9.1 Steering
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - MCA Publications - MGN 280 - Small Vessels in Commercial Use for Sport or Pleasure, Workboats and Pilot Boats - Alternative Construction Standards - 9 Steering Gear, Rudder and Propeller Systems - 9.1 Steering

9.1 Steering

  9.1.1 A vessel should be provided with efficient means of steering.

  9.1.2 The control position should be located so that the person conning the vessel has a clear view for the safe navigation of the vessel.

  9.1.3 When steering gear is fitted with remote control, arrangements should be made for emergency steering in the event of failure of the control. Arrangements may take the form of the following, and be to the satisfaction of the Certifying Authority:-

  • .1 a tiller to fit the head of the rudder stock; or

  • .2 a rod attachment which may be fitted to a Z-drive framework; or

  • .3 a steering oar; or

  • .4 in the case of twin screw vessels manipulation of power distribution between the drives. In the case of twin stern-drive arrangements, means should be provided to lock the drives in the midships position; or

  • .5 in the case of a vessel fitted with outboard(s), a means to control the direction of thrust.

  9.1.4 If emergency steering is impractical, alternative safety measures and/or procedures to deal with any steering failure situation should be agreed with the Certifying Authority. (The Certifying Authority may consider the application of restrictions to the service area of the vessel.)

  9.1.5 Steering systems should comply with an appropriate standard for small craft steering systems (see Standards Annex 13).

Parent topic: 9 Steering Gear, Rudder and Propeller Systems
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