Scope and definitions
The first four articles cover the scope, definitions,
objectives and general principles of the Convention.
A State Party may take measures in accordance
with the Convention to remove a wreck that poses
a hazard to navigation or the marine environment.
A “hazard” is defined as any condition or threat that
“(a) poses a danger or impediment to navigation; or
(b) may reasonably be expected to result in major
harmful consequences to the marine environment,
or damage to the coastline or related interests of one
or more States”.20 Measures taken by the affected
coastal State shall be proportionate to the hazard and
“shall not go beyond what is reasonably necessary to
remove a wreck which poses hazard and shall cease
as soon as the wreck has been removed”.21