Marine Horns

The emission of sound signals in uncertain weather conditions such as fog and heavy precipitation is prescribed and regulated by law for shipping. There are also regulations for boats in recreational shipping to be equipped with a sound signalling device that can be used directly in reduced visibility. According to the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions (COLREGs) and the Maritime Traffic Regulations, every ship is obliged to warn shipping by means of acoustic signals in the event of reduced visibility and to inform them of certain manoeuvres.

How the sounds of the horns differ


Sound signals are emitted by means of a gong, bell or whistle, whereby the term whistle also includes the so-called signalling horns and fog horns with a low-pitched sound. Depending on the size of the ship, different frequencies are prescribed so that the length of the ship can also be deduced from the sound of the ship's horn. For course changes, inability to manoeuvre, overtaking manoeuvres and anchoring, the COLREGs prescribe sound signals that consist of short and long tones given at certain intervals. A long tone lasts between 4 and 6 seconds, a short one about one second. The Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) regulates the authorisation of sound signalling systems on ships.

Regulations for signalling horns and ship horns


Vessels that are authorised to fly the German flag may only use signalling devices that comply with the COLREGs and are type-approved. Vessels over 12 metres must be equipped with an approved whistle. For vehicles under 12 metres, a device with which a powerful sound signal is possible is sufficient. The classic brass signal horn must be blown by the driver; a signal horn with compressed air is somewhat more convenient. However, the replaceable cartridge should be filled with non-flammable propellant gas.

Which horns are suitable for which boats and ships

Mobile horns are also ideal for use in regattas and on dinghies. Electric horns are intended for permanent installation on board. As an electric horn or double horn, they are connected to the 12 V on-board power supply. An electronic ship's horn as a double horn system produces high and low tones, which ensures particularly good audibility and a long sound range. However, the material and construction of an electric ship's horn should be seaworthy. Chrome-plated brass or stainless steel are sufficiently resistant to salt water, and the electrical wiring must be solidly protected. A robust electromagnetic design ensures reliability in an emergency. The Compass online shop at Compass24 offers first-class quality and various designs of signalling horns for water sports.

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