Task Description

Task name :

Develop guidance on delineating the VTS area

Leading committee and working group owning the task: VTS WG 1
Tasks associated (*leading) :
Task Leader :
Task Number : VTS-1.1.4
Standards : S1040 Vessel Traffic Services
Topic area : S1040.1 VTS Implementation
Task Description : Develop guidance on delineating the VTS area. considering risk assessment and MRN
Objectives of the task :

To assist contracting governments and competent authorities for VTS implementing a framework and procedures for establishing and delineating a VTS where the volume of traffic or the degree of risk justifies such services.

Expected outcome :

A new guideline or including a new section/annex in G1150 on considerations on delineating a VTS area.

Compelling need :

A VTS area is a delineated, formally declared area for which the VTS provider is authorized to deliver vessel traffic services. It is therefore important that the borders of the VTS area are clearly stated and that there are detailed guidance on what to consider when such an area should be established or changed.

At the IALA webinar on the new IMO Resolution A.1158(32) – Guidelines for Vessel Traffic Services on the 17 Feb. 2022, there were questions raised where to find guidance on what to consider when a VTS area should be established and how big or small such an area should be.

G1150 on Establishing, Planning and Implementing a VTS is describing on what to consider when a VTS is to be established. However, although some data to consider is mentioned, it is of a high level and it gives no guidance on the details of how the data should be assessed, e.g. where the borders should be best placed or how a VTS area may be subdivided in sub-areas or sectors. It should also give guidance on how to formally declare the service area of the VTS.

Strategic Alignment :

O2 - Develop applicable international standards, recommendations and guidelines for adoption and use by its members and other relevant organizations or parties.

Scope :

1. IMO Resolution A.1158(32) Guidelines for Vessel Traffic Services

2. IALA Standards and associated recommendations, guidelines and model courses specifically related to the establishment and operation of VTS and risk management toolbox.

3. Considerations only to the delineation of the VTS area

Cybersecurity related :

No

Brief and concise description of the work : to be undertaken and programme mile-stones (where appropriate).

VTS57 - Review Task (separate GL or included in G1150? and draft guidanve structure and collect information to be included.

VTS58 - Preparing of draft guidance

VTS59 - Guidance finalized and forwarded to Council for approval

Expected numbers of sessions for completion :
Session 54 Session 55 Session 56 Session 57 Session 58 Session 59 Session 60
v v >

Meaning of symbols for sessions :

v + x > <
Scheduled Progressed Not progressed Finalised On hold
Committee notes : Origins :
Approved by Council (Council session/Date) : 0
Notes from the council :
Status (Text) :
Status (Color) :
Not started
Remarks :

History of the task :