USCG Exam PracticeRule 27 — NUC and RAM (lights)
A vessel engaged in mine clearance operations exhibits three all-round green lights: one near the foremast head and one at each end of the fore yard. What is the significance of these lights to an approaching vessel?
- ✓ It is dangerous to approach within 1000 meters of the mine clearance vesselCorrect
- B. It is dangerous to approach within 500 meters of the mine clearance vessel
- C. The vessel has an obstruction on both sides and no vessel may pass
- D. The vessel is not under command and requires assistance
Why A is correct
33 CFR §83.27(f) states that the three all-round green lights (or three balls by day) displayed by a mine clearance vessel indicate that it is dangerous for another vessel to approach within 1000 meters. These signals are distinct from NUC or RAM signals and are not distress signals per §83.27(h).
Cited:33 CFR §83.27