# The Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975, Article 46: Steering gear—vessels of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length fitted with rudders


(1) Every vessel of 12 metres in length and over but less than 24.4 metres in length to which these Rules apply shall be provided with efficient main steering gear and auxiliary means of steering.
(2) In every such vessel—
(a) the main steering gear including the rudder and associated fittings shall be of adequate strength and capable of steering the vessel at maximum ahead service speed and shall be so designed that they are not damaged at maximum astern speed or by maneouvring during fishing operations;
(b) the auxiliary means of steering shall be capable of being brought rapidly into action and shall enable the vessel to be steered at a navigable speed.
(3) In every such vessel the main steering gear shall be capable of turning the rudder from 35° on one side to 30° on the other in 30 seconds when the vessel is at navigable speed and from 20° on one side to 20° on the other in 30 seconds when the vessel is at maximum service speed, with the rudder totally submerged.
(4) Every such vessel shall be so constructed that the person steering has a clear view ahead when at the principal steering station.
(5) Every such vessel which is fitted with power operated steering gear shall have a rudder position indicator in the wheelhouse.

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Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1975/330/article/46 (the official version)
Page: https://openlegislation.uk/fishing-vessels-safety-provisions-rules-1975/article-46
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives.