OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY

College of Maritime Education

MCOM211
COURSE
MARITIME COMMUNICATIONS GMDSS FOR GOC
LABORATORY EXERCISE # 10

TOPIC Frequency approved by ITU

LEARNING LO2.3 Transmit and receive information regarding ship reporting 

OUTCOME

Table A-II/5 Controlling the operation of the ship and care for persons on board
Function 3
at the support level
STCW’78 A-IV/2 C1: Transmit and receive information using GMDSS subsystems and
Competence equipment and fulfilling the functional requirements of GMDSS
.1 Search and rescue radio communications, including procedures in the
STCW 78/KUP
International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual

Resource ITU Manual

● Power Point Presentations (PPT)

● Handouts
Teaching Aids ● Poster or Video

Make an essay on the topic of the GMDSS frequency used in distress types of

communication used by the GMDSS, including:

1. MF (medium frequency) and HF (high frequency) bands for long-range

Laboratory distress and safety communication
Exercise 2. VHF (very high frequency) bands for short-range communication and
coordination between vessels and coast stations
3. UHF (ultra-high frequency) bands for satellite communication

Threshold The students will get the score of 9 out of 12 in order to pass the assessment

Prepared by Instructor:
SINADJAN, JOHN DLAIN C.
_____________________________________ Capt. Herminigildo R. Alcid
Student Signature Over Printed Name/Date Instructor Signature Over Printed Name/Date

Reviewed and Validated by:

_____CAPT. Marlon U. Pascual

HOD BSMT

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 OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY
College of Maritime Education

Approved by (College Dean/HOD):

___Engr. Francis Jay Dela Cruz MME Ph.D.

DEAN/CME

GMDSS Frequency in Distress

The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) is an internationally recognized system that
provides for the rapid and efficient transmission of distress alerts from ships at sea to coastal rescue
authorities. It is a complex system that makes use of various communication technologies, including
satellites, radio frequencies, and digital technology. Among the various frequencies used in distress
communication, the GMDSS frequency plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of mariners and their
vessels.

The GMDSS frequency is a VHF frequency of 156.8 MHz, which is designated for use in the digital selective
calling (DSC) system. The DSC is a core component of the GMDSS, allowing vessels to send a distress signal
to other vessels and rescue authorities in case of an emergency. The DSC system operates using a unique
nine-digit MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number assigned to each vessel, enabling accurate
identification of the vessel in distress.

In addition to the DSC system, the GMDSS frequency is also used for voice communication in distress
situations. This frequency is used in conjunction with the GMDSS voice channels, which are reserved for
distress, urgency, and safety communication. These channels are designated as Channel 16 for VHF,
Channel 2182 kHz for MF, and Channel 2187.5 kHz for HF.

The GMDSS frequency and the DSC system are vital tools in emergency situations, as they allow mariners to
quickly and efficiently transmit distress signals. In case of an emergency, the DSC system automatically
sends an alert to all vessels and rescue authorities in the vicinity, ensuring that the distress signal is
received by as many parties as possible. This feature is especially important in remote or isolated areas
where there may be few vessels or rescue authorities nearby.

Moreover, the GMDSS frequency is also used for other safety and operational purposes, such as
navigational warnings, meteorological information, and ship-to-ship communication. These functions are
supported by a range of GMDSS equipment, including VHF, MF, and HF radios, as well as satellite
communication systems.

In conclusion, the GMDSS frequency is an essential component of the GMDSS system, providing a reliable
and efficient means of communication for mariners in distress situations. Its use in the DSC system and
voice communication channels ensures that distress signals are rapidly and accurately transmitted to
rescue authorities, maximizing the chances of a successful rescue operation. Additionally, the GMDSS
frequency plays a critical role in other safety and operational functions, further highlighting its importance
in modern maritime communication.

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