the vessel?

Accepted Answer

The National Response Center (NRC)

Answer

Federal law requires notification to the National Response Center for all reportable oil or hazardous substance spills in navigable waters.

Question 3

What does a vessel's bridge-to-bridge radio silence indicate to a VTS operator?

Accepted Answer

A potential emergency or communication equipment failure requiring follow-up

Answer

Unexpected radio silence can indicate an emergency or equipment failure, requiring the VTS operator to attempt contact and possibly alert SAR.

Question 4

Under the COLREGS, which sound signal indicates a vessel is operating in restricted visibility?

Accepted Answer

One prolonged blast every two minutes (power-driven vessel underway)

Answer

A power-driven vessel underway in restricted visibility sounds one prolonged blast at intervals of not more than two minutes.

Question 5

A vessel reports it has run aground in a shipping channel. Which VTS action has the highest immediate safety priority?

Accepted Answer

Protect the grounded vessel from traffic and prevent further incidents

Answer

Immediately protecting the grounded vessel from traffic prevents collisions and secondary casualties while salvage is arranged.

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test