Trafiksepareringsscheman

Trafiksepareringsscheman, often abbreviated as TSS, are a system of routing measures designed to keep ships separated in busy shipping lanes. They are established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and are primarily used in areas with high vessel traffic density, narrow channels, or where the risk of collision is otherwise elevated. The fundamental principle of a TSS is to divide the traffic into different streams, typically by direction of travel, and to provide specific routes for inbound and outbound vessels.

These scheman can include separation zones, one-way traffic lanes, and precautionary areas. Separation zones are areas of sea separating traffic streams or separating a traffic stream from the area in which ships are prohibited from entering. One-way traffic lanes are designated routes where vessels are expected to travel in a specific direction. Precautionary areas may be established to introduce special precautionary measures for navigation, such as restricting certain types of traffic or requiring specific speeds.

The implementation of TSS aims to reduce the risk of collisions at sea by providing clear navigational guidance and minimizing potential conflicts between vessels. Vessels navigating within a TSS are generally required to adhere to the prescribed routes and observe the rules associated with these scheman, which are detailed in IMO's Ships' Routeing guidelines. While TSS are highly effective, they do not absolve mariners of their responsibility to maintain a proper lookout and to take all necessary actions to avoid a collision.