Guideline G1089 on provision of VTS Ed2.0
This document has been approved by the Council 72 in principle for issue on adoption of the new IMO Resolution which will supersede A.857(20).
G1089 describes the principles and general provisions for the operation of a VTS and participating ships, the roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, competent authorities and VTS authorities, and qualifications and training of VTS Operators.
Since the adoption of A.857(20) more than 20 years ago, various organizational, operational and technological developments have taken place globally in a rapidly changing maritime domain. This has rendered important parts of the resolution open to differing interpretation, resulting in debate amongst stakeholders and a reduced ability to implement the Guidelines for Vessel Traffic Services in a consistent and harmonized manner.
In drafting this revision, guiding principles were established. These were:
- That the resolution and its associated guidelines should provide an appropriate high-level framework that is both clear and concise;
- That it should provide the link between SOLAS, the resolution and guidelines, other IMO documentation and requirements relevant to VTS and the IALA Standards;
- And finally, that it should address the key areas identified at MSC 99 that currently contribute to broad interpretation and debate with respect to VTS operations.
In summary, the document is prepared as an effective instrument that:
- provides a clear framework to implement Vessel Traffic Services globally in a harmonised manner;
- has a clear structure providing a link between SOLAS, the proposed resolution and guidelines, other IMO documentation and requirements relevant to VTS and the IALA Standards; and
- is future proof serving both those who have already established a Vessel Traffic Service and those seeking to establish one.
Downlaod the G1089 – Provision of a VTS – Issue pending adoption IMO Resolution
