Rule 40 Radar Reflectors

(a) Subject to paragraph (b), a vessel that is less than 20 metres in length or is constructed primarily of non-metallic materials shall, if practicable, be equipped with a radar reflector or other means to enable the vessel’s detection by other vessels navigating by radar at 3 GHz or 9 GHz.

(b) Paragraph (a) does not apply where

(i) a vessel operates in limited traffic conditions, daylight, and favourable environmental conditions and where compliance is not essential for the safety of the vessel, or

(ii) the small size of the vessel or its operation away from radar navigation makes compliance impracticable.

(c) The radar reflector or other means to enable detection prescribed in paragraph (a) shall, to the extent practicable, meet the requirements of

(i) sections 3 to 5 of the Annex to Resolution A.384(X), made by the Organization and as amended from time to time, if fitted before July 1, 2005,

(ii) sections 3 to 5 of the Annex to Resolution MSC.164(78), made by the Organization and as amended from time to time, if fitted on or after July 1, 2005, or

(iii) other performance standards that the Minister determines provide a level of safety that is equivalent to or higher than that of those standards.

(d) For the purpose of interpreting a document incorporated by reference into this Rule, “should” shall be read to mean “shall” and recommendations shall be mandatory.