Regulation 24
Use of heading and/or track control systems
Regulation
1 In areas of high traffic density, in conditions of restricted visibility and in all other hazardous navigational situations where heading and/or track control systems are in use, it shall be possible to establish manual control of the ship's steering immediately.
2 In circumstances as above, the officer in charge of the navigational watch shall have available without delay the services of a qualified helmsperson who shall be ready at all times to take over steering control.
3 The change-over from automatic to manual steering and vice versa shall be made by or under the supervision of a responsible officer.
1 The manual steering shall be tested after prolonged use of heading and/or track control systems, and before entering areas where navigation demands special caution.
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Summary
Regulations 24, 25 and 26 together with the accompanying Guidance Notes supersede the Merchant Shipping (Automatic Pilot and Testing of Gear) Regulations 1981 (SI 1981 no. 571) and MGN 54 – “Use of Automatic pilots" (Heading Control Systems).
Regulation 24 covers use of heading/track control systems, changing from automatic to manual steering and vice versa and periodic testing.
Guidance Notes
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to Guidelines on Steering Gear and Heading/Track Control Systems