What is a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) and its purpose?

• A. A designated route system to separate opposing streams of traffic and reduce collision risk; vessels should follow the lanes and signals.
• B. A radio channel for distress signals.
• C. A maritime boundary for fishing.
• D. A scheduling system for ship arrivals.

Answer: (A)

Traffic Separation Scheme is a routing measure designed to manage crowded sea lanes by creating lanes for traffic moving in opposite directions and a separation zone between them. The main purpose is to reduce collision risk by organizing and predicting the flow of vessels in busy areas, such as approaches to harbors or narrow channels. Because the traffic is directed into defined tracks, vessels are expected to stay in the designated lanes and follow the markings or signals that indicate the direction of travel. Entering or leaving the scheme should be done at designated points, and crossing the separation zone is generally avoided unless necessary, with careful consideration of other traffic and the rules of the road. This combination of lane discipline and prescribed routes is what makes a TSS effective at preventing head-on and crossing collisions in high-traffic waterways.