9A STEERING GEAR - VESSELS OF LESS THAN 500 GT

Objective:- This section outlines the minimum requirements for Steering Gear Classification, which are to be in accordance with the requirements of a recognised Classification Society. The Class Notation should cover the minimum aspects defined within this chapter. Due regard is to be paid to the requirements for emergency steering.

9A.1 General Requirements

The steering gear and its installation should, in general, meet with the requirements of one of the Classification Societies named in the National Annex.

In the event that the above requirements cannot be met on an existing vessel, the Administration may be requested to consider and approve alternative arrangements to achieve adequate safety standards.

9A.2 Vessels should be provided with means for directional control of adequate strength and suitable design to enable the heading and direction of travel to be effectively controlled at all operating speeds. When appropriate to the safe steering of the vessel, the steering gear should be power operated in accordance with the requirements of the Administration.

9A.3 When the steering gear is fitted with remote control, arrangements should be made for emergency steering in the event of a failure of such control.