Under what condition can a vessel engaged in laying or servicing submarine cables in a TSS be exempt from compliance?

A vessel engaged in laying or servicing submarine cables in a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) can be exempt from compliance with certain regulations when it is necessary to carry out the operation. This acknowledges that the unique nature of the activity may require deviations from standard navigation rules to effectively complete the task. For instance, laying cables may involve specific maneuvers or temporary restrictions on movement that are crucial to ensure successful operation, thereby justifying an exemption under the regulations.

Maintaining this flexibility is essential not only for the completion of the operation but also for minimizing disruption to marine traffic, as these vessels would still be required to operate in a safe manner to avoid endangering other vessels or causing accidents.