Steady As

Rule 44 Ocean Data Acquisition Systems (ODAS)

Collision Regulations

(a) Every Canadian ODAS shall clearly display its identification number on an exterior surface where it can be clearly seen and, if practicable, shall display the name and address of the owner of the ODAS.

(b) Subject to paragraph (f), every ODAS shall be constructed or fitted with a radar reflector, or other means, that has a radar response that at least meets the requirements set out in Rule 40.

(c) Every ODAS that is designed to operate while floating with part of its structure extending above the water shall

(i) be coloured yellow,

(ii) have a shape that cannot be confused with the shape of a navigational mark, and

(iii) where technically practicable,

(A) have a topmark consisting of a yellow “X” shape,

(B) exhibit a yellow light visible at a minimum range of five miles that gives a group of five flashes every 20 seconds, and

(C) be equipped with an appliance that emits a sound signal at intervals of not more than two minutes, which sound signal cannot be confused with any other signal prescribed by these Rules or with the sound signal of any aid to navigation in the vicinity of the ODAS.

(d) Subject to paragraph (f), every ODAS designed to operate under water, other than an ODAS referred to in paragraph (e), shall

(i) be escorted by a surface vessel that gives warning of the presence of the ODAS in accordance with Rule 27, or

(ii) have tethered to it a surface float that is marked, provides the radar response, is lighted and sounds the signals specified in paragraphs (a) to (c).

(e) Every ODAS designed to operate when resting on the bottom of a sea, lake or river with part of its structure extending above the water shall be marked, exhibit lights and shapes, and sound signals in the same manner as an exploration or exploitation vessel.

(f) Paragraphs (b) and (d) do not apply to an ODAS where

(i) the Minister has determined that the ODAS does not constitute a potential danger to navigation by reason of

(A) its size, material, construction, area or method of operation,

(B) the nature and condition of the waters in the area of operation of the ODAS, and

(C) the use that is or might reasonably be expected to be made of those waters, and

(ii) the Minister has given the owner of the ODAS notice in writing of that determination.

Canada Collision Regulations last amended on 7 June 2023. Official text: laws-lois.justice.gc.ca.

Reproduced from the Justice Laws Website under the Reproduction of Federal Law Order. This is not the official version of the Collision Regulations: the official version is on laws-lois.justice.gc.ca.