Part B-IBasic
Rule 4: Section I application
Section I is always active, regardless of visibility.
Detailed Explanation
Rules 4 to 10 apply in any visibility condition. Even in dense fog, these baseline conduct rules still apply, with Rule 19 adding specific restricted-visibility actions.
Key Points
- Rules 4-10 apply in ALL visibility conditions
- Fog adds Rule 19 but never suspends Section I
- Section I is the always-on baseline of conduct
Examples
- In dense fog you observe a radar target 6 miles ahead. Rules 5-10 still apply in full; you begin plotting immediately and post an extra lookout.
- A container ship transits a TSS in clear weather. Section I (Rules 4-10) governs her conduct; should visibility drop, Rule 19 adds additional obligations on top.
Common Mistakes
- Believing Rules 4-10 only apply in good visibility and can be suspended in fog.
- Forgetting that Section I rules remain fully active even when Rule 19 also applies in restricted visibility.