Which option correctly names a required lighting setup for a barge being pushed ahead (not part of a composite unit)?

• A. Sidelights And A Special Flashing Light
• B. A Flashing White Beacon
• C. A Stern Light And A Green Sidelight
• D. A Masthead Light And A Stern Light

Answer: (A)

A barge being pushed ahead and not part of a composite unit is treated as a non-self-propelled vessel in a pushing arrangement. It must show its presence and direction with the standard sidelight pair (red on the port side, green on the starboard side) and, in addition, a special white flashing light to indicate that it is being moved by another vessel rather than having its own propulsion. This combination communicates both location and status to other mariners, helping everyone understand that the barge is being pushed rather than steering itself.

The other patterns would misrepresent the situation: a single flashing beacon doesn’t convey that the barge is being pushed, while a masthead or stern light implies self-propelled power, and a stern light with a green sidelight alone doesn’t match the required signaling for a barge that is being pushed ahead.