SOLAS requirement for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS)
Safety of life at sea is the highest concern in the shipping industry and therefore several norms and regulations have been laid down to meet the minimum level of safe operation and procedures to avoid any mishap. In spite of all the regulations, some accidents are hard to avoid. Thus, SOLAS clearly describes the minimum criteria for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) so during a mishaps or accidents, maximum number of lives can be saved.
All the ship traveling in international seas must comply with the SOLAS chapter IV for a smooth and clear operation of distress system all over the world. Thus, following functional requirements were laid down:
Transmission of distress signal from ship to shore by at least two separate and independent methods
Every ship under GMDSS must have at least two separate communication method for ship to shore distress transmission from the following- EPIRB, Digital Selective Calling (DSC), Inmarsat C.
Receiving of distress alert from shore to ship
Every ship under GMDSS must be capable of receiving shore to ship warnings and distress alerts by either of two means- DSC and NAVTEX.
Transmission and receiving of distress alerts in between ship to ship
Every ship under GMDSS must be capable of transmitting and receiving distress signal between ship to ship by two methods – VHF channel 13 and DSC.
Transmission and receiving of search and rescue coordinating communications
Every ship under GMDSS must be capable of receiving and transmitting search and rescue coordinating communications by any of the following means- NAVTEX, HF/MF/VHF, Inmarsat.
On scene communication transmission and receiving
Every ship under GMDSS must meet the requirements to co-ordinate search and rescue and other distress communication in between vessels at the scene of incident. Normally MF/HF or VHF is used.
Transmitting and receiving signals for locating
Ship under GMDSS must be fitted with proper approved equipment for maritime distress operation and as described in SOLAS chapter V like radar etc.
Transmission and receiving of maritime safety information
Every ship under GMDSS must be capable of receiving maritime safety information through services like navigation warnings, chart correction, weather forecast and warning, distress alerts etc by means of NAVTEX and DSC
General radio communication to be transmitted and received from shore based networks
Ship under GMDSS consist of a general communication system for official, business, personal and private crew communications and can be done by means of DSC and Inmarsat.
Transmission and receiving of communication between bridge to bridge
Ship under GMDSS must have a system to communicate bridge to bridge, which is normally done at port or pilot-age by means of VHF for normal range and MF/HF or Inmarsat for longer range.
You may also like to read-How Nautical Almanac Helps in Marine Navigation?
References:
IMO
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Latest Maritime Law Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
Please be alert that it can be difficult to get hold of GMDSS spares. A good place to look is here:
Has DSC reception via the radar display been added , this would be the nmea DSC position information upon reception by a DSC radio on the bridge and the nmea message sent to the Arpa radar to show direction and position on the radar screen .