OMI - 904Fe - Convention sur le Règlement international de 1972 pour prévenir les abordages en mer

IMO 904Fe – International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972

Essential Reference for Maritime Safety

The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGS) form the cornerstone of maritime navigation safety. This digital publication provides the consolidated text of the convention, incorporating all amendments adopted since 1972, including those from 1981, 1987, 1989, 1993, and 2001. Designed for professionals in the merchant marine, this document ensures compliance with the latest international standards for collision avoidance at sea.

Comprehensive and Up-to-Date Content

This digital edition replaces the 2002 consolidated version, offering an updated and authoritative resource for maritime operators. It includes 41 rules divided into six parts, along with four annexes that cover critical aspects of navigation, such as steering and sailing rules, lights and shapes, and sound and light signals. Whether you're a shipmaster, officer, or maritime authority, this publication provides the precise guidelines needed to navigate safely in all conditions.

Structured for Clarity and Compliance

The COLREGS are meticulously organized to address every scenario a vessel might encounter. Key sections include:

• Part A: General provisions, including application and responsibility.
• Part B: Steering and sailing rules, covering conduct in any visibility, restricted visibility, and narrow channels.
• Part C: Lights and shapes, detailing the visual signals required for different types of vessels.
• Part D: Sound and light signals, specifying the auditory and visual signals for maneuvering and warning.
• Part E: Exemptions, outlining specific cases where vessels may be exempt from certain rules.
• Annexes: Technical specifications for lights, shapes, and sound signals, including the minimum range of visibility for lights and the frequency of sound signals.

This structure ensures that maritime professionals can quickly reference the rules applicable to their situation, reducing the risk of misinterpretation and enhancing safety at sea.

Digital Accessibility for Modern Maritime Operations

Available in a secure PDF format, this digital publication is designed for ease of use and accessibility. It can be read using the free IMO e-reader, ensuring compatibility with most devices. The locked format guarantees that the content remains unaltered, preserving its integrity and reliability. This digital version is ideal for professionals who need instant access to the regulations, whether on board a vessel or in an office setting.

Critical Regulations for Every Vessel

The COLREGS apply to all vessels, regardless of size, and are enforceable in international waters. Key regulations include:

• Rule 9: Navigation in narrow channels, requiring vessels under 20 meters to avoid impeding larger ships.
• Rule 33: Sound signal requirements, mandating that vessels of 12 meters or more carry a whistle and a bell, while those of 100 meters or more must also have a gong.
• Rule 10: Traffic separation schemes, which provide guidelines for navigating high-traffic areas safely.

These rules are not just recommendations—they are legally binding and essential for preventing collisions and ensuring the safety of life at sea.

Trusted by Maritime Professionals Worldwide

Published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), this document is recognized as the global standard for collision avoidance. It is used by maritime authorities, shipping companies, and training institutions to ensure that all personnel are equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate safely. By adhering to these regulations, professionals contribute to the reduction of maritime accidents and the protection of the marine environment.