INTERIM OPERATIONAL NOTES
CARDIFF BAY BARRAGE
COMMUNICATIONS
VHF Radio Channel 18, Call Sign "Barrage Control".
Telephone 01222 700234
LIGHTS AND SIGNALS
A series of lights will be displayed at the lock entrance. The relevant lock number is shown beneath the light signal.
| RED FLASHING* |
EMERGENCY CONDITION. STOP! CONTACT BARRAGE CONTROL FOR INSTRUCTIONS |
| RED FLASHING* | |
| RED FLASHING* | |
| RED | VESSELS SHALL NOT PROCEED |
| RED | |
| RED | |
| GREEN | VESSELS MAY PROCEED |
| GREEN | |
| GREEN | |
| GREEN | A VESSEL MAY PROCEED WHEN IT HAS RECEIVED SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO DO SO FROM BARRAGE CONTROL |
| WHITE | |
| GREEN |
Locking out will commence when there is a height of water of 1.0 m over the inner lock sill (sill height 5.8 m + CD.) Lock bookings may be made for the period up to high water only. Bookings may be made for a period of up to two weeks in advance. For lock bookings contact barrage control. If you decide not to sail, please cancel your booking.
PRIORITY VESSELS / WHEN LOCKINGNo vessel has priority over any other vessel with the following exceptions :- When a vessel has booked a lock. In an emergency. At the lock masters discretion.For a vessel with a 1.5 m draft predicted access would normally be approximately 2.5 hours after either side of high water. The skippers of all vessels are requested to ensure the are aware of their vessel draft (i.e. the depth of the vessel below the water line.) Depth boards are located adjacent to the lock entrance.
LOCKING OUT PROCEDURECall barrage control 15 minutes before your scheduled lock to confirm your readiness. Listen on VHF Ch 18 for the lockmasters instructions to enter the lock. Moor as far forward in the lock as possible using appropriate lines and fenders. Exit the lock only when the lock gates are fully open. Note: if you require a lock out but have not booked, contact barrage control for a lock out time (you could experience a long delay if you have not booked!)
LOCKING IN PROCEDURECall barrage control on VHF Ch 18 and request a lock in. Give details as instructed The lock master will enter your vessel's name on a list and call you into the outer harbour where you may hold onto a barge until your lock is ready. Do not enter the outer harbour until instructed to do so. Check lock lights. The outer harbour is still a construction site and out-bound vessels may be departing. Whilst waiting for a lock remember to keep clear of commercial vessels entering or departing from Queen Alexandra Dock. These vessels have right of way.
QUEUE JUMPINGUnder no circumstances attempt to enter the lock until instructed to do so. The lock staff will be working hard to ensure delays are kept to a minimum. if you queue jump the lock will remain inoperative until you remain your vessel.
SAFETYThe safety of barrage users is of primary importance. For your own safety please follow these guide lines:- Listen to, and follow the instructions given to you by barrage staff. Maintain a listening watch on VHF Ch 18 until clear of the barrage. Moor your vessel securely in the lock. Instruct your crew on lock procedure, and ensure lines and fenders are rigged on both sides of your vessel. Keep clear of the sluices at all times.Keep clear of commercial shipping - they have right of way in Cardiff Roads . In the event of an emergency contact "Barrage Control" immediately.The decision to put to sea, the safety of the vessel and its crew is the responsibility of the vessel's skipper.