GMDSS Overview

The basic concept of (GMDSS) is that search and rescue authorities ashore, as well as shipping in the immediate vicinity of the ship in distress, will be rapidly alerted to a distress incident so that they can assist in a co-ordinated SAR operation with the minimum delay.

The system also provides for ugency and safety communications and Maritime Safety Information (MSI):-
- Navigational Warning
- Meteorological warnings
- Weather forecasts
- Urgent and Safety information to ships.

If used correctly and the correct procedures are followed the GMDSS will to save lives at sea.

By attending a YachtCom GMDSS course you will learn about the GMDSS and use real GMDSS equipment.

Courses are:-

Short Range Certificate

Long Range Certificate

Benefits of GMDSS

Distress, Urgency and Safety communication is monitored by the DSC radio so no watchkeeping on traditional voice frequencies/channels is required.

At the press of a button, a ship can send a distress to shore and other vessels which includes the ships identity, position and nature of distress.

GMDSS also changes the nature of Routine and Safety Radio operation. These become fully automatic, enabling ship’s to deal with all incoming and outgoing ship’s radio communication.

It is no longer be necessary to sail while monitoring the radio, when a call comes in an alarm is sounded, just like a mobile phone!

Components of GMDSS

The GMDSS consists of several different safety systems based around different communications technologies. These include:-

• Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
• NAVTEX
• INMARSAT,
• EPIRBs
• SARTs
• VHF , MF and HF Communication.