TITEL: GLOBAL MARITIME DISTRESS

AND SIGNAL SYSTEM

NAME: LINO BEBULA

GRADE: 12

SUBJECT: NAUTICAL SCIENCE

EDUCATOR: MR GROVE’

DUE DATE: 13 MAY 2024

https://ik.imagekit.io/nnxh9whs7ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/vhfch16.png [a]
TABLE OF CONTENT pg no.
1. Introduction 1
2. Concept of GMDSS 1
3. Organisations of GMDSS 1
4. Components of GMDSS 1
5. Sea Areas 2
6. Conclusion 3
7. Appendix 3
8. Bibliography 4

i
1. INTODUCTION
The Global Maritime Distress and Signal System (GMDSS) is an internationally recognised set of
communication protocols and equipment used for maritime safety. It ensures that ships at sea can
communicate with each other and with shore based authorities in case of emergency or distress. Area 3
refers to one of the GMDSS sea areas designated for communication purposes.
https://www.gov.uk/maritime-safety-weather-and-navigation[3]

2. CONCEPT OF GMDSS
The GMDSS became an international standard in 1988 and became fully operational in 1999. The goal
was to improve emergency communications and automate many functions of the radio officer. Digital
Selective Calling allows for automatic hailing and communications with a specific vessel, and the creation
of specific equipment lists for the four different sea areas standardized what vessels must be equipped
with. These standards apply to all passenger ships and cargo ships 300 GT or above in international
waters. The training was also standardized to ensure all bridge officers were able to use the equipment on
board. https://www.dockwalk.com/safety/gmdss[2]

3. ORGANISATIONS OF GMDSS
The organization of the GMDSS involves several key components

Shipborne Equipment: Ships are equipped with GMDSS-compliant communication equipment, which may
include VHF radio, MF/HF radio, satellite communication systems (such as Inmarsat), NAVTEX
(Navigational Telex), and EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons).

Shore-Based Facilities: There are shore-based facilities that form the backbone of the GMDSS
infrastructure. These include Coast Radio Stations (CRS), Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres
(MRCC), and Maritime Safety Information (MSI) providers. These facilities monitor distress frequencies,
coordinate search and rescue operations, and broadcast safety-related information.

Sea Areas: The world's oceans are divided into Sea Areas, each of which has designated radio
frequencies and coverage areas for communication purposes. These areas help ensure that vessels can
communicate effectively regardless of their location.

GMDSS Distress Alerts and Communications: The GMDSS establishes protocols for the transmission and
reception of distress alerts and communications. Distress alerts can be sent via various means, including
DSC (Digital Selective Calling), EPIRBs, and satellite systems. Once a distress alert is received,
appropriate authorities are notified to coordinate search and rescue efforts.
https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/OurWork/Safety/Documents/GMDSSand [7]

4. COMPONENTS OF GMDSS
The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System consist of several components that work together to
ensure the safety and communication of mariners at Sea. These components include:

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs): EPIRBs are distress beacons designed to
transmit a distress signal to satellites and search and rescue authorities in the event of an emergency.
They provide accurate position information to facilitate swift rescue operations. 1
Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs): SARTs are portable radar transponders used to locate and
rescue distressed vessels. When activated, they emit pulses that are displayed on radar screens of nearby
vessels and aircraft, making it easier for rescuers to locate the distressed vessel.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC): DSC is a digital communication system that enables distress alerts, as well
as routine and urgency calls, to be sent via radio. It allows for selective calling to specific vessels or shore
stations and ensures reliable and efficient communication.

Very High Frequency (VHF) Radio: VHF radios are commonly used for short-range communication
between vessels and with coastal stations. They play a crucial role in maritime communication, including
distress alerts, ship-to-ship communication, and coordination with rescue authorities. In SA have VHF
Radiotelephony CH 16 watch keeping

Inmarsat Satellite Communication: Inmarsat provides satellite communication services that enable vessels
to communicate beyond the range of traditional radio systems. It supports voice, data, and fax
transmission, as well as distress alerting via Inmarsat-C and Inmarsat-E.

NAVTEX (Navigational Telex): NAVTEX is a system for broadcasting maritime safety information,
including navigational warnings, weather forecasts, and search and rescue notices. It provides automatic
reception of messages on designated frequencies, enhancing situational awareness for mariners.
https://www.marineinsight.com/marine-navigation/introduction-gmdss-global-maritime-distress-
safety-system/ [1]

5. SEA AREAS
The GMDSS operates over 4 sea areas of coverage from shore to ship. The 4 sea areas are classified as:
A1, A2, A3 and A4.

Sea area A1: Covered by VHF radio enabling Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and Radio Telephone (RT).
Determined range of approximately 20-30 nautical miles.

Sea area A2: Covered by MF radio also enabling DSC and RT. Determined range up to 150 nautical mile.

Sea area A3: Covered by HF radio and Inmarsat geostationary satellite enabling DSC and satellite
communication 70°N and below 70°S.

Sea area A4: Categorized as the Polar Regions above 70°N and below 70°S. This area requires HF radio
with DSC. https://www.ewliner.com/gmdss-manual.html [4]

For this particular situation here's how you can use the Global Maritime Distress and Safety
System (GMDSS) to alert authorities and other vessels:

You should immediately activate the distress alert. For a fire, you would use the voice or DSC distress
alert, which sends out an automatic distress signal including your vessel's position. Use the appropriate
channel for distress communication. Channel 16 on the VHF radio is used for initial distress call. When
making the distress call, provide essential information such as:

Nature of the emergency (in this case, a fire in the engine room). The vessel's name, call sign, and MMSI
(Maritime Mobile Service Identity). The vessel's current position (latitude and longitude)

The extent of the fire, potential hazards, and the number of crew on board. 2
 After sending out the distress alert, you maintain continuous monitoring of the distress channel for any
response from nearby vessels or authorities. Make use of other GMDSS equipment onboard to enhance
the distress alert, such as activating the EPIRB or the SART if necessary. These devices provide
additional means for locating your vessel in distress. Follow established communication procedures and
protocols outlined in the GMDSS regulations. This includes listening for and responding to any
communications from rescue coordination centres or nearby vessels offering assistance. Keep authorities
and nearby vessels informed of the situation with regular updates. This ensures that they have the most
accurate information to coordinate rescue efforts effectively. https://www.nauticalmind.com/103322/gmdss-
manual-ebook-hardcover/ [5]

6. CONCLUSION

In conclusion the aim of the GMDSS was to improve emergency communications and automate many
functions of the radio officer. The GMDSS organisation involves several key components and these
organisations of the GMDSS is designed to provide a robust communication and distress alert system that
enhances safety at sea and facilitates rapid response to emergencies. The components of a GMDSS work
together to enhance maritime safety and ensure effective communication in distress situation at sea.
https://maritimesa.org/ [6]

7. APPENDIX

MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY

THIS IS MV SUPERSIZE SUPERSIZE SUPERSIZE, CALL SIGN ZULU TANGO ROMEO 1234,
MMSI NUMBER 601234567

(brief pause)

MAYDAY

MV SUPERSIZE

IN POSITION 247 ,13‫’ﹾ‬SOUTH, 00229,5‫’ﹾ‬EAST

WE HAVE A FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM

REQUIRE IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE

12 PEOPLE ON BOARD

EMBARKING INTO ONE LIFE RAFT

FINE WEATHER

CURRENT SETTING WEST

2 KNOTS

OVER 3
8. Bibliography

a. https://ik.imagekit.io/nnxh9whs7ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/vhfch16.png

1. Bhattacharjee, S. (2023, May 7). Introduction to Global Maritime Distress Safety System
(GMDSS) – What BYou Must Know. Marine Insight. Accessed date 27 April 2024
https://www.marineinsight.com/marine-navigation/introduction-gmdss-global-maritime-
distress-safety-system/

2. CVA, K. (2017). https://www.medwinpublishers.com/JOBD/JOBD16000139.pdf. Journal

of Orthopaedics & Bone Disorders, 1(7). https://doi.org/10.23880/jobd-16000139 Accessed
date 20 April 2024

3. Gmdss. (2016, February 12). https://www.gov.uk/maritime-safety-weather-and-

navigation Accessed date 27 April 2024

4. GMDSS Manual, 2024 Edition. (n.d.). https://www.ewliner.com/gmdss-manual.html

Accessed date 20 April 2024

5. https://www.nauticalmind.com/103322/gmdss-manual-ebook-hardcover/ no author info

found Accessed date 5 May 2024

6. Maritime Studies South Africa. (n.d.). https://maritimesa.org Accessed date 5 May 2024

7. Morley, T. (2021, March 26). The Global Maritime Distress & Safety System.
https://www.dockwalk.com/safety/gmdss Accessed date: 2 May 2024

8. SAMTRA SRC manual author unknown accessed on the 5 May 2024