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Lighting Requirements for Marine Vessels
A critical part of safe boating is complying with international and local lighting standards that allow the vessel to always maintain clear visibility. Marine vessel operators are responsible for ensuring all lighting meets relevant standards and regulations. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) publishes the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972, also known as Collision Regulations (COLREGs), which defines the requirements for navigation lights. Additionally, regulations specific to a vessel’s operating region established by local maritime authorities must also be considered.
Proper use and maintenance of several different types of lights are critical for safe marine operations. Each type must comply with maritime navigation regulations and play a specific role in ensuring that the vessel is visible to others and can effectively communicate its intentions.
A boat’s Navigation lights are critical to prevent collisions with other vessels. They indicate the boat’s position, heading, and status to other ships. Different types of navigation lights include sidelights (port and starboard), lights
for the stern and masthead, and an all-around white light.
Port and starboard sidelights identify the vessel's sides by their color difference, with red for the port (left) side and green for the starboard (right) side. Each light is visible over an arc of 112.5 degrees and shows from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its respective side.
The stern light is a white light placed at the stern (rear) of the vessel to allow visibility from behind. It is visible over an arc of 135 degrees and shows 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the boat.
The masthead light is also white and provides visibility from the front and sides. It is placed over the fore and behind the vessel's centerline and is visible over an arc of 225 degrees, showing from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on both sides of the boat. A masthead light is a requirement for power-driven vessels underway. An all-around white light that provides 360-degree visibility can replace the masthead and stern light on vessels under 39.4 feet. Depending on the vessel's status and type, an All-Around light can also be red, green, or yellow.
A white Anchor light visible in all directions lets others know when the vessel is anchored. Yellow towing lights, which have the same characteristics as the stern light, are used when towing another vessel and are visible from both the towing vessel and the one being towed.
While lighting to prevent collisions with other vessels is absolutely essential, operational safety and efficiency for those on board depend on another set of lights, including Deck, Work, Interior, and Emergency/Safety lighting.
Deck lights are needed to safely move around the vessel at night, while Work lights are used in specific work areas, such as loading/unloading zones, fishing areas, or when doing maintenance.
Proper interior lighting is essential for the comfort and functionality of living and workspaces. Interior lighting includes General lighting for living quarters, kitchens, and other common areas. Task lighting is similar to Work lighting in that it is used for specific tasks like reading, cooking, or navigation station operations.
Battery-powered Emergency lights that activate during power failures are critical to ensure safe movement from cabins and work areas. In addition, exit and escape route lighting, along with well-lit lifeboats and life rafts, are critical for safe evacuation in emergencies.
Austin Hardware can provide many different types of energy-efficient and durable lighting solutions for modern marine vessels. Today’s LEDs offer long life, low power consumption, and resistance to harsh marine environments. To review all our lighting options, check out the Lighting section of our website and contact your Austin Hardware sales representative or your nearest Austin Hardware location for more information on how we can help you.
Disclaimer: Information presented here is general, may not be all-inclusive, or representative of current or geographical legal requirements. Always check for the most recent, as well as local requirements, as they may change.
