Teaching IRPCS (Collision Regulations) at Powerboat Level 2

CAN: 

  • Apply IRPCS, principally rules 5 - 9 and 12-18

As an instructor it is essential that you are familiar with the collision regs.Remember you are not only responsible for the safety of your students but also for teaching them correctly so that they leave your course with a sound and correct understanding.It is strongly recommended that each instructor has a copy of the RYA’s version of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.These clearly state each rule, followed by a simple detailed explanation.In brief the rules to be taught at Level 2 to the competency of CAN are: 

  • Rule 5 - Look out
  • Rule 6 - Safe Speed
  • Rule 7 - Risk of Collision
  • Rule 8 - Actions to Avoid Collision
  • Rule 9 - Narrow Channels
  • Rule 12 - Sailing Vessels
  • Rule 13 - Overtaking
  • Rule 14 - Head-on Situation
  • Rule 15 - Crossing Situation
  • Rule 16 - Action by give-way Vessel
  • Rule 17 - Action by Stand-on Vessel Responsibilities between
  • Rule 18 - Vessels Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility
Find out more about what the IRPCS rule numbers mean?

2022 RYA Update:

As a result of the RIB Tickler / PWC collision incident (see MAIB report below)

The following points should now also be discussed on all RYA Powerboat Level 2 and PWCP courses:

Safety points: 

  • Shoulder checks and general awareness
  • Cruising in Company 
  • Wake jumping - where NOT to do 
  • Letting a 'newbie' take the helm - include the essentials: killcord, controls, communications, shoulder checks, sweeping turns. 
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Ideas on how to teach the IRPCS session using an E.D.I.C.T.S. teaching structure:

Explain the rules using flash cards, magnetic boats or illustratons

Demonstrate the correct actions to take in each situation using model boats

Imitate: Set up scenarios using models or drawings and ask your students to show the correct actions to take

Correction: Should your student/s get any imitation incorrect, offer a praise burger and ask open questions to seek the correct response / knowledge level. 

Training (Try Again): Set up a new scenario and re-check your student/s understanding

 

AFLOAT: When presented with potential collision situations with other vessels, ensure you students take the correct actions.