In restricted visibility, when underway, signals should be given NOT MORE THAN what interval?

In conditions of restricted visibility, the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) provide specific guidance regarding the sound signals vessels must make to ensure safety. When a vessel is underway in such conditions, it is required to make appropriate sound signals to alert other vessels of its presence and status. The regulations dictate that these signals should be sounded at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

This frequency is intended to balance safety and communication, ensuring that vessels can effectively signal their presence without causing unnecessary noise. It allows for other vessels in proximity to be aware of each other's movements, thereby reducing the risk of collisions.

While shorter intervals might seem more precautionary, the 2-minute rule is established as a standard that maintains effective communication without causing excessive disruption. This approach takes into account the auditory limitations that can accompany restricted visibility, ensuring sound signals are both timely and manageable.