General application notes

Please note: The following information has been reproduced from Part C (Lights and Shapes) of the Prevention of Collision at Sea Regulations 1983 (external link). The purpose of the reproduction is to explain "graphically'' the requirements of navigation lights on a variety of vessels.

1. These requirements are to be read in conjunction with the Prevention of Collision at Sea Regulations 1983 and apply to vessels for which certificates of survey are required to be issued under the Western Australian Marine Act 1983 (external link).

2. Design of mountings is to be such that:
   1. Excessive vibration which may effect the operation of the light does not occur.

   2. The light or parts of the light can be exchanged easily and all parts easily accessible for cleaning and servicing.

3. Lights on fixed mountings are to be fitted:
   1. According to the manufacturer instructions.

   2. Parallel and perpendicular to the construction water line.

   3. That the beam from the light is not obscured through an arc of 6º above and below the horizontal fore and aft and athwart ship axis of the lens, by any part of the vessel or equipment.

4. Lights with a defined horizontal arc of visibility shall be mounted so that their position cannot be changed, the fixture shall not interfere with the operation of the light and the zero marking on the light shall be parallel with the fore and aft centre line of the vessel.

5. Lights shall be mounted such that their operation is not affected by engine exhausts or fumes.

Electric wiring to lights

1. Wiring for each navigation light shall be on the two wire insulated system.

2. Where a lantern has a short length of flexible cable, the fitting or box into which it is to be plugged shall:
   1. permit a watertight electrical connection; and

   2. be supplied by fixed wiring.

3. Navigation lights shall be supplied by a separate sub-circuit and each light protected individually by a fuse or circuit breaker. The distribution board shall be located in the wheelhouse.

4. The masthead and anchor lights shall be individually switched. The side lights and stern light may be operated by a single switch.

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