Which vessel must have a gong, or other equipment which will make the sound of a gong?

The vessel required to have a gong or equivalent sound-making equipment is any vessel over 100 meters in length. This requirement is stipulated to enhance navigational safety, ensuring that larger vessels can effectively signal their presence, particularly in conditions of low visibility such as fog or heavy rain. The inclusion of sound signaling devices like a gong plays a critical role in maintaining communication on the water, allowing other vessels to be aware of a large vessel's presence to prevent collisions.

While there are sound signaling requirements for smaller vessels, those do not specifically mandate the use of a gong or similar device. This means that vessels under 100 meters may have different requirements, often depending on their class and the waters they navigate. Such regulations are part of a broader framework that aims to safeguard maritime operations, particularly among larger vessels assumed to pose a greater risk due to their size and potential consequences of a collision.