PART 1GMDSS overview; receiving MSI;
Radio watchkeeping, the Radio Log
and the Voyage Communications PlanTHIS PART OF THE GUIDE INCLUDES AN OVERVIEW of the GMDSS - the
land-based infrastructure, Sea Areas of Operation and equipment - and
briefly explains which tasks can only be carried out using GMDSS
equipment and which may use alternative, non-GMDSS equipment.
Receiving Maritime Safety Information (MSI) for the voyage is covered
(using automatic and manual systems) and Ship Reporting Systems are
explained.
The duties of 'the person designated with responsibility for radio
communications in an emergency' (the designated person) are introduced,
followed by guidance on making a voyage communications plan - to
help the designated person prepare for that role. Examples of voyages
are included, to exercise the use of relevant publications. An introduction
to radio log keeping is included - with examples showing how to record
MSI services being monitored, the radio Distress Watch being maintained
and routine tests and checks.
This part assumes that the radio operator knows how to operate
the various types of communications equipment fitted onboard. For those
who don't - actual equipment operation is included in Part 3. The
assumed (marine radio/satcom) equipment is:
- Marine VHF Radio, with Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
• Marine MF IHF 'SSB' Radio with Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
and Telex Over Radio/Narrow Band Direct Printing (TORlNBDP)- NAVTEX
- Inmarsat-C (including SafetyNET)
- Cospas-Sarsat EPIRB
- Search & Rescue (radar) Transponders (SART)
- Hand-held VHF Radio for Onboard Communications (all channels)
- Hand-held GMDSS-VHF liferaft sets
- Inmarsat-A and/or Inmarsat-B
The vessel is assumed to carry the Admiralty List of Radio Signals
Volumes 1,2,3,5 and 6; ITU List of Ship Stations; ITU List of Callsigns
and Numerical Identities and the International Aeronautical and
Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual Volume 3.
MARINE COMMUNICATIONS 1