Navigation lights are critical for safe vessel operation, especially at night or during poor visibility. They communicate a vessel’s position, heading, and status to others, reducing the risk of collision. But what happens when a navigation light fails? Understanding the correct emergency procedures is essential for both compliance and safety.

Activate Emergency or Backup Lights

Most modern vessels are equipped with backup or emergency navigation lights. When a primary navigation light fails, these emergency lights should be activated immediately. They are designed to provide the minimum required illumination for your vessel to remain visible to nearby ships and comply with International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

Emergency lights often include battery-powered or manually switched lamps that replicate the position and color of the original navigation lights. Ensuring they are operational before departure is a key part of routine maintenance checks.

Use Portable or Handheld Lights if Needed

If the vessel does not have integrated emergency lights or additional units fail, portable lights or handheld searchlights can temporarily substitute for fixed navigation lights. Red, green, and white lights must be used in accordance with standard navigation light placement:

• Port side (left): red light
• Starboard side (right): green light
• Stern (rear): white light

While portable lights are not a perfect substitute for permanent navigation lights, they help maintain visibility and signal compliance until repairs can be made.

Reduce Speed and Increase Vigilance

During a navigation light failure, vessel operators should reduce speed and maintain a heightened watch for other traffic. Visibility is compromised, and relying solely on emergency lights or portable lamps is less effective than normal operation. Slower movement allows more reaction time and reduces the risk of collision in congested or restricted waterways.

Repair and Document the Fault

As soon as practical, the faulty navigation light should be repaired or replaced. Many maritime authorities require documentation of the failure and the emergency measures taken, especially if the vessel enters port or operates in busy shipping lanes while a light is inoperative. This ensures compliance with safety regulations and protects the crew from potential liability.

Conclusion

Navigation light failure does not have to create immediate danger if proper procedures are followed. Activating backup lights, using portable lamps correctly, reducing speed, and maintaining a careful lookout can keep the vessel safe while ensuring compliance with COLREGs. Regular inspection and maintenance of both primary and emergency lights remain the best prevention against such failures.