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