18Lighting and Marking of Exploration and Exploitation Vessels and Platforms

Rule 42 of the Collision Regulations requires that exploration and exploitation vessels when on station or engaged in drilling or production operations exhibit a white light or series of lights flashing in unison the Morse Code letter U (..-) at intervals of not more than 15 seconds. These lights are in lieu of lights required elsewhere in the Regulations and must be visible all around the horizon at a range of 15 miles.

These vessels are also required to be fitted with sound signal appliances that sound the Morse Code letter U (..-) at 30 second intervals in restricted visibility.

The horizontal and vertical extremities of an exploration or exploitation vessel are lighted and marked in accordance with the requirements set out in the Standard 621-Obstruction Markings and Lighting published under authority of the Aeronautics Act.

The owner or operator of an exploration or exploitation vessel having a derrick extending more than 60 m above the water should inform the appropriate Regional Manager, Marine Safety of its location or movements so action may be initiated to inform low-flying aircraft.

Authority: Transport Canada