AUTHOR'S INTRODUCfION
THIS GUIDE HAS REEN WRITIEN PRIMARIlY FOR DECK OFFICERS keeping bridge
watches at sea and other persons who have to manage and use the radio/
satellite communications equipment onboard a modern merchant ship.
There will be one person onboard - usually from the deck
department - who will be 'designated with responsibility for radio
communications during emergencies' To assist that 'radio operator' the
guide explains, with examples, the type of information that should be
recorded in the radio log each day, week and month. The guide is divided
into three parts:
Part 1 provides an overview of the GMDSS; explains how to receive
'Maritime Safety Information' (weather/navigational information,
and shore-to-ship Search & Rescue (SAR) messages) and introduces
the concept of a 'communications plan' for each voyage - for
receiving the required maritime safety information, maintaining
the correct radio watch and using ship reporting systems. Regular
tests and checks that should be recorded in the radio log are covered
in this part.Part 2 covers the operating (alerting/making contact and subsequent
voice/telex) procedures; for all types of communication (Distress,
Urgency, Safety and Routine) - for each type of radio/satcom
equipment - and which publications may be used for each situation.
Part 3 explains how each piece of radio/satellite communications
equipment is physically configured, including ancillary equipment;
how to use the main controls on each piece of equipment and
what regular (operator) maintenance and checks are required to
be carried out on the equipment. Preparing for the periodic 'Ship
Radio Survey' is covered here.
The guide is designed primarily as a day-to-day tool for the
management of radio and satellite communications onboard the modern
merchant ship. It can also be used to prepare for a G MDSS training
course; by training centres as a course manual; or as a 'refresher'
publication when your training course is a distant memory. Parts 1 and
2 include 'question & answer' sections to test your understanding of the
procedures included in those parts.
Ian Waugh
iv THE NAUTICAL INSTITUTE