MCGR-WORKBOOK - 02nov2021

MARITIME SIMULATION AND COMMUNICATIONS
CENTRE
GMDSS GENERAL OPERATOR’S CERTIFICATE (GOC)

REVALIDATION COURSE
COURSE CODE: MCGR
Instructions: -
This Course Workbook is designed as a guide for you to progress
through the Computer Based Training (CBT) BOOKS.
Use the respective spaces provided.
MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 1 of 90

Table of contents
01. Modernization of GMDSS
02. Equipment Testing – Daily, Weekly, Monthly
03. Testing of Automatic Identification System Equipment
04. Testing of EPIRB
05. Cospas-Sarsat system update
06. GMDSS Satellite Communication Providers
07. VHF Channels changes
08. Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT)
09. GMDSS Log Book, entries

Table of contents
01. Introduction to GMDSS
02. GMDSS Functional Requirements
03. GMDSS Equipment
04. GMDSS Sea Areas

01. INTRODUCTION TO GMDSS
GLOBAL MARITIME DISTRESS AND SAFETY SYSTEM
Basic Concept of the GMDSS
Notes on Basic Concept of the GMDSS :
The GMDSS emphasizes the ability to alert search and rescue (SAR) authorities ashore as well as
shipping in the vicinity in order to achieve a rapid coordinated response to distress situations.
It is automated, uses ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship alerting by means of terrestrial and satellite radio path
for alerting and subsequent communications.
All passenger ships and all cargo ships over 300 gross tonnage on international voyages have to carry
specified satellite and radiocommunications equipment, for sending and receiving distress alerts and
maritime safety information, and for general communications. The regulations governing the GMDSS
are contained in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 - Chapter IV.
Certifications For GMDSS
Operational Personnel
General Operator’s Certificate (GOC) – World-wide operation, i.e

for Sea Areas A1, A2, A3 & A4.
Restricted Operator’s Certificate (ROC) – For Sea Area A1 only.

02. GMDSS FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The GMDSS is a largely, but not fully, automated system which requires ships to have a range
of equipment capable of performing the nine Radio-communication Functions of the GMDSS,: -
Functions for GMDSS : -
01. Transmit ship-to-shore distress alerts by at least two separate and independent means.
Example: Sea Area A1 ship – Primary means: VHF DSC and secondary means: EPIRB.
02. Transmit and receive ship-to-ship distress alerts.
Transmit and receive using DSC – normally on VHF and MF bands.
03. Receive shore-to-ship distress alerts.
Distress Relay from RCC using DSC or satellite call to all ships (EGC broadcast)
04. Transmit and receive Search and Rescue coordinating communications.
Communicating with RCC and SAR units by using terrestrial or satellite communications.
05. Transmit and receive on-scene communications.
On-scene communications are short to medium range communications carried out during the course
of SAR operation. Ships must be able to communicate with aircraft, other ships and RCC, using the
dedicated GMDSS frequencies for voice and NBDP distress communications:- CH16, CH6 (Intership
and ship-aircraft), 121..5 & 123.1 Mhz (ship-aircraft – compulsory for passenger vessels), 2182 Khz, ,
4125 Khz ( ship-to-shore), 3023 Khz and 5680 Khz (ship-aircraft).
06. Transmit and receive signals for locating.
SART/AIS-SART and EPIRB - for transmitting locating signals and the 3cm Radar and AIS
equipment is for receiving or detecting locating signals.
07. Transmit and receive bridge-to-bridge communications.
VHF Channel 13 – the frequency reserved for intership communications relating to the Safety of
Navigation.
08. Transmit and receive Maritime Safety Information.
1. Navtex - for coastal warning (Sea areas A1 and A2)

2. EGC Safetynet – for Sea areas not cover by Navtex (except Sea area A4)
3. HF radio-telex broadcast for Sea area A4.
09. Transmit and receive General Radio-communications.
All types of commercial and personal communications ( including communication with port
authorities).

03. INTRODUCTION TO GMDSS EQUIPMENT
3.1. VHF Transceiver : -
It is use for short range voice (R/T) communications, with mandatory channels of Ch 16, Ch 6 and Ch
13. It must be able to transmit DSC signals on Channel 70.
Watch keeping on channel 16 for Distress, Urgency and Safety communications by radiotelephony to be
continued till further notification from IMO.-Required by MSC.131(75) – amended by COMSAR 8th
session- Feb 2004).
This is to enable non-GMDSS vessels to obtain help by using channel 16 when they are in distress,
urgency and safety situations.
3.2. VHF DSC Encoder/Decoder & Channel 70 Watch Keeping Receiver :-

VHF Digital Selective Calling- it is a short range automated call and reply system used as the initial
means of contact with other stations.
It is optimized for use in DISTRESS and allows for the following to be transmitted :
1. ID of the vessel in distress,
2. The nature of the distress and
3. The last recorded position and time.
The subsequent communication is done by radiotelephony on channel 16.
Dedicated DSC CH 70 watch keeping receiver is use to maintain continuous watch for distress alert calls.
3.3. MF/HF Transceiver : -
MF/HF transceiver is use for medium range and long range voice (radiotelephony) and NBDP (Narrow
Band Direct Printing – MF/HF telex) communications. It must be able to be connected to the MF/HF
DSC encoder/decoder for the transmission of DSC calls.
2182 kHz is the designated R/T distress, urgency and safety frequency for MF band.
Designated R/T and NBDP frequencies for distress, urgency and safety are allocated for all the HF bands
of 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16 MHz.
3.4. MF/HF DSC Encoder/Decoder and Watch Keeping Receiver : -

MF/HF Digital Selective Calling- it is for medium range and long range automated call and reply system
used as the initial means of contact with other stations.
The subsequent communication is done by radiotelephony or NBDP (telex) on the appropriate distress,
urgency and safety frequencies.
Dedicated DSC watch keeping receiver is use to maintain continuous watch for distress alert calls on
2187.5 kHz, 8414.5 kHz and one of the HF DSC distress frequencies appropriate and relative to the
nearest DSC coast station.

3.5. Radiotelex (NBDP) : - *note will be obsolete with modernization of GMDSS
NBDP – Narrow Band Direct Printing (MF/HF telex) is an alternative to radio telephony (R/T)
for distress and general communications in GMDSS.
For Receiving MSI transmitted on HF frequencies.
3.6. INMARSAT Satellite : -
 Initially 4 satellites in Geostationary orbit, located about 35,600 km for the earth Equator
 AOR-West, AOR-East, POR and IOR satellites, each have their own footprint (coverage
areas). (I-4 and I-5 satellites are launched)
 Global coverage, except for the polar areas ( within latitudes70N and 70S)
 Distress and safety calls get through, regardless of weather conditions.
3.7. INMARSAT-FLEET BROADBAND (FB500) & GLOBAL EXPRESS : -
 It uses digital technology.

 Directional antenna with mechanism to Auto-track the satellites.
 Services provided by this SES terminal are ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship :
o Telephone calls
o TEXT
o Fax calls
o Data (emails, computer networking and etc.)
o Video

3.8. INMARSAT-C : -
 Store and forward messaging system
 Push the distress button to transmit a distress alert, the ship’s identity, position and time
 Receive MSI
Notes:
 If the Inmarsat-C terminal interfaced with a GPS, the ship’s position is automatically
updated.
 Otherwise the ship’s position must be updated manually every 4 hours.
3.9. NAVTEX : -
One of the systems used for transmission and reception of MSI in GMDSS. This system only
covers coastal warning areas up to a maximum of 400 nautical miles from the transmitting
station.
It uses the terrestrial telex FEC collective transmission mode to broadcast MSI to ships at sea,
i.e. Sea area A1 and Sea area A2.
 Transmitting stations and message categories are identified by a single letter i.e. A to Z.
 Messages begin with a header code e.g. consists of ZCZC B1B2B3B4.
 Navtex receivers are used to receive and print out the messages automatically.
3.10. INMARSAT Safety-Net or HF MSI : -
 SAFETY-NET is one of the services provided by the Enhance Group Call (EGC) system
to broadcast information to ships at sea.
 MSI for areas beyond navtex coverage are broadcast using SAFETY-NET
 EGC receivers are used to receive MSI via SAFETY-NET.
 EGC receiver is normally built-in an Inmarsat-C SES terminals.
 Transmission of MSI for Sea Area A4 uses HF frequencies.

3.11. EPIRB ( COSPAS SARSAT) : -
 It indicates the position of distress and provides a secondary means of sending distress
alerting.
 Transmissions are detected via satellites – COSPAS SARSAT SYSTEM
 EPIRB frequencies are 406.025 MHz and 121.5 MHz (Aeronautical distress frequency
and it is used for Homing purposes).
 The position of EPIRB is determined by using the “Doppler shift effect” with the
LEOSAR/MEOSAR COSPAS-SARSAT satellites.
 Annual testing by Radio Surveyor – Annual test report from Surveyor.
 Shore-Base-Maintenance – every 5 years – by shore workshop together with battery
change – request for SBM certificate to be kept on board.
 Check the expiry date of battery ( usually 5 years) and HRU (usually 2 years)
3.12. RADAR SART/AIS-SART : -
 It is used to locate the position of distress and survival craft during SAR operations.
 It responds automatically to 3cm (9 GHz or X band radars) and AIS equipment
 It shows 12 blips on the radar screen (PPI). The first blip nearest to your ship indicates
the position of SART. – the blips change to arcs when the distance between the SART
and your ship is one nautical mile or less – the arcs change to circles when the SART is
on or at your ship. AIS-SART is identified by a symbol when detected.
 The battery needs to be change every five years – refer to the battery’s expiry date
printed on the body of the SART.
 The capacity of RADAR SART battery :
o 96 hours on standby conditions followed by
o At least 8 hours transmission.
 Requirement:
o At least one unit for cargo ships of 300 to 500 GRT,
o At least two units on cargo ships of greater than 500 GRT and all passenger
ships, engaging in international voyages.

3.13. Portable VHF : -
 For on-scene communications between survival crafts/life rafts and ships

 Watertight
 Batteries intended for use in distress situations may not be used for on-board
communication.
 Requirement:
o At least two units for cargo ships of 300 to 500 GRT, at least three units for cargo
ships of above 500 GRT and all passenger ships irrespective of size, which
engage in international voyages.
o Sealed spare battery – one for each unit – check expiry date
o Test at least once a week.

3.14. GMDSS Mandatory Publications : -
01. Safety of Life At Sea ( SOLAS ) (IMO): -

 The international convention SOLAS defines the GMDSS functions, carriage
requirements, watches, maintenance etc. – Chapter IV
02. Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary - (Standard Marine Communication

Phrases [SMCP]) : -
 Standardized phrases used in communications for navigations at sea, in port
approaches, in waterways and harbours.
03. List of Coast Stations and Special Service Stations List IV ( By ITU ) : -
Reference for the following particulars of Radio Stations:
 Correspondence services
 Charges
 Maritime mobile-satellite systems information
 GMDSS coast stations
 Information about stations transmitting meteorological bulletins, navigational
warnings, time signals etc
04. List of Ship Stations and Maritime Mobile Service Identity Assignments List V (By
ITU ) : -
 List the radio equipment that individual ship carry
 Call signs and numerical identities of specific ships
05. International Telecommunications Union’s Manual : -

 Regulations about frequencies
 Procedures for distress and safety communications etc.
06. GMDSS Master Plan : -

 Information on shore-base facilities for satellite and terrestrial communications for
the GMDSS
 VHF, MF and HF coast stations
 INMARSAT Coast Earth Stations
 MSI services and Rescue Coordination Centers etc.
07. IAMSAR Manual : -

 International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual, a guide for
conducting search and rescue operations.
08. MANUAL FOR USE BY THE MARITIME MOBILE AND MARITIME MOBILE-
SATELLITE SERVICES

04. GMDSS – SEA AREAS
The GMDSS is based on the concept of using four sea areas to determine the operational,
maintenance and personnel requirements for maritime radiocommunications, i.e : -
1. Sea Area A1 : -
 An area within the coverage of at least one VHF coast station in which continuous
DSC alerting is available. Such an area could extend typically 30 to 50 nautical miles
from the coast station.
2. Sea Area A2 : -
 An area, excluding sea area A1, within the coverage of at least one MF coast station
in which continuous DSC alerting is available. This area typically extends up to 150
nautical miles from the Coast Station. Satisfactory coverage may often be achieved
up to around 400 nautical miles from the coast station.
3. Sea Area A3 : -
 An area, excluding sea areas A1 and A2, within the coverage of a satellite in which
continuous alerting is available. For Inmarsat system, this area lies between about
latitudes 70 degrees north and south. Iridium system provide global coverage.
4. Sea Area A4 : -
 An area outside sea areas A1, A2 and A3. This is essentially the Polar Regions, north
and south of about 70 degrees of latitudes outside the coverage of Inmarsat system.
GMDSS Equipment Requirements : - GMDSS equipment required for all the Sea Areas
indicated below:
Sea Area Sea Area Sea Area Sea Area
Equipment
A1 A2 A3 A4
VHF with DSC & Watch Keeping RX YES YES YES YES
SART (1 or 2) YES YES YES YES
NAVTEX A A A A
EGC Receiver B B B B
EPIRB YES YES YES C
VHF Portable ( 2 or 3 ) YES YES YES YES
MF R/T + DSC & Watch Keeping RX YES YES YES
PLUS
INMARSAT-FB or –C YES or
IRIDIUM YES or YES or
HF RT WITH DSC & Watch keeping
YES YES
RX & TELEX
Notes: A - Require only in those areas where the NAVTEX service is available
B - Required only in those areas where the NAVTEX service is NOT available; also,
the EGC receiving facility included in the standard Inmarsat-C terminal.
C – 406 MHz COSPAS-SARSAT EPIRB

Table of contents
01. Basic Technology – Radio Frequencies and Frequency Spectrum
02. Radio Wave Propagation
03. GMDSS Equipment Technology

01. Basic Technology – Radio Frequencies and Frequency Spectrum
Introduction to communications using Radio Frequencies : -
Communications of various ranges are obtained by radio frequency waves traveling from the
transmitting to the receiving antenna.
Radio Cycle and Radio Frequencies : -

 The unit of measurement for frequency is Hertz (Hz) i.e one complete cycle in one
second.
o 1 Kilohertz – 1000 Hz.
o 1 Megahertz – 1000 kHz
o 1 Gigahertz – 1000 MHz.
Frequency Spectrum : -
Maritime Services only use parts of the frequency spectrums as below.
Medium Frequency (MF) & communication range : -
 Frequency range from 300 kHz to 3000 kHz (3 MHz)

 It is use for medium range communications.
High Frequency (HF) & communication range : -
 Frequency range from 3 MHz to 30 MHz

 It is use for long range communications.
 The higher the frequency the longer the range of communications.
Very High Frequency (VHF) & communication range : -
 Frequency range from 30 MHz to 300 MHz

 It is use for short range communications.-
o Reason - it propagates using the direct wave which is not able to follow the
curvature of the earth.

Classes of Emission : -
F1B : - Frequency Shift Keying Telegraphy
Emission class for radiotelex, NAVTEX and DSC
J3E : - AM Single Sideband Suppressed Carrier
Emission class for MF and HF telephony.
H3E : - AM Single Sideband Full Carrier
This emission class is used for distress on telephony 2182 KHz
F3E : - FM telephony
Emission class for VHF telephony
Notes: J3E on 2182 kHz will be the only emission class after February 1999
02. Radio Wave Propagation

Reflected waves : -
Radio waves are transmitted from one point to another by ground wave, sky waves, direct
waves and reflected waves. HF radio waves are radiated from the antenna and reflected from
the ionosphere back to the earth surface.
Direct and reflected radio waves are typical examples of VHF radio waves.
Atmospheric (Ionosphere) Layers : -
These layers are very important for the propagation of radio waves.
During daylight : -
D-layer - at about 75,000 meter from the earth surface.

E-layer - at about 100,000 meter.
F1-layer - at about 225,000 meter.
F2-layer - at about 320,000 meter.
At night:-
D-layer - disappears.
E-layer - at about 100,000 meter.
F1 & F2 layers are combined into one and are at about 250,000 meter from the earth surface.

Propagation of VHF frequency : -
VHF radio waves are propagated by direct waves – it is for short range radio communication
(up to a normal range of about 30 to 50 NM – depending on the height of the transmitting and
receiving antenna). It is used for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications.
Same channel to be used for daytime and night time.
Propagation of MF frequency : -
MF radio waves are propagated by ground waves – it is for medium range radio
communication (up to a normal range of about 150 to 250 NM – maximum 400 NM –
depending on the transmitter power).
During night time the range increases due to propagation by sky waves.
Propagation of HF frequency : -
HF radio waves are propagated by sky waves – it is for long range radio communication. The
communication ranges increase with the increase of frequency.
4 MHz band - normally not use during day light. Use at night time.
6 MHz band - normally not use during day light. Use at night time.
8 MHz band - optimum frequency for estimated range of 1,000 nm or less, daylight or
nighttime.
12 MHz band - use for estimated range of more than 1,000 nm or more.
16 MHz band - change to this band if not able to contact using the 12MHz band.
22 MHz band - do not use this frequency band during night time.
During night time - select a lower frequency bands, as the ionosphere is thinner and not able to
reflect higher frequency.

03. GMDSS Equipment Technology
VHF Transceiver : -
It is use for short range voice (R/T) communications, with mandatory channels of Ch 16, Ch 6 and Ch
13. It must be able to transmit DSC signals on Channel 70.
Watch keeping on channel 16 for Distress, Urgency and Safety communications by radiotelephony to be
continued till further notification from IMO.-Required by MSC.131(75) – amended by COMSAR 8th
session- Feb 2004).
VHF DSC & channel 70 watch keeping receiver : -
VHF Digital Selective Calling- it is a short range automated call and reply system used as the initial
means of contact with other stations.
The subsequent communication is done by radiotelephony on channel 16.
Dedicated DSC CH 70 watch keeping receiver is use to maintain continuous watch for distress alert calls
MF/HF Transceiver : -
MF/HF transceiver is use for medium range and long range voice (radiotelephony) and NBDP (Narrow
Band Direct Printing – MF/HF telex) communications. It must be able to be connected to the MF/HF
DSC encoder/decoder for the transmission of DSC calls.
2182 Khz is the designated R/T distress, urgency and safety frequency for MF band.
MF/HF DSC & watch keeping receiver : -
MF/HF Digital Selective Calling- it is for medium range and long range automated call and reply system
used as the initial means of contact with other stations.
Dedicated DSC watch keeping receiver is use to maintain continuous watch for distress alert calls on
2187.5 Khz, 8414.5 Khz and one of the HF DSC distress frequencies appropriate and relative to the
nearest DSC coast station
Inmarsat-FB500/Global Express : -
 It uses digital technology.

 Directional antenna with mechanism to Auto-track the satellites.
 Services provided by this SES terminal are ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship :
o Telephone calls, Telex calls, Fax calls, Data (emails, computer networking and
etc.) and Video.
o High speed data
Inmarsat-C : -
 Store and forward messaging system

 Push the distress buttons to transmit a distress alert, the ship’s identity, position and time
 For reception of MSI

EPIRB ( COSPAS SARSAT) : -
 The EPIRB should automatically “float free” on reaching a maximum depth of 4 meters.
It should then be automatically activated.
 It can be manually activated and deactivated as well. The battery should keep the EPIRB
activated for at least 48 hours.
SART : - Radar Search And Rescue Transponder/ AIS-SART
 The detection range of the SART depends on height mounted on a survival craft and also
the height of the transmitting radar antenna on the rescue the ship.
 When mounted 1 meter above the sea level, the range will be 5 nautical miles.
 AIS-SART will be detected using an AIS equipment.
Navtex :-
 Use to receive MSI as navigational and metrological warnings.

 Coast stations transmits on MF frequency 518 kHz on a time sharing basis in English.
 The frequency 490 kHz may be used to transmit in national languages, 4209.5 kHz will
also be used for Navtex transmissions.
Emergency and Reserved Power Sources: -
 If the main source of electrical power suddenly fails, the accumulator will provide
electricity for at least 1 hour to your radio system and the emergency generator will take
over when it is ready. All these should be done automatically.
 The emergency generator shall be able to supply for at least 18 hours.
 The following requirements apply to the supply capacity of the reserve source of energy
(GMDSS battery):
- on ships with an emergency energy source : 1 hour
- on ships without an emergency energy source : 6 hours
-
 The charging system must be capable of fully recharging the batteries within 10 hours.

Table of contents
01. VHF Transceiver
02. VHF DSC
03. MF/HF Transceiver
04. MF/HF DSC
05. MF/HF Radio Telex (NDBP) (Obsolete)
06. INMARSAT-FB500/ Fleet One
07. INMARSAT-C
08. EPIRB, SART and Portable VHF Radiotelephony Transceiver
09. NAVTEX Receiver

01. VHF Transceiver
1.1. VHF Transceiver - Controls
CH16 – International Distress, SQ: Adjust Squelch level to reduce or

Urgency and Safety channel for Radio eliminate background noise of the
Telephony communication. It may receiver. But should not be too high, as
also be used for call and reply only, if this will reduce the sensitivity and affect
it is not used for DUS the reception of weak signal.
communications.
Push to Talk-Button: (PTT) On-Off switch: - Power On and Power

Push this button for talking and off the VHF transceiver and adjust
release it for reception volume level of the receiver.
1.2. VHF Transceiver – Distress Message Transmission

Transmitting on channel: 16
Mayday.
This is
Alam Satu 9MST
My position Lat 10 degrees 23 minutes North
Long 105 degrees 30 minutes East at time 1305
Ship sinking
Require immediate assistance
Crew onboard 24 persons
Sea conditions very rough
Over

02. VHF DSC
2.1. VHF DSC - Controls
Distress Menu:- Opens the Distress Lift lid and press for at least 5 secs to
Alert screen display from any menu or send Distress Alert. From 0-5 sec the
program. button will flash and there will be
warning signal. When the light stops
flashing, (after 5 secs) Distress
Alerted acitivated !!…..
(DISTRESSALERT
Enter button:- Press this button to Send button:- Press this button to start to
confirm your selections or entries transmit DSC calls other than distress
shown on the display screen. alerts.

2.2. VHF DSC – Transmission of Distress Alert
The appropriate number on the buttons of the diagram below indicate the correct sequence of
how to activate a “Designated Distress Alert” : -
2 3 1 4
Notes on Transmission of Distress Alert by VHF DSC :
A DSC distress alert consists of: The ship’s identity (MMSI), nature of distress, the ship’s last
known position, the time the position was valid, type of subsequent communication.
When the DSC equipment is connected to a GPS, the ship’s position is automatically updated.
Otherwise the ship’s position must be updated manually every 4 hours.
Since 2003, it is mandatory that all DSC equipment to be connected to GPS or positioning
device if it is installed onboard.
Undesignated Distress Alert – A distress alert can be transmitted at any time by lifting the lid
and pressing the distress button for 5 seconds. The nature of distress will be undesignated.
Designated Distress Alert: - If time permits, a distress alert containing more detailed
information can be composed by selecting “Distress Menu”.
Repetition of Distress Alert Calls:-

The Distress Alert call is automatically repeated after a random delay of between 3.5 minutes
and 4.5 minutes. Repetition will automatically be terminated on reception of Distress
Acknowledgement by DSC.
The DSC Distress Alert is sent on Channel 70

2.3. VHF DSC – Urgency and Safety calls
The appropriate number on the buttons of the diagram below indicate the correct sequence of
how to activate “Urgency and Safety calls” :
3 1
2 4
Notes on Transmission of Urgency and Safety Calls by VHF DSC :
Urgency:-
01. Urgency call by DSC will not require any acknowledgement by DSC, as it is only an
announcement before the transmission of urgency message.
02. Urgency messages should be transmitted using Radiotelephony on channel 16.
03. Urgency traffic to be preceded by the urgency signal “PAN PAN”.
Safety:-
01. Safety call by DSC will not require any acknowledgement by DSC, as it is an
announcement of transmission of safety message.
02. Safety messages should be transmitted using radiotelephony:-
a. Short safety messages may be transmitted using channel 16.
b. Long and repeated messages should be transmitted using working channel e.g.
channel 13 etc.
03. Safety traffic to be preceded by the Safety signal “Securite” – pronounce as “Se-Cure-E-
Tay”.

03. MF/HF Transceiver
3.1. MF/HF Transceiver - Controls
RX – Changing receiver RCL – Recalling stored

frequency. receiver/transmitter frequencies
by entering channel number
(ITU channels)
TX – Changing transmitter
frequency.
Press to Talk Button –

2182 kHz – Fast setup for
Press and hold this button to 2182kHz. Pressing this key will
transmit your message. instantly change receiver and
transmitter frequency to 2182 kHz
and select SSB/J3E mode.
3.2. MF/HF Transceiver – Transmission of Distress Message
Transmitting on MF R/T Distress frequency: 2182 kHz.

Mayday This is Alam Satu 9MST
My position Lat 10 degrees 23 minutes North Long 105 degrees 30 minutes East at time 1305
Ship sinking
Require immediate assistance
Crew onboard 24 persons
Sea conditions very rough
Over

04. MF/HF DSC
4.1. MF/HF DSC - Controls
Volume control and on/off switch. Lift the lid and press for at least 5
While at sea, the equipment shall seconds. From 0-5 sec the button will
be switched on for watch-keeping. flash and when the flashing stops it
indicates 5 secs is up and can release
the button. Distress Alert is sent!!
Pressing these buttons to enter

digits 0 to 9. Opens the Distress Alert menu from
any menu or program
Moves the selection on the display

in the direction indicated.

4.2. MF/HF DSC – Transmission of Distress Alert
01. The appropriate number on the button of the diagram below indicate the correct
sequence of how to activate “Undesignated Distress Alert”:
1. Lift the lid and press for at least 5 seconds.

Undesignated Distress Alert transmitted on 2187.5 KHz.
2. The appropriate number on the buttons of the diagram below indicate the correct sequence of
how to activate “Designated Distress Alert”
2 3 1 4
3. The Distress Alert frequency for MF DSC is : 2187.5 KHz

4.3. MF/HF DSC – Urgency and Safety calls
1. The appropriate numbers on the buttons of the diagram below indicate the correct sequence of
how to activate “Urgency Call”:
2 3 1 4
2. The Urgency Message by radiotelephony must be sent on which MF frequency?
Answer : 2182.0 KHz.
3. How do you conduct an “External Test” on your MF/HF DSC equipment?
DSC Test Call CRS
DSC Ack
a. Refer to ALRS volume 1 or ALRS volume 5 for Radio Coast Stations which maintain
DSC watches. Find the MMSI number of the station that you want to make “Test Call”.
b. Make “TEST CALL” to the Coast Radio Station using the MMSI number and the
appropriate frequency depending on the range of your ship and the coast radio station.
c. Wait for acknowledgement from the coast radio station by DSC. If no acknowledgement,
repeat “Test Call” with higher frequency.
d. Record the test result into the GMDSS radio log book and print out the result if printer is
attached to your DSC equipment.
e. No further communication by Radiotelephony is required.
f. External Test Call – weekly.

05. Radiotelex (Obsolete)
5.1. ARQ method
1. ARQ stands for : Automatic Retransmissions Request or Automatic Repetition Request
2. Briefly describe how messages are transmitted in ARQ method : -
a. Message is transmitted in groups of three characters.

b. The receiving station prints and acknowledges each group of characters which is
received correctly.
c. If an error is received, the receiving station will request the transmitting station
for retransmission of the same group. (maximum of 32 repetitions)
3. What type of communication use ARQ method?
It is to be used for communication between two radio stations only. Example, sending telex
messages to shore subscriber via coast radio station.

5.2. FEC method
1. FEC stands for : Forward Error Correction
2. Briefly describe how messages are transmitted in FEC method : -
a. Each character of the message is transmitted twice.

b. The receiving stations print the character if any of the two transmissions is received
correctly.
c. If there are errors for both transmissions, then the receivers will leave a space (or print
an asterisk (*) for NAVTEX transmission).
d. No request or repetition from the receiving and transmitting stations.
3. What type of communications use FEC method?
a. Distress communications.
b. Broadcasting of urgency and safety messages to all stations
c. NAVTEX transmissions.

5.3. ARQ Operation
Notes on Radiotelex ARQ operation : -
 The File menu is used for creating new files or for loading and saving files on the
computer hard disk.
 The Scan menu is used to change the receiver scanning channels.
 The Call menu is used when you want an ARQ contact with a coast station that is
transmitting a channel-free signal.
Notes: Characteristics of ARQ mode:-
a. This mode of transmission guarantees error-free data.

b. Automatic exchange of identities guarantees connection with the requested station.
c. Communication is possible only between two stations.

5.4. FEC Operation
Notes on Radiotelex FEC operation : -
Characteristics of FEC mode:-
a. A message may be transmitted to several stations simultaneously.

b. Does not require transmitters at the receiving stations.
c. No need to know the identity of the receiving stations.

06. INMARSAT-FB500 & Fleet One (GMDSS approved 5/2018)
6.1. INMARSAT-FB500 - Features

Extract from Inmarsat website
Standard IP Data - Always-on data service for applications such as

email and internet access, real-time electronic charts and weather
reporting.
Streaming IP – Guaranteed rates for live applications like video
conferencing and database synchronization .
Satellite voice – Access up to nine telephone lines from a single

terminal with FleetBroadband Multi-voice.
Enhanced voice services – Voicemail and other enhanced call

management options are available, including caller identification,
caller barring and call forwarding.
Crew calling – prepay and post-paid options available.
GSM calls – GSM over FB500 enables users to make and receive
calls and send and receive SMS texts using the pre-paid SIM in their
own mobile phone.
SMS – Send and receive SMS text messages to and from other
FleetBroadband terminals and land-based cellular networks through
your PC or smart device.
Safety – 505 Emergency Calling puts vessels directly in contact with

a Maritime Rescue Co-ordination centre (MRCC) free of charge for
distress calls.

6.2. INMARSAT- Fleet One Global Coverage
Fleet One Global - Instantly access emails, electronic charts, and weather reports,
transmit regulatory declarations, or call family and friends from anywhere in the world.
Access to free 505 emergency call system. Connecting free of charge directly to the
Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre instantly.
Fleet Safety is a maritime data service, approved by the IMO, that supports GMDSS
compliance for voice and data distress, and urgency and safety communications.
Combining a Maritime Safety Terminal (MST) with existing FleetBroadband or Fleet One
data services, Fleet Safety is the most significant advance in maritime safety for a
generation.
Instant priority distress alerting and chat capability.
Dynamic message routing will send your alert to the nearest MRCC or assisting vessels
Fleet Safety allows you to download MSI Pull broadcasts so you have the most up-to-
date information to safely plan your voyage.
With the average response time at four minutes, be safe in the knowledge your safety
distress alert and vessel location has been sent, delivered and read, giving you extra
reassurance that rescue teams know exactly where you are and help is on its way.

07. INMARSAT-C
7.1. INMARSAT-C - Controls
Transmit menu is used for controlling

how a message should be sent.
The Distress menu allows you to

File menu is used for select CES, Ship’s position and nature
creating new files, of distress before activating it.
loading, printing and
saving files.
If you just press this distress button, you will

send an undesignated distress alert with pre-
programmed information, according to details
when it was previously last updated.

7.2. INMARSAT-C - Transmission of Distress Alert
1. Steps for Sending a “Distress Alert” using the INMARSAT-C : -
a. Select the Distress menu on the terminal.

b. Select a Land Earth Station and confirm it by selecting “Yes”.
c. Confirm the position information is correct by selecting “Yes”.
d. Select Distress type and confirm it by “Yes”.
e. Lift lid and press for 5 seconds. – When the lamp stop flashing, 5 seconds is up.
f. The DISTRESS ALERT is transmitted.
g. Wait for acknowledgement from the Land Earth Station.
h. If acknowledgement is not received within 5 minutes, repeat the above procedure or try
to use other equipment to send distress alert.
2. Steps for the follow-up “Distress communications” : -
a. Type your Distress message with text editor.

b. Use Transmit menu to send the Distress message to the Land Earth Station which has
acknowledged your Distress Alert.
c. Select “SOS” priority to send your distress message to the associated RCC of the Land
Earth Station.
d. Exchange distress traffic with the RCC and follow the instructions given by the RCC.
3. What “External Test” is needed to be performed on your INMARSAT-C terminal?
a. External Test – some manufacturers called it as “Performance Verification Test” (PV test),
some named it as “Link Test”.
b. It should be performed at least once a month or as indicated by your Ship Management
System.
c. Record result of the TEST in GMDSS radio log book and attached print out if available.

08. EPIRB, SART AND PORTABLE VHF
8.1a. EPIRB - Controls
The transmitter sends the identity of the ship,

i.e. MMSI for GMDSS vessels, or call sign or
serial number of the EPIRB for non GMDSS
vessels.
1. The TEST button

should be activated to
test the functionality of
the EPIRB.
2. The EPIRB is to be
tested at least once a
month.
3. Annual testing and
checks to be done by
Radio Surveyor and
who will provide the
Annual test report and
Certificate.
The battery should be capable to

supply power for at least 48 hours. Switch for resetting to automatic stand-
The battery normally lasts for 4 or by mode
5 years and it shall be marked with
an expiry date.

8.1b. EPIRB - Operation
1. Indicate how to activate the EPIRB manually : -
Push this switch to

the “ON” position
and place the EPIRB
outside the bridge.
2. Describe how the EPIRB will be activated automatically?
a. When the ship sinks, the EPIRB will float free by the action of Hydrostatics Release
Unit –HRU- (Depth of 1.5 meters to 4.0 meters in the water).
b. It is activated automatically when exposed to water (By water contact switch).
c. The EPIRB should, when possible, be attached to the life raft with the lanyard provided.
Notes:
a. The HRU needs to be replaced every two years, refer to the expiry date printed on the
body of the HRU.
b. When storing EPIRB, ensure that the EPIRB is able to be float free.

8.2a. SART - Controls
The transponder is activated by signal from a

3 cm radar and sends out reply pulses.
The battery should be capable to The SART shall be tested at least once a
supply power for at least 96 hours on month or as required by Ship
standby and 8 hours of transmission. Management System.
The battery normally lasts for 4 or 5 The result of the test shall be recorded
years and it shall be marked with an into GMDSS radio log book.
expiry date.

8.2b. SART - Operation
Notes on Operation of SART: -
a. Remember to bring the SART with you into the survival craft when abandoning.
b. Mount the SART at least 1 meters above sea level (Vertically)
c. The range is at least 5 nautical miles, if the SART is interrogated by radar with an
antenna height of 15 meters.

8.3a. PORTABLE VHF TRANSCEIVER (WALKIE TALKIE) - Controls
On/Off and Volume control. Channel selection. Channel 16, 13

and 06 are mandatory channels.
The battery shall have sufficient capacity to ensure 8

hours of operation. Transmit Button.
This equipment is often supplied with two batteries: a
primary and a secondary battery.
The primary battery is use in distress, is sealed non-
chargeable and with a label indicating the expiry date.
The secondary battery is a rechargeable battery for
every-day use.

8.3b. PORTABLE VHF TRANSCEIVER (WALKIE TALKIE) - Operation
Select channel 16.

Press the transmit
button and send your
message.
Notes on operation of SART : -
a. Walkie-talkies shall be tested at least once every week.

b. Ensure that the spare batteries are not expired.

09. Navtex
9.1. Navtex - Controls
Each message begins with ZCZC.

In this example JB38 indicates that it is a
meteorological message from Stockholm Radio.
J - indicates Stockholm Radio in Navarea 1.
B - means meteorological message, and
38 - the serial number of message.
Indicates selected areas.

09. Navtex
9.2. Navtex - Operation
Notes on operation of Navtex Receiver : -
a. Refer to ALRS volume 3 or ALRS volume 5 for Navtex transmitting stations required
for your ship’s route.
b. Select the transmitter for the sea area that your ship sails.
c. Select the message types required.
*When Navtex messages are received, the receiver will store/print the messages.

Table of contents
01. IMO GMDSS Operating Guidance for Master of Ship in Distress Situations.
02. Distress, Urgency and Safety Traffic.
03. Distress Alert Procedures and Distress Alert – VHF DSC
04. Distress Alert – MF DSC
05. Distress Alert – HF DSC
06. Distress Alert – INMARSAT
07. Distress Alert – INMARSAT-C
08. EPIRB and SART
09. Search and Rescue
10. False Distress

1. GMDSS OPERATING GUIDANCE FOR MASTERS OF SHIPS IN DISTRESS SITUATIONS
Transmit, if time Embark in survival Switch on EPIRB and
Is vessel allows, distress call by craft with VHF, SART SART immediately
sinking or to be YES MF/HF DSC, VHF and if possible EPIRB and leave on.
abandoned? DSC or Inmarsat.
NO NO
Transmit distress call Communicate on Switch on EPIRB

Is immediate by MF/HF DSC, VHF Response MF/HF, VHF or and SART
help needed? DSC or Inmarsat. received? YES Inmarsat to RCC manually on board.
YES
and ships.
NO NO
Notify RCC by Communicate on

A potential problem MF/HF DSC, VHF Response MF/HF, VHF or
exists. YES DSC or Inmarsat. received? YES Inmarsat to RCC and
ships
RADIO DISTRESS FREQUENCIES

DSC Radiotelephone NBDP
VHF Channel 70 Channel 16
1. EPIRB should float-free and activate automatically if it cannot be taken into survival craft. MF 2187.5 Khz 2182 Khz 2174.5 Khz
2. Where necessary, ships should use any appropriate means to alert other ships. HF4 4207.5 Khz 4125 Khz 4177.5 Khz
3. Nothing above is intended to preclude the use of any or all available means of distress HF6 6312 Khz 6215 Khz 6268 Khz
alerting. HF8 8414.5 Khz 8291 Khz 8376.5 Khz
HF12 12577 Khz 12290 Khz 12520 Khz
HF16 16804.5 Khz 16420 Khz 16695 Khz

ACTIONS BY SHIPS UPON RECEPTION OF VHF DSC DISTRESS ALERT COMSAR/Circ.21 ANNEX 1
IS THE NO
DSC LISTEN ON VHF NO IS DISTRESS
ALERT IS THE DSC NO
DISTRESS CHANNEL 16 ACKNOWLEDED TRAFFIC IN DISTRESS CALL
ALERT IS FOR 5 MINS BY CS AND OR PROGRESS? CONTINUING?
RECEIVED RCC?
YES
YES YES
ACKNOWLEDGE THE
ALERT BY
RADIOTELEPHONY
IS OWN TO THE SHIP IN
RESET VESSEL DISTRESS ON VHF
SYSTEM. YES CH 16
ABLE TO
ASSIST?
Note 1
INFORM
CS AND
NO OR RCC
ENTER
DETAILS
IN LOG
Note 1:Appropriate or relevant RCC and/or Coast Station shall be informed accordingly. If further DSC alerts are received from the same source and the ship in distress is
beyond doubt in the vicinity, a DSC acknowledgement may, after consultation with an RCC or Coast Station, be sent to terminate the call.
Note 2: In no case is a ship permitted to transmit a DSC distress relay call on receipt of a DSC distress alert on VHF channel 70.
CS = Coast Station RCC = Rescue Co-ordination Center

ACTIONS BY SHIPS UPON RECEPTION OF VHF/MF DSC DISTRESS ALERT COMSAR/Circ.21 ANNEX 2
IS THE NO
DSC LISTEN ON VHF NO
ALERT IS DISTRESS IS THE DSC NO
DISTRESS CHANNEL 16 ACKNOWLEDED DISTRESS CALL
TRAFFIC IN
ALERT IS /2182 kHz FOR 5 BY CS AND OR CONTINUING?
PROGRESS?
RECEIVED MINS RCC?
YES
YES YES
ACKNOWLEDGE THE
ALERT BY
RADIOTELEPHONY
IS OWN TO THE SHIP IN
RESET VESSEL DISTRESS ON VHF
SYSTEM. YES CH 16/2182 Khz
ABLE TO
ASSIST?
Note 1
INFORM
CS AND
NO OR RCC
ENTER
DETAILS
IN LOG
Note 1:Appropriate or relevant RCC and/or Coast Station shall be informed accordingly. If further DSC alerts are received from the same source and the ship in distress is
beyond doubt in the vicinity, a DSC acknowledgement may, after consultation with an RCC or Coast Station, be sent to terminate the call.
Note 2: In no case is a ship permitted to transmit a DSC distress relay call on receipt of a DSC distress alert on either VHF or MF channels.

ACTIONS BY SHIPS UPON RECEPTION OF HF DSC DISTRESS ALERT COMSAR/Circ.21 -- ANNEX 3
IS THE IS DISTRESS TRANSMIT

ALERT NO COMMUNICATION NO
HF DSC LISTEN ON DISTRESS RELAY
DISTRESS ASSOCIATED ACKNOWLEDED IN PROGRESS ON ON HF TO COAST
ALERT IS RTF OR NBDP OR RELAYED ASSOCIATED RTF STATION AND
RECEIVED CHANNEL(S) BY CS AND OR CHANNELS? INFORM RCC
FOR 5 MINS RCC?
YES YES
RESET
CONTACT RCC VIA
SYSTEM. IS OWN MOST EFFICIENT
DSC Radiotelephone NBDP
VESSEL MEDIUM TO OFFER
4207.5 kHz 4125 kHz 4177.5 kHz YES
ABLE TO ASSISTANCE
6312 kHz 6215 kHz 6268 kHz
ASSIST?
8414.5 kHz 8291 kHz 8376.5 kHz
12577 kHz 12290 kHz 12520 kHz
16804.5 kHz 16420 kHz 16695 kHz
ENTER
NO
DETAILS
IN LOG
Note 1: If it is clear the ship or persons in distress are not in the vicinity and/or other crafts are better placed to assist, superfluous communications which could interfere with
search and rescue activities are to be avoided. Details should be recorded in the appropriate logbook.
Note 2 : The ship should establish communications with the station controlling the distress as directed and render such assistance as required and appropriate.
Note 3 : Distress relay calls should be initiated manually,.

02. Distress, Urgency and Safety Procedures
2.1. Distress Call Before GMDSS
Notes on Distress Call before GMDSS : -
Distress call and message sent only to ships in the vicinity of distress using radiotelephony
channel 16.
2.2. GMDSS Distress Alert Calls
Notes on GMDSS Distress Alert Calls : -
The Distress Alert in GMDSS shall be sent to shore radio station (RCC) and ships in the
vicinity, through satellite or terrestrial means (MF, HF or VHF bands) using Digital Selective
calling (DSC), after which to be followed by subsequent communications to ensure that the
rescue operation starts as soon as possible.
The distress Alert contains the ship’s identification (MMSI), the nature of distress, the position,
the time of the position and preferred type of subsequent communication.

2.3. Distress Alert Relay
Notes on Distress Alert Relay : -
The RCC receiving a Distress alert call shall transmit the acknowledgement on the same DSC
distress calling frequency where the call is received and it should be addressed to all ships. The
acknowledgement should include the identification of the ship in distress and other related
information.
The RCC should then transmit a Distress Relay call, if it considers it is appropriate to do so
2.4. Distress Acknowledgement
Notes on Distress Acknowledgement : -
A ship acknowledges a Distress alert call by radiotelephony on the distress radiotelephony

frequency in the same band in which the DSC distress alert is received. E.g. 2182 KHz on MF
band, channel 16 on VHF band, or on the appropriate distress radiotelephony frequencies on HF
band, as indicated in the table of Radio Distress frequencies of the “GMDSS Operating
Guidance for Masters of Ships in Distress Situation”.
The ACKNOWLEDGEMENT using radiotelephony:
Mayday
MMSI 533224400 X 3 times
This is
Enterprise X 3 times
Received Mayday
Over
2.5. Distress Traffic
Notes on Distress Traffic : -
Distress traffic is all communications related to the immediate assistance required by the ship in
distress, including the search and rescue communications and on scene communications.
Distress traffic by radiotelephony shall be preceded by the distress signal “MAYDAY”.

2.6. Imposing Silence on Distress Frequency or Channel
Notes on imposing silence on Distress frequency or channel : -
By station in distress or station in charge of rescue operation:-
MAYDAY
ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS
THIS IS
LANDS END RADIO, LANDS END RADIO, LANDS END RADIO,
SEELONCE MAYDAY
OVER
By other station:-
MAYDAY
THIS IS
ENTERPRISE, ENTERPRISE, ENTERPRISE, SLUB
SEELONCE DISTRESS
OVER
2.7. Announcement of completion of Distress Operation

Notes on announcement of completion of Distress Operation : -
MAYDAY
THIS IS
LANDS END RADIO, LANDS END RADIO, LANDS END RADIO
MAYDAY AT 231630 FROM SEA WINDS SKUG
SEELONCE FEENEE
OVER
2.8. Urgency Traffic

Notes on Urgency Traffic: - Urgency signal “PAN PAN” indicates that the calling station has a
very urgent message to transmit concerning the safety of a person or the ship.
Announcement is by DSC and the urgency message sent on radiotelephony or MF/HF telex.
PAN PAN, PAN PAN, PAN PAN

THIS IS
265432876 MARCOM SLUB
WE ARE ADRIFT IN POSITION 50 DEG 26.7 MINUTES NORTH
000 DEG 54.3 MINUTES WEST AT 0125 UTC
PLEASE BE ALERT, OVER.

2.9. Announcement of completion of Urgency Traffic
Notes on announcement of completion of Urgency traffic : -
ALL STATIONS, ALL STASIONS, ALL STATIONS

THIS IS
MARCOM, MARCOM, MARCOM, SLUB
WE ARE NO LONGER ADRIFT, MY “PAN PAN” AT 0125 UTC IS CANCELLED
OVER
2.10. Safety Traffic
Notes on Safety traffic: - Safety Signal “SECURITE” (SE-CURE-E-TAY) it indicates that the
calling station has an important meteorological or navigational warning to transmit.
Safety message can be sent either by satellite or via terrestrial system. Safety traffic
announcement shall be made on one of the distress frequencies by DSC. Safety message shall
normally be sent by radiotelephony or radio telex.
Using channel 16:-
SE-CURE-E-TAY, SE-CURE-E-TAY, SE-CURE-E-TAY

THIS IS
002192345 LYNBY RADIO
LISTEN ON CHANNEL 24 FOR GALE WARNIGN 317
OVER

03. DSC - Distress Alert Procedures
COAST
DSC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
STATIONs/RCCs
1
1
DSC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
ALL STATIONS
DSC DISTRESS ALERT
SHIP IN
DISTRESS
2 DISTRESS MESSAGE
3
R/T ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OTHER SHIPS
6/27/2008 AMH/GOC3.1 OR ROC/OCT2001 8 of 30
Notes on DSC Distress Procedures : -
1. Ship in distress send “Distress Alert” by VHF, MF or HF DSC depending on the

Sea Area in which the ship is located. The Distress Alert is automatically sent to
all stations within the coverage area of the selected DSC distress frequency.
2. The Distress Alert shall be acknowledged by coast radio station or RCC via DSC
equipment on the same DSC distress frequency, as soon as possible on VHF
band, on MF or HF band it shall be acknowledged after 1 minute but before 2.75
minutes.
3. After the reception of DSC distress alert acknowledgement, the ship in distress
shall start distress traffic by sending the “Distress Message” using radiotelephony
or radio telex as indicated during the distress alert call (Preferred mode of
communication is radiotelephony).
4. Coast Radio stations (RCCs) and ships stations who are able to provide
assistance shall acknowledge receipt by radiotelephony or radio telex as indicated
in the distress alert.

03. Distress Alert Procedures – VHF DSC
Notes on VHF DSC Distress Procedures : -
Distress Alert by VHF DSC, channel 70 – coverage area is about 30 to 50 nautical miles. (Sea
Area A1)
Who will acknowledge the “Distress Alert” and what equipment will be used?
The initial acknowledgement shall be by Coast Radio Stations or RCC using DSC on the same
DSC distress frequency.
What should you do after receiving the acknowledgement?
Commence Distress traffic by sending “Distress Message” on the corresponding distress

radiotelephony frequency.
ON CHANNEL 16:-
MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY

THIS IS
MARCOM, MARCOM, MARCOM SLUB
MAYDAY
THIS IS
MARCOM, 533224400, SLUB
MY POSITION 54 DEGREE 45 MINUTES NORTH 006 DEGREE 34 MINUTES EAST AT
TIME 1230 UTC
SHIP SINKING
REQUIRE IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE
CREW ON BOARD 24 PERSONS
SEA CONDITIONS VERY ROUGH
OVER

04. Distress Alert Procedures – MF DSC
Notes on MF DSC Distress Procedures : -
Distress Alert by MF DSC, 2187.5 kHz – coverage area is about 150 to 250 nautical miles.(Sea
Area A2)
DSC distress frequency. (2187.5 kHz)

radiotelephony frequency or radio telex frequency (preferred radiotelephony) as indicated in
your distress alert call.
ON 2182 kHz :-

THIS IS
MAYDAY
THIS IS
TIME 1230 UTC
SHIP SINKING
OVER

05. Distress Alert Procedures – HF DSC
Notes on HF DSC Distress Procedures : -
Distress Alert by HF DSC, 8414.5 kHz – coverage area is from few hundreds to thousands of
miles.(Sea Area A3 and A4)
DSC distress frequency.

radiotelephony frequency or radio telex frequency (preferred radiotelephony) as indicated in
your distress alert call.
ON 8291 kHz :-

THIS IS
MAYDAY
THIS IS
TIME 1230 UTC
SHIP SINKING
OVER

06. Distress Alert Procedures – INMARSAT- Telephony
Notes on INMARSAT Distress Procedures by telephony : -
Select Radiotelephony (pick up the headset).
Select “Distress Priority” by pressing and holding the “Distress Button” for the duration
(normally 5 or 6 seconds) specified by the manufacturer.
Distress alert by Inmarsat only provides ship to shore distress alerting (Not for ship to ship
distress alerting).
RCC receiving Distress Alert by Inmarsat will immediately relay the distress alert to all ships
in the vicinity of the distress ship.
You are connected directly by telephone to the associated RCC of the CES or NCS, The
operator at the RCC will acknowledge your distress alert and communicate with you.

Send the DISTRESS MESSAGE

THIS IS
MARCOM, MY INMARSAT MOBILE NUMBER IS 8703224400, CALL SIGN SLUB
TIME 1230 UTC
SHIP SINKING
OVER

07. Distress Alert Procedures – INMARSAT-C
Notes on INMARSAT-C Distress Procedures : -
Distress Alert through Inmarsat-C is only possible by text message and store-and-forward
mode.
Select Distress Menu, select the nearest LES, confirm your ship position and select the nature
of distress from the list (if not in the list, chose undesignated).
Open the protective cover of the distress button, press and hold the “Distress Button” for the
duration (normally 5 or 6 seconds) specified by the manufacturer.
Distress alert by Inmarsat-C only provides ship to shore distress alerting (Not for ship to ship
distress alerting).
If no acknowledgement from RCC within 5 minutes, repeat the distress alert procedure or use
other GMDSS equipment.
Who will acknowledge the “Distress Alert”?

You will receive acknowledgement of your distress alert by a text message from the RCC of
the associated CES or NCS.

Type the distress message shown below and send it to the RCC using the Transmit Menu with
“Distress Priority”:-
THIS IS
MARCOM, MY IMN IS 533224400, CALL SIGN SLUB
TIME 1230 UTC
SHIP SINKING

08. – EPIRB and SART
8.1. Manual Activation of EPIRB when on the life raft
Notes on manual activation of EPIRB when on the life raft : -
Release the lanyard from EPIRB and tie it to the life raft, place the EPIRB into water. It will be
activated automatically.
8.2. Manual Activation of EPIRB from the Bridge
Notes on manual activation of EPIRB from the bridge : -
When all the equipment on the bridge is out of order due to an electrical black-out,
you still can send a distress alert using the EPIRB.
Activate your EPIRB by pushing the switch to the “ON” position and place the EPIRB outside
the bridge.

8.3. Activation of SART when on the life raft
Notes on activation of SART from the life raft : -
Switch on the SART and mount it vertically at least one meter above the sea level. There are
usually audio and/or visual indications when you are detected by a radar.
8.4. Activation of SART from the Bridge
Notes on manual activation of SART from the bridge : -
Switch on the SART and place it vertically outside the bridge, if there is a ship within 10
nautical miles, your position will be indicated on their radar screens.
*Note: AIS-SART may be used.

09. SEARCH AND RESCUE
9.1. Search and Rescue Teams
RCC : - Rescue Coordination Centre.

A unit responsible for promoting efficient organization, and for coordinating the SAR operations
within it Search and Rescue Region (SRR).
RSC : - Rescue Sub-Centre.

A unit subordinate to an RCC, established to complement the RCC within a smaller region.
OSC : - On-Scene Coordinator

A person designated to co-ordinate search and rescue operations within a specified area.
Coast station/Coast Earth Station (CRS/CES) : -

The coast station is the communications link between the units at sea and the RCC. This could
also be a Coast Earth Station for satellite communications.

9.2. Search Patterns (methods)
Parallel Track : -
 For use by two or more ships.
 Use to search a large area when survivor location is uncertain.
 Search legs are parallel to each other and to the long sides of the sub-area
Expanding Square : -
 Most effective when the location of the search object is known within relatively close
limits.
 The commence search point is always the datum position.
 Often appropriate for vessels or small boats to use when searching for persons in the
water or other objects with little or no leeway.
 Accurate navigation is required. The first leg is usually oriented directly into the wind to
minimize navigational errors.
Sector Search: -
 Most effective when the position of the search is accurately known and the search area is
small
 Used to search a circular area centered on a datum point.
 The search pattern radius is usually between 2 NM and 5 NM, and each turn is 120
degree, normally turned to starboard.
Radar detection ranges
Targets Radar scanner height

15 m 30m
10,000 GRT ship 13.0 NM 18.0 NM

1,000 GRT ship 6.0 NM 8.4 NM
200 GRT ship 5.5 NM 7.7 NM
9 m boat 1.9 NM 2.7 NM

10. FALSE DISTRESS ALERT
10.1. Cancellation of False Distress Alert Sent by VHF DSC
Notes on Cancellation of False Distress Alert sent by VHF DSC : -

1. Switch off VHF transmitter to stop distress alert transmission.
2. Switch VHF equipment on and set to Channel 16 then
3. Make broadcast to “All Stations” as follows:-

THIS IS
MARCOM, CALL SIGN SLUB, MMSI 533224400
POSITION 04 DEGREE 45 MINUTES NORTH 005 DEGREE 50 MINUTES EAST AT
TIME 1230 UTC
CANCEL MY DISTRESS ALERT (OF DATE AND TIME, IF KNOWN)
MASTER MARCOM
OVER
10.2. Cancellation of False Distress Alert Sent by MF DSC
Notes on Cancellation of False Distress Alert sent by MF DSC : -

1. Switch off MF transmitter to stop distress alert transmission.
2. Switch MF equipment on and set to 2182 kHz then
3. Make broadcast to “All Stations” as follows:-

THIS IS
MARCOM, CALL SIGN SLUB, MMSI 533224400
POSITION 04 DEGREE 45 MINUTES NORTH 005 DEGREE 50 MINUTES EAST AT
TIME 1230 UTC
CANCEL MY DISTRESS ALERT (OF DATE AND TIME, IF KNOWN)
MASTER MARCOM
OVER

10.3. Cancellation of False Distress Alert Sent by HF DSC
Notes on Cancellation of False Distress Alert sent by HF DSC : -
Same as for MF, but the alert must be cancelled on each of the frequency bands where it was
transmitted i.e. consecutively on radiotelephony distress frequencies in the 4, 6, 8, 12, and 16
MHz bands as necessary.
10.4. Cancellation of False Distress Alert Sent by INMARSAT-C
Notes on Cancellation of False Distress Alert sent by Inmarsat-C : -
Notify the appropriate RCC to cancel the alert by sending a distress priority message via the
same CES through which the false distress alert was sent.
Example of message.
MARCOM, SLUB, IMN 426543200

POSITION 45 DEGREE 11 MINUTES SOUTH 049 35 MINUTES WEST AT TIME 1230
UTC
CANCEL MY INMARSAT-C DISTRESS ALERT OF 23 JUN 2008 AT TIME 1225 UTC
MASTER MARCOM
Send the above cancellation message using Transmit menu with distress priority via the same
CES through which the false distress alert was sent.

10.5. Summary of False Distress Alert
Notes on Summary of False Distress Alert : -
If you have sent out a False Distress Alert : -
a) Keep watch at the GMDSS station, wait for an acknowledgement
b) Communicate with the Rescue Coordination Centre that has acknowledged the false alert.
c) If no acknowledgement is received, contact any RCC or Coast station.
d) Make sure that all radio operators are aware of the serious consequences of a false alert.
e) Be careful with equipment that you are not familiar with.
f) Routine testing should only be allowed under supervision of a designated operator.
g) EPIRB should only be tested by qualified personnel.
The best way to avoid false alerts is to make sure that all personnel on the bridge are regularly
trained on how to send distress alerts on the ship’s radio equipment.

Table of contents
01. Abandoning Ship
02. Man Over Board
03. A Potential Problem
04. Fire On Board

1. Abandoning Ship
Abandoning ship : -
You are the officer on watch on M.V Marcom, SLUB.
All the equipment on the screen is available; in additional to the main communication
equipment on the bridge, you also have EPIRB, SART and portable VHF.
The ship’s position is in the Atlantic Ocean, Northeast of South America.
Captain’s commands: “All hands, all hands, prepare to abandon ship on the portside”
You are the designated GMDSS operator, What should you do now to get help?
Recommended procedures, in order of action : -

2. Man Over Board
Man Over Board : -
You are the officer on watch on MT SIERRA, GHIM and your position is West of Rotterdam.
On the bridge are you, the captain and able seaman, Jones.
MAN OVERBOARD!!! Smith has fallen overboard.
Captain’s command:- “ Smith has fallen overboard, send out distress alert immediately, start a
man overboard manoeuvre.”

3. A Potential Problem
A Potential Problem : -
You are the officer on watch on MV Dancer, ERIF. On the bridge are you and able seaman
Wright. The area is not within coverage by VHF DSC Channel 70 or MF DSC 2187.5 kHz.
Your electrical blackout is giving you an immediate problem. You can no longer manoeuvre
properly. The Chief Engineer reports that it will take at least an hour to fix the problem. You are
disabled and there is another ship on collision course.
You must send an alert immediately to the approaching ship.

4. Fire on Board
Fire On Board: -
You are the officer on watch on MV Grace, DLIM. On the bridge are you and able seaman
Wright. The area is not within coverage by VHF DSC channel 70 or MF DSC 2187.5 kHz.
Captain’s command: - “Fire in the engine room, we need immediate help.”
You are the designated GMDSS operator, What should you do now to get help?

Table of contents
01. Distress Situations
02. Notes on Distress Situations

01. Distress Situations
General
In this test you will be placed in 3 different situations where you need to communicate in
accordance with GMDSS.
You fail immediately if you select the wrong type of equipment or if you press the wrong button
on the equipment, so be careful! Also, you only have one minute to spend in each situation!
If you fail in any of these 3 situations, it is recommended that you repeat the corresponding
chapters in the books “Procedures” and “Applications”
Note 1: In the following exercise, make sure that you always send designated alerts.
Note 2: Please note that in the following exercise, the situation given below will appear in any
sequence as decided by the computer.
Distress situation 1: - MV RoRo, KIGH. – Receiving Distress Alert
You are the officer on watch on MV RoRo on your way to South America. You are receiving a
distress alert, what do you do now?
Distress situation 2 : - MV Container – heavily listing and sinking
You are the officer on watch on MV Container and your position is East of Africa. You are
heavily listing and you are sinking.
Send out a distress alert by Inmarsat-C
Distress situation 3 : - MV Blue Cruise – ship adrift – send Urgency message
You are the officer on watch on the bridge of Blue Cruise and it is in the early morning. The
passengers are still asleep. There is some problems in the engine room. You can no longer
manoeuvre properly.
You are adrift and need to send out an Urgency message via DSC.
Distress situation 4 : - MV Cargo, SLMB – Electrical blackout
You are the officer on watch on MV Cargo and your position is Southwest of Japan. You are
drifting towards a reef. There is heavy radio interference from the thunderstorm.
You have an electrical blackout on the bridge and all your bridge equipment including your
emergency power backup system are out of order.
You must send out a distress alert. What do you do?

02 -Notes on Distress Situations
Distress situation 1: - MV RoRo, KIGH. – Receiving Distress Alert
Distress situation 2 : - MV Container – heavily listing and sinking
Distress situation 3 : - MV Blue Cruise – ship adrift – send Urgency message
Distress situation 4 : - MV Cargo, SLMB – Electrical blackout

Malaysian Maritime Academy (ALAM)
Window Delivery 2051, Masjid Tanah Post Office
78300 Masjid Tanah, Melaka
Tel: 06-3882200 (ask for REGISTRY)
e-mail: alam_registrar@alam.edu.my
Website: www.alam.edu.my

MCGR-WORKBOOK - 02nov2021

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

MCGR-WORKBOOK - 02nov2021

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

MARITIME SIMULATION AND COMMUNICATIONS

GMDSS GENERAL OPERATOR’S CERTIFICATE (GOC)

Use the respective spaces provided.

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 1 of 90

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 2 of 90

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 19 of 90

Notes on Basic Concept of the GMDSS :

Certifications For GMDSS

General Operator’s Certificate (GOC) – World-wide operation, i.e

Restricted Operator’s Certificate (ROC) – For Sea Area A1 only.

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 20 of 90

Functions for GMDSS : -

02. Transmit and receive ship-to-ship distress alerts.

Transmit and receive using DSC – normally on VHF and MF bands.

03. Receive shore-to-ship distress alerts.

04. Transmit and receive Search and Rescue coordinating communications.

05. Transmit and receive on-scene communications.

06. Transmit and receive signals for locating.

07. Transmit and receive bridge-to-bridge communications.

08. Transmit and receive Maritime Safety Information.

1. Navtex - for coastal warning (Sea areas A1 and A2)

09. Transmit and receive General Radio-communications.

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 21 of 90

3.2. VHF DSC Encoder/Decoder & Channel 70 Watch Keeping Receiver :-

The subsequent communication is done by radiotelephony on channel 16.

3.3. MF/HF Transceiver : -

3.4. MF/HF DSC Encoder/Decoder and Watch Keeping Receiver : -

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 22 of 90

For Receiving MSI transmitted on HF frequencies.

3.6. INMARSAT Satellite : -

3.7. INMARSAT-FLEET BROADBAND (FB500) & GLOBAL EXPRESS : -

 It uses digital technology.

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 23 of 90

 Messages begin with a header code e.g. consists of ZCZC B1B2B3B4.

3.10. INMARSAT Safety-Net or HF MSI : -

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 24 of 90

3.12. RADAR SART/AIS-SART : -

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 25 of 90

 For on-scene communications between survival crafts/life rafts and ships

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 26 of 90

01. Safety of Life At Sea ( SOLAS ) (IMO): -

02. Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary - (Standard Marine Communication

05. International Telecommunications Union’s Manual : -

06. GMDSS Master Plan : -

07. IAMSAR Manual : -

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 27 of 90

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 28 of 90

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 29 of 90

Radio Cycle and Radio Frequencies : -

Maritime Services only use parts of the frequency spectrums as below.

Medium Frequency (MF) & communication range : -

 Frequency range from 300 kHz to 3000 kHz (3 MHz)

High Frequency (HF) & communication range : -

 Frequency range from 3 MHz to 30 MHz

Very High Frequency (VHF) & communication range : -

 Frequency range from 30 MHz to 300 MHz

MCGR/MSC/EDITED ON 112021 ccw Page 30 of 90

F1B : - Frequency Shift Keying Telegraphy

Emission class for radiotelex, NAVTEX and DSC

J3E : - AM Single Sideband Suppressed Carrier

Emission class for MF and HF telephony.

H3E : - AM Single Sideband Full Carrier

This emission class is used for distress on telephony 2182 KHz