Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) - What, Where. Why?

The Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) is an internationally agreed-upon set of safety procedures, types of equipment, and communication protocols used to increase safety and make it easier to rescue distressed ships, boats and aircraft.

GMDSS consists of several systems, some of which are new, but many of which have been in operation for many years. The system is intended to perform the following functions: alerting (including position determination of the unit in distress), search and rescue coordination, locating (homing), maritime safety information broadcasts, general communications, and bridge-to-bridge communications. Specific radio carriage requirements depend upon the ship's area of operation, rather than its tonnage. The system also provides redundant means of distress alerting, and emergency sources of power.

Duties of a Radio operator in a RIG/Barge

·        Maintain radio communications with shore bases, other vessels and helicopters.

·        Maintain watch on international distress frequencies in order to be of assistance if required.

·        In the event of rig emergency maintains communication with bases and outside emergency co-ordination centers.

·        Provide helicopters with current weather information as required.

·        Maintain SAR watch whilst helicopters in transit to and from rig.

·        Liaise with Helicopter Landing Officer reference helicopter movements.

·        Relay helicopter flight information to helicopter shore base if requested by pilot.

·        Ensure compliance with requirements for radios and associated equipment during radio silence periods.

·        Advise supply vessels of helicopter movements, emergency drills and radio silence requirements.

·        Make regular PA announcements reference helicopter movements, radio silence and other safety related information.

·        Conduct planned maintenance on radio and navigation equipment.

·        Conduct weekly checks on emergency batteries (radio equip) and charger system.

·        Conduct scheduled inspections and maintenance on all radio and navigation equipment.

·        Including emergency communication and navigation equipment in lifeboats etc.

·        Assist Electronic Technician to troubleshoot and repair faulty radio an navigation equipment.

·        Make weather observations and reports if required