Distress, urgency and safety communications
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether qualified officers can select and send the correct alert and follow-up message through available GMDSS systems, while receiving and acting on others' messages, and whether plans, records and interviews demonstrate that the procedure is applied during real voyages rather than completed only as paperwork.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1What is the operational purpose of distress, urgency and safety communications?
Qualified officers can select and send the correct alert and follow-up message through available gmdss systems, while receiving and acting on others' messages.
2Show how the procedure was applied on the last voyage.
Use training mode or tabletop scenarios and radio-log entries to demonstrate alert selection, message content, acknowledgement, relay and cancellation without live transmission.
3Which decision requires the Master's judgement?
The Master or responsible operator decides which system and priority suit the casualty, sea area and available communications and whether distress relay is required.
4What happens if the planned control becomes invalid?
Use alternate GMDSS equipment, maintain listening watch, send the minimum accurate position and casualty information and report any false or failed alert immediately.
5How are changes communicated and recorded?
Brief the affected bridge and machinery personnel, amend the controlled plan or record, obtain required approval and retain the reason and revised limits.
Where an observation may arise
Records exist but the bridge team cannot relate them to the actual voyage or operation.
A material change is not reassessed, approved, briefed or recorded.
Instructions refer to a different make, terminal or obsolete service.
The operator cannot distinguish distress, urgency and safety use.
Cancellation is delayed or sent through the wrong route.
Master's practical note
Use a scenario with one failed communication method. Competence is shown by moving to the next suitable system while keeping the message accurate and concise.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Exercises must avoid transmitting false alerts. The modernised GMDSS framework and recognised mobile-satellite services depend on sea area and the ship's approved installation.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 4.4.4
- SOLAS Chapter IV, as amended
- IMO GMDSS Manual
- ITU Radio Regulations
- IAMSAR Manual Volume III
Last reviewed: 2026-09-11