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Felcom SSASInfo SVC Manual
Felcom SSASInfo SVC Manual
FELCOM 15/16
Important;
This manual is intended for use by authorized
FURUNO service technicians for the installation
of this equipment.
Under no circumstances should the contents of
this manual be released to the user.
Contents
1. System ········································································································· 1
1.1 System Overview···································································································1
1.2 Carriage Requirement····························································································2
1.3 SSAS operation flow ·····························································································3
2. System configuration·················································································· 6
2.1 FELCOM 15 SSAS system ···················································································6
2.2 FELCOM 16 SSAS system ···················································································7
2.3 Power Supply·········································································································8
3. Installation·································································································· 9
3.1 Location of Antenna ······························································································9
3.2 Location of SSAS Alert Unit: IC-307····································································10
4. Setup············································································································ 11
4.1 Jumper setting········································································································11
4.2 Menu setting ··········································································································12
5. Operation ···································································································· 14
5.1 Operation mode ·····································································································14
5.2 Changing password ·······························································································15
5.3 Getting into SSAS manager mode·········································································16
5.4 SSAS menu setting ································································································17
5.4.1 Setting “SSAS Report 1-5” Destination ·····················································17
5.4.2 Setting Message Contents···········································································18
6. Functional test···························································································· 20
6.1 Error message ········································································································20
6.2 Alert button test ·····································································································21
6.3 Sending Test Message (Test mode) ·······································································22
6.3.1 FELCOM 15 and FELCOM 16; when PC terminal is connected ···············22
6.3.2 FELCOM 16; when PC terminal is not connected ······································23
i
Contents
8. Q&A ············································································································ 29
Q1) Which protocol does SSAS report use ?
Q2) Is SSAS alert free of charge ?
Q3) Is Inmarsat D+ a Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) solution ?
Q4) How many SSAS alert unit (IC-307) is required ?
Q5) Does FELCOM 15/16 SSAS carry the wheel mark (the EC conformity mark) ?
Q6) Which classification society issues the type approval certificate for FELCOM 15/16 SSAS ?
Q7) What happens when the unit is turned on with the alert button ON ?
Q8) How many operating modes does FELCOM 15/16 SSAS have ?
Q9) How often SSAS report is transmitted ?
Q10) Which terminal is selected to the destination type ?
Q11) How to fill in Other Inf. Line ?
Q12) Which memory retains SSAS report data ?
Q13) Which priority does SSAS report have ?
Q14) What happen, when press the alert button after the ship moves in the other ocean region ?
Q15) What happens when the SSAS alert button is pressed in Logout mode ?
Q16) Why SSAS alert units are connected in daisy chain configuration ?
Q17) Why the number of the SSAS alert unit is limited to 3 ?
Q18) Why existing Inmarsat-C does not synchronize with the NCS Common
Channel after installing FELCOM 16 SSAS system additionally ?
(Both units are set to use the same NCS CC.)
Q19) What test should be performed after installation ?
Q20) Neither audible nor visible alarm is generated when the SSAS alert button is
pressed. How can we recognize SSAS transmission ?
Q21) The alert cannot be cancelled with the alert button depressed what should I do.
Q22) Can we send SSAS Test Message using Inmarsat loopback test facility ?
Q23) Can SSAS function be switched on and off ?
Q24) How multiple SSAS reports are transmitted ?
Q25) How the system works when ocean region changes ?
Q26) What happens if E-mail address is wrong ?
Q27) How classNK test the SSAS installation ?
ii
Contents
Appendix
Checklist for survey of ship Security Alert System
National contact points by SSAS
MSC Res. 147(77)
MSC Cric 1072
MSC Cric 1073
Outline Drawing
IC-115/116 Antenna unit (C5635-G01) -------------------------------------------------------- D-1
IC-216 (C5638-G01) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- D-2
IC-215 (C5635-G02) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- D-3
PR-240 (C5003-G3) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- D-4
Junction Box: IC-315 (C5635-G06) ---------------------------------------------------------- D-5
SSAS Alert unit: IC-307 (C5635-G10) ------------------------------------------------------- D-6
SSAS Alert unit (Bulkhead mount): IC-307(C5635-G11) ------------------------------ D-7
Lithium Battery: BU-160(C5635-Gxx)---------------------------------------------------- D-8
Interconnection Diagram
FELCOM 15 (C5635-C01) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- S-1
FELCOM 16 (C5638-C01) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- S-2
Schematic Diagram
Communication unit: IC-216 (C5638-K01)--------------------------------------------------- S-3
IC-216 SSAS I/F board: 16P0230 (C5638-K05) --------------------------------------------- S-4
SSAS Alert unit: IC-307 (C5635-K20) -------------------------------------------------------- S-5
Lithium Battery: BU-160 (C5635-K21) ------------------------------------------------------- S-6
PR-240: IC-307 (C5003-K02) ------------------------------------------------------------------ S-7
iii
SSAS
1. System
** Introduction **
Company Security Officer is responsible to decide;
1) Location of the antenna and alert unit
2) Selection of power supply
3) Contents of SSAS report message
4) Selection of station where SSAS alert report is sent
5) Report transmission interval
- Factory- program modified sets for SSAS
FELCOM 15: SNo. 3533-1699 and after
FELCOM 16: SNo. 3534-0695 and after
- Factory- FELCOM 16 hardwear modified ([Junction] port added.) sets foe SSAS
SNo. 3534-0264 and after
1. System
1.1 System overview
When a ship is under attack, an SSAS report containing ship’s name and MMSI number,
position is sent to up to five locations specified by the ship’s captain or authorized
personnel. Neither audible nor visible alarm is generated while the SSAS report is being
transmitted to ensure intruders are not alerted.
The SOLAS Regulation XI-2/6 requires vessels of 500 GT or more constructed before 1
July 2004 to install an SSAS.
Inmarsat System
Headquarters
Ship
Ship’s Company,
Management Company
1
1. System
2
1. System
ON
Latch-type SW
Max. 5 Address
In Report is not
listed in the log.
Note)
- When transmitting is “unsuccessful,” retransmission occurs with another LES.
- When “Delivery Status” is “Not Complete,” or not receiving “Delivery Status”
within 30 minutes , retransmission occurs with another LES.
3
1. System
4
1. System
>From: 443199010@satmailc.com
>Date: Wed, 28 Apr 2004 06:34:17 UTC
>Subject: SSAS ALERT REPORT
>To: felcom@devlan1.furuno.co.jp
>
>
>
>--- SSAS ALERT MESSAGE ---
>Vessel Name: furuno test
>MMSI: 431990000 Registered MMSI and IMN
>IMN: 443199010
>IMO No. 1234567 Text field (Max 180 characters).
>COS: MR. N FURUNO
>LAT: 34:00.00N
>LON: 135:00.00E
>Time: 04/28/2004 06:03:56(UTC) These data is fed from
>COURSE: 92.0 deg navigational equipment.
>SPEED: 8.5 kt
>Time: MM/DD/YYYY hh:mm:ss(UTC)
Define)
Port facility security plan
means a plan developed to ensure the application of measures designed to
protect the port facility and ships, persons, cargo, cargo transport units and
ship's stores within the port facility from the risks of a security incident.
Ship security officer
means the person on board the ship, accountable to the master, designated by
the Company as responsible for the security of the ship, including
implementation and maintenance of the ship security plan and for liaison with
the company security officer and port facility security officers.
Company security officer
means the person designated by the Company for ensuring that a ship security
assessment is carried out; that a ship security plan is developed, submitted for
approval, and thereafter implemented and maintained and for liaison with port
facility security officers and the ship security officer.
Port facility security officer
means the person designated as responsible for the development,
implementation, revision and maintenance of the port facility security plan and
for liaison with the ship security officers and company security officers.
5
2. System configuration
2. System configuration
2.1 FELCOM 15 SSAS system
FELCOM 15 SSAS system shows as below. SSAS alert units IC-307s are connected to
the terminal unit IC-215 via the junction box IC-315 in Daisy Chain wiring method.
Note that in SSAS system, DMC-5 cannot be connected.
FURUNO
IC-115
(Antenna Unit)
DMC
TTYCS-4 or CO-0.2x2P IC-307
(Terminal Unit)
JUNCTION
(SSAS Alert Unit)
16S0344 (2m)
IC-215
GPS
IC-307
(SSAS Alert Unit)
24VDC
TD/RD-A/B
IC-315
IC306
(Alarm Unit)
100/220CAC 24VDC
(Ships Main) (Backuped)
NAV
EXT IC306
GPS (Alarm Unit)
6
2. System configuration
The program floppy disk contains the latest RF CON/CPU (165015-03-02 or above)
and TERM CPU (1650162-03-02 or above) programs. The program for SSAS and
non-SSAS versions are the same.
** Factory- program modified sets for SSAS; Serial No. 3533-1699 and after. **
FURUNO
IC-116
(Antenna Unit)
DMC
JUNCTION
(Comm. Unit)
INT
GPS
24VDC IC-307
(SSAS Alert Unit)
IC-315
PR-240
(AC Power Supply)
100/220CAC 24VDC
(Ships Main) (Backuped)
Note that for SSAS modification, [Junction] port on the rear panel is added.
Factory-modified sets;
Serial No. 3534-0264 (Shipment in January 2004) and after.
7
2. System configuration
The program floppy disk contains the latest RF CON/CPU (1650160-03-02 or above)
and PC Terminal (1650166-03-02 or above) programs. The program for SSAS and
non-SSAS versions are the same.
** Factory- program modified sets for SSAS: Serial No. 3534-0695 and after. **
Note)
Note)
When the BU-160 is connected to the PR-240, the PR-240 should be modified for
automatic power supply switching circuit. Factory modification will be in the August
2004 after.
8
3. Installation
3. Installation
This page describes point to install FELCOM 15 and/or FELCOM 16 for SSAS system.
FELCOM 16
FELCOM 15
9
3. Installation
In the example,
the unit is fitted on the table near radio console in the bridge and the table in the
captain room. The maximum distance between the last unit in the chain and the
IC-315 is 100 meters.
Navigation Bridge
Hide !!
FELCOM 16
Surface of the table
2m
IC-315 FELCOM 15
Total 100m
IC-307s are connected in daisy chain configuration.
10
4. Setup
4. Setup
4.1 Jumper setting
In the last alert unit IC-307, remove the jumper cap from JP-2 and put it on JP-1.
Factory-default setting,
- JP-1: Open
- JP-2: Short (On jumper cap)
11
4. Setup
3. Type “furunoservice” (without quotation marks) in the “Enter JOB No.” field and
then press the [Enter] key. The prompt PASSWORD appears.
4. Enter password then press the [Enter] key. Then, the item Main Menu is displayed in
reverse video.
- FELCOM 15 password: felcom15
- FELCOM 16 password: felcom16
5. Press [1], [Enter], [1], [Enter]. One of the following windows appears.
[ DMC ]
1. SSAS
2. DMC
3. OFF E: Exit
Enter No.:
FELCOM 15
[ SSAS ]
1. ON
2. OFF E: Exit
Enter No.:
FELCOM 16
12
4. Setup
Important !!
FELCOM 15: If DMC setting is set to “DMC” rather than SSAS, a distress alert
is transmitted when IC-307 alert button is pressed.
IC-307
(SSAS Alert Unit)
IC-305
(DIS. Box)
3. Distress alert start-up.
13
5. Operation
5. Operation
5.1 Operation mode
There are two operating modes; Normal and SSAS manager.
1) In normal mode, SSAS related menus are not displayed. The normal mode every
power-on.
2) In SSAS manager mode, “SSAS Manager Mode” flashes at the top of the screen.
Only authorized personnel (SSO: Ship Security Officer) can enter this mode with a
password. The transmission of SSAS report can be cancelled only in SSAS manager
mode. The unit starts up in the normal mode every power-on.
14
5. Operation
3. The [On the Enter JOB No. ] field, type “ssas password” (without quotation marks)
and then press the [Enter] key. The prompt “OLD PASSWORD” appears.
4. Type your current password and then press the [Enter] key. The prompt NEW
PASSWORD appears.
Note)
- If your password is not set yet, type the default password “ship security alert”.
- If you forgot a current password, type a common password
“wasuremashita+IMN”. See common password below.
5. Enter new password, using at least six characters, and then press the [Enter] key. The
prompt “RETYPE NEW PASSWORD” appears.
Note)
If less than six characters are entered for the password, the message “Please use
a longer password.” appears. Enter a longer password.
6. Enter new password again and then press the [Enter] key. The message “Password
changed” appears.
7. Press the [Esc] key several times to close the menu.
Note)
The SSAS manager mode cannot be unlocked without the proper password.
Common password;
If you forgot a current password, you can available a “common password”.
That is the “wasuremashita+IMN”. The IMN in the password means the IMN which
is set in the [F8] system menu. For example, When the IMN set to “443156789”, it is
“wasuremashita+4431456789”.
15
5. Operation
3. On the “Enter JOB No.” field, type “ssas manager” (without the quotation marks)
and then press the [Enter] key.
4. Type password (see previous page) and then press the [Enter] key. The window below
appears; you are now in the SSAS manager mode.
** Common password: wasuremashita+IMN is available. **
CAUTION
04-04-20 05:37 (UTC)
SSAS Manager Mode enabled.
16
5. Operation
1. Press the [F5] to open the Reports menu. Then press the [4] key to shown the SSAS
Report menu.
SSAS Report
Reports
1. SSAS Report 1
1. Data Report 2. SSAS Report 2
2. Message Report 3. SSAS Report 3
3. Data Network ID 4. SSAS Report 4
4. SSAS Report 5. SSAS Report 5
6. Message Contents
2. Press [1], [2], [3], [4] or [5] key as appropriate. (When the button is tested, a test
report is sent to the address specified for the youngest SSAS report number.
Therefore, set the address which is to receive the test report set for the youngest
SSAS report number.)
Status;
Station name; -Remove: Clear current SSAS Report page.
Available “Station list” SSAS Report -ON: Normally “ON”.
Status ON -TEST: For Sending Test report with this
Station Name current SSAS Report page.
Destination Type TELEX
Prefix Code
Country/Ocean Code
Station ID
Destination;
Modem Type Available “TLX/E-Mail/FAX/DNID/etc”
Address
Subject
LES ID
Report Interval 02:00 (hh: mm)
LES ID;
When Destination is set to E-mail, Report Interval;
E-Mail setup list appears. Enter time, 10min. to 99H59min.
You can select LES for E-Mail. (Factory default: 2H)
17
5. Operation
4. “Yes” is selected; press the [Enter] key to close the SSAS report window.
1. Press the [6] key to display the SSAS Message Contents menu.
2. Enter Vessel name, MMSI, IMO and Other Inf. Position and COURSE/Speed are
automatically set from NAV data.
18
5. Operation
19
6. Functional test
6. Functional test
6.1 Error message
Make sure that message “TROUBLE: SSAS UNIT connection abnormality” error also
not appear. If yes, check the connection of IC-307s and a short jumper on JP-1 in the
last unit. This message is printed out and triggers IC-306 alarm. See page 11.
TROUBLE message.
TROUBLE MSG.
20
6. Functional test
「INF: MSG.」
Note)
1. On FELCOM 15, it is not possible the test of the SSAS and Distress alert unit from
the PC terminal where connected to the [DTE] port.
2. If the button is left with ON position for 30 seconds, the Test Message is sent to the
address in the youngest SSAS report.
3. With FELCOM 15, the DISTRESS button can also be tested. To do so, press
[DISTRESS] button on the IC-305 or the main unit for 4 seconds. The alarm sounds
every half second for 3 seconds, and then the interval becomes longer.
If the system works normally;
1) “Distress Button works correctly” message appears in CAUTION window
when the button on the main unit is pressed.
2) “Distress ALERT unit works correctly” message appears in CAUTION
window when the button on the IC-305 is pressed.
21
6. Functional test
>From: 443199010@satmailc.com
>Date: Thu, 29 Apr 2004 02:13:36 UTC
>Subject: SSAS ALERT REPORT
>To: felcom@devlan1.furuno.co.jp
> Added, !!! Test Call !!!
>
>
> !!!! Test Call !!!!
>--- SSAS ALERT MESSAGE ---
>Vessel Name: furuno test
>MMSI: 431990000
>IMN: 443199010
>this is test ssas message.
>from furuno test
>LAT: 35:00.00N
>LON: 135:00.00E
>Time: 04/29/2004 01:56:15(UTC)
>COURSE: *** deg
>SPEED: ** kt
>Time: MM/DD/YYYY hh:mm:ss(UTC)
22
6. Functional test
4. After 30 seconds, POWER, LOGIN, and TX lamps blink every second. If so, the
button on the No.1 IC-307 works normally. If ERROR lamp blinks every second,
check wirings.
To cancel the Test Message, set the alert button to “OFF” position and turn off the
unit within 30 seconds.
5. After 30 seconds, the Test Message is sent with POWER, LOGIN, and TX lamps
blinking at 0.4 second intervals.
23
6. Functional test
6. After successful Test Message, POWER, LOGIN and TX lamps blink every second.
If the Test Message fails, ERROR lamp blinks every 0.4 second.
After 10 seconds, alert button still ON, ERROR lamp blinks every 2 second.
Note)
When the unit is left with the alert button set to “ON” for 60 minutes, the system
automatically changes to normal mode and no SSAS report is sent. When the alert
button is set to “OFF”, the ERROR lamp goes off.
24
7. Updating program
7. Updating program
SSAS version was the following programs.
FELCOM 15 FELCOM 16
25
7. Updating program
26
7. Updating program
6. Type UPF16.BAT, followed by [Enter]. The PC screen should look like below.
7. Enter the port number. For example, when FELCOM 16 is connected to [COM-1]
port on PC, enter “1”.
27
7. Updating program
28
8. Q&A
8. Q&A
Q5) Does FELCOM 15/16 SSAS carry the wheel mark (the EC conformity mark) ?
No, SSAS is not required to carry the wheel mark.
Q6) Which classification society issues the type approval certificate for FELCOM 15/16
SSAS ?
The following classification societies issue the certificate as of May 2004.
LR DNV GL NK CCS
FELCOM 12 Yes No No No No
FELCOM 15 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
FELCOM 16 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Q7) What happens when the unit is turned on with the alert button ON ?
“Please retune the SSAS button into OFF-SATE” message appears only on
FELCOM 15 when the system is turned on with the alert button inmost
position.
FELCOM 16 transmits the Test Message when the system is turned on with the
alert button inmost position.
Q8) How many operating modes does FELCOM 15/16 SSAS have ?
There are two operating modes: Normal and SSAS manager. The system starts
up in normal mode at every power-on.
29
8. Q&A
Q14) What happen, when press the alert button after the ship moves in the other ocean
region ?
SSAS report is transmitted automatically.
FELCOM 15 SSAS:
When the SSAS alert button is pressed on the system not being
synchronized, automatic channel scan function is activated to acquire
NCS CC signal of the ocean region where the ship locates. However, it
is recommended to change the ocean region in the SSAS report menu
manually when the ship moves into another ocean region.
FELCOM 16 SSAS:
Automatic channel scan function is activated to acquire NCS CC
signal of the ocean region where the ship locates if the system does not
synchronize with the selected channel for 12 minutes.
30
8. Q&A
Q15) What happens when the SSAS alert button is pressed in Logout mode ?
FELCOM 15:
The system logs in 30 seconds later and transmits the report.
FELCOM 16:
The system is always in login mode because it automatically logs in
about 1 minute after power-on.
Q16) Why SSAS alert units are connected in daisy chain configuration ?
SSAS alert units in daisy chain are checked easily for discontinuity.
The jumper JP-1 in the last unit must be “Closed.”
DMC OUT H
+5V à
+5V Detect ß DMC IN H
Q18) Why existing Inmarsat-C does not synchronize with the NCS Common
Channel after installing FELCOM 16 SSAS system additionally ? (Both units are
set to use the same NCS CC.)
First local oscillator signal, F0 (NCS CC) – 1.8 kHz interferes with another
system. Separate the communication unit from the antenna unit. See page 9.
31
8. Q&A
Q20) Neither audible nor visible alarm is generated when the SSAS alert button is
pressed. How can we recognize SSAS transmission ?
FELCOM 15 SSAS:
When the SSAS alert button is pressed, a period appears at the far left
on the second row. Current status remains “idling.”
FELCOM 16 SSAS
No change is made when the SSAS alert button is pressed.
Q21) The alert cannot be cancelled with the alert button depressed what should I do.
Manager mode;
Get into SSAS manager mode and tern off select buttons. When the report
stops transmitting, “INF: SSAS UNIT activation has been canceled.”
Message appears.
Normal mode;
You may cancel repeated transmission by pushing the button
OFF→ON→OFF→ON→OFF within 3 seconds.
32
8. Q&A
Q22) Can we send SSAS Test Message using Inmarsat loopback test facility ?
Yes, follow the steps below to do so.
1. Set SSAS report menu as below.
- Destination Type : SPEC
- Country/Ocean Code : 91
- LES : KDDI for example
2. Save the changed data (Press [Esc] and then select Yes followed by
[Enter]).
3. Open the SSAS report menu again and change Status to “TEST”.
4. Press [Esc], select Yes and then, press [Enter]. The system sends the Test
Message once and return to the normal mode.
5. Make sure that the system receives the transmitted message.
33
8. Q&A
34
8. Q&A
35
8. Q&A
FELOCM 15 SSAS:
When the ship moves into another ocean region, the system loses
synchronization with NCS CC. Select an appropriate ocean region
manually (F7-4).
When the SSAS alert button is pressed with the system unsynchronized
with NCS CC signal, the system scans NCS CC signals for acquisition.
The LES used in the previous ocean region is selected. If no such LES
exists, the system uses the LES on top row in the LES Information list
(F7-6).
36
Checklist for survey of Ship Security Alert System
Ref. No.
Date
M/V Class No
Type of Ship IMO No.
Office: Port:
Company of ship Maritime Security Auditor:
_________________________ __________________________
Radio inspector Maritime Security auditor to
Company Nippon Kaiji Kyokai
1
The administration may instruct a unique code/identifier other than ship’s identity in the brackets.
Form MS-CHK-SSAS (2004.3.1)
National contact points by SSAS.
IMMARBE
Marina Towers 204
Newtown Barracks Road
Belize City, Belize C.A.
2 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its seventy-seventh session (28 May to 6 June 2003),
agreed to the proposed guidance regarding Ship Security Alert Systems, as set out in the annex.
3 Member Governments are requested to bring the annexed guidance to the attention of
Maritime Administrations, shipmasters, port authorities, port facility security operators, national
authorities responsible for security, shipping companies, system manufacturers and designers.
***
I:\CIRC\MSC\1072.DOC
MSC/Circ.1072
ANNEX
1 Regulation 6 of SOLAS chapter XI-2 requires ships to be provided with a ship security alert
system. Section A/9 of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code requires ships
to carry a ship security plan. Performance standards for ship security alert systems are given in
resolution MSC.147(77). This Circular gives guidance on the design of ship security alert systems
provided to comply with the SOLAS regulation.
2 The intent of the ship security alert system is to send a covert signal or message from a ship
which will not be obvious to anyone on the ship who is not aware of the alert mechanism. It is of use
therefore in circumstances where a ship wishes to inform a person ashore of a problem with a
minimum number of the persons onboard aware of the action. The procedures for the security alert
are agreed with the ship’s Administration as part of the ship security plan and ideally should be
individual to the ship. It is not intended that the ship security alert procedures should be to an
internationally agreed standard or conform to any particular format for all ships.
.3 a system may utilise the exchange of messages containing key words between a ship
and, typically, the Company. These messages may be by speech or data
communications. Ship equipment which may be used includes cellular phones in
coastal areas and satellite services away from coastal areas. It may be possible to use
GMDSS VHF/MF/HF equipment in areas where there are coastal facilities for
receiving addressed calls.
This list is not intended as exhaustive and is not intended to inhibit future developments.
*
Inmarsat is developing modifications to existing equipment that will allow for this service to be implemented.
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MSC/Circ.1072
ANNEX
Page 2
4 The ship security alert system requires two activation points, one of which should be on the
bridge. These will typically be fixed or portable telephone handsets, fixed or portable keypads or
fixed or portable buttons.
5 Measures should be incorporated in the activation points to avoid their inadvertent operation
and the generation of false alerts.
__________________
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INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION
E
IMO
MSC/Circ.1073
10 June 2003
T2-NAVSEC/11
1 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its seventy-second session (17 to 26 May 2000),
approved Directives for Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres (MRCCs), (MSC/Circ.967)
which, in most incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, are the first point of contact
between the ship and coastal authorities concerned, following the Master's decision to request
assistance.
2 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its seventy-seventh session (28 May to 6 June 2003),
modified the text of the exiting Directives to include provisions for the handling by MRCCs of
alerts received from ships in response to terrorist acts and other security incidents.
***
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MSC/Circ. 1073 -2-
ANNEX
1 Definitions
“Act of violence”: For the purposes of this circular, the phrases “act of violence”
and “acts of violence against ships” encompass acts of piracy, acts of armed
robbery against ships and any other security incident directed against a ship which
does not fall into one of the preceding categories. For the purposes of this
circular, the “ship” includes all persons on board.
“Piracy” The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
(article 101) defines piracy as follows:
“Security Forces Authority”: For the purposes of this circular, and in accordance with the
organization of and the decisions by the national Governments, the SFA (Security Forces
Authority) is generally a national or regional command of a public agency such as the Navy,
Coast Guard or Police in charge of providing the response to security incidents.
“Security incident”. SOLAS 1974, as amended, chapter XI-2 defines a security incident as “any
suspicious act or circumstance threatening the security of a ship, including a mobile offshore
drilling unit and a high speed craft, or of a port facility or of any ship/port interface or any ship to
ship activity”.
“Overt Security Alert”: For the purposes of this circular, an overt security alert uses a
communication channel or method which makes no attempt to deny knowledge of its activation
and use, for example VHF broadcast.
“Covert Security Alert”: For the purposes of this circular, a covert security alert uses a
communication channel or method designed to deny knowledge of its activation to perpetrators
of the acts of violence, for example a ship security alert system as detailed in the ISPS Code.
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2 General
2.1 While all Governments may grant their maritime rescue co-ordination centre(s)
(MRCCs)1, in addition to those of search and rescue (SAR), powers in the application of national
regulations and instructions, the response to acts of violence against ships is the only one of these
extensions that forms part of the IMO regulations2. In this way, MRCCs are incorporated in the
organization that Governments have to set up to deal with acts of violence against ships, which
may occur suddenly and anywhere.
2.2 For these reasons, this circular has been drawn up especially for the MRCCs2, taking into
consideration their own situations and normal activities. It should be considered in connection
with guidance on maritime security given in chapter XI-2 of the SOLAS Convention, and the
International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code, and guidance on piracy and armed robbery
against ships given in MSC/Circ.622/Rev.1 for Governments, and MSC Circ.623/Rev.1 aimed at
shipping companies, masters and crews.
2.3 MRCCs can expect to receive a ship security alert of an act of violence against a ship in a
number of ways. This ship security alert can come directly from the ship or via an alternative
source. These alternative sources include, but are not limited to, other ships, an adjacent MRCC,
the national SFA, ship operators and flag State administrations.
2.4 The immediate MRCC response to an alert should be determined by whether the alert
received by the MRCC is determined to be an overt alert or a covert alert. Determining whether
the alert is overt or covert is a critical factor as the response for each is extremely different as
shown below:
.1 Overt Security Alert: For an overt alert communication with the ship or other
ships in the vicinity of the ship under threat or attack need not be delayed or
disguised, for example a Master of a ship may use an overt alarm to discourage an
attack;
.2 Covert Security Alert: For a covert alert no attempt is to be made to contact the
ship originating the alert and no communications are to be made with other ships
in the vicinity of the ship under threat. A Master of a ship may use a covert alarm
to deny those posing the threat or making an attack the knowledge that an alert has
been made; and
Detailed guidance for these three situations is provided in the operating instructions below.
1
Certain missions, which MRCCs have to carry out, in addition to search and rescue, are however set out in
chapter 7 of the IAMSAR Manual, volume II
2
All the aspects laid down for the MRCC in this circular should be taken as valid for the joint rescue co-ordination
centres (JRCC) and, if the national authority so decides, for the maritime rescue sub-centres (MRSC) and joint
rescue sub-centres.
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2.5 Bilateral agreements between States may be reached for the application of co-operation
procedures that might differ from those set out above.
3 Preparatory measures
It is essential that MRCCs are in all respects prepared for situations involving acts of
violence against ships. Preparatory measures taken by each MRCC must include actions
to:
.2 establish fast and effective methods of communication for use between the MRCC
and the SFA in question. These methods of communication should be tested on a
regular basis;
.3 If appropriate and feasible, repeat points 3.1 and 3.2 above for each State whose
coastal waters are included in the search and rescue region (SRR) of the MRCC;
.4 ensure the MRCC has clear written procedures and instructions on the actions to
be taken by operations personnel when dealing with an act of violence against a
ship;
.1 the risks of an act of violence against a ship in the SRR covered by the
MRCC in particular and the phenomenon of acts of violence against ships
in general;
.4 the reports to be sent in the event of an alert and all other actions to be
taken.
4 Operating measures
4.1 Action to be taken by MRCCs upon receipt of all types of security alerts:
.1 If the position of the incident is within the SRR of the MRCC, the MRCC should
immediately inform the appropriate SFA, using the method of communications set
out in 3.2. In addition, if the position is close to the boundaries of the SRR, the
MRCC should also inform the appropriate neighbouring MRCC; and
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.2 If the position of the incident is outside the SRR of the MRCC, the MRCC should
relay the alert to the appropriate MRCC using the normal methods of
communication among MRCCs for search and rescue operations or other pre-
determined discreet inter-MRCC communication channels as appropriate.
In the event of receiving an overt security alert, in addition to the actions detailed in
paragraph 4.1 above MRCCs should:
.1 maintain contact with the SFA and other parties as detailed in 4.1above;
.2 contact the ship to determine if the security alert is real or false and to ascertain
the nature of the current situation;
.3 if no response is received, assume that the act of violence is ongoing and advise
the SFA accordingly;
.4 determine the most effective way of issuing a security alert warning for the other
ships in the vicinity using appropriate systems and procedures2 and
In the event of receiving a covert security alert, in addition to the actions detailed in
paragraph 4.1 above, MRCCs should:
.1 maintain contact with the SFA and other parties as detailed in 4.1 above;
Unspecified alerts should be treated as covert in accordance with paragraph 4.3 above.
5 Additional Actions
5.1 The MRCC should endeavour to keep the ship’s Administration informed of the acts of
violence committed against this ship and of their consequences.
2 e.g Refer to format and drafting guidance in COMSAR/Circ.15 – Joint IMO/IHO/WMO Manual on Maritime Safety Information (MSI)
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5.2 If laid down in the national regulations and instructions, the MRCC may also have to
report directly:
.2.1 to the national authority or authorities empowered to deal with the phenomena
concerned, if this authority or these authorities are different from the SFA referred
to above; and
.2.2 to the person or body entrusted with the inquiries into the acts of violence within
the meaning of this circular.
5.3 The MRCC may be required to supply additional information to the Administration, if the
Administration has an obligation to send a report of events to the Organization.
__________________
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MSC 77/26/Add.1
ANNEX 7
RESOLUTION MSC.147(77)
(adopted on 29 May 2003)
RECALLING ALSO resolution A.886(21), by which the Assembly resolved that the
functions of adopting performance standards for radio and navigational equipment, as well as
amendments thereto, shall be performed by the Maritime Safety Committee on behalf of the
Organization,
RECALLING FURTHER the provisions of the new chapter XI-2 of the International
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended, and the requirements of
regulation XI-2/5, that all ships shall be provided with a ship security alert system,
RECOGNIZING that, for security reasons, a ship security alert system is necessary on
board for initiating and transmitting a ship-to-shore security alert to a competent authority
designated by the Administration,
(a) if installed on or after 1 July 2004, conforms to performance standards not inferior
to those specified in the Annex to the present resolution;
(b) if installed before 1 July 2004, conforms to performance standards not inferior to
those specified in the Annex to resolution MSC.136(76).
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ANNEX 7
Page 2
ANNEX
1 Introduction
1.1 The ship security alert system is provided to a ship for the purpose of transmitting a
security alert to the shore to indicate to a competent authority that the security of the ship is under
threat or has been compromised. It comprises a minimum of two activation points, one of which
is on the navigation bridge. These initiate the transmission of a ship security alert. The system is
intended to allow a covert activation to be made which alerts the competent authority ashore and
does not raise an alarm on board ship nor alert other ships.
1.2 As required by its Administration, the competent authority receiving the alert notifies the
authority responsible for maritime security within its Administration, the coastal State(s) in
whose vicinity the ship is presently operating, or other Contracting Governments.
1.3 The procedures for the use of the ship security alert system and the location of the
activation points are given in the ship security plan agreed by the Administration.
1.4 The ship security alert system may utilise the radio installation provided for compliance
with chapter IV of the SOLAS Convention, other radio systems provided for general
communications or dedicated radio systems.
2 General
2.1 In addition to complying with the general requirements set out in resolution A.694(17)1,
the ship security alert system should comply with the following performance standards.
2.2 The radio system used for the ship security alert systems should comply with relevant
international standards.
3 Power supply
3.1 Where the ship security alert system is powered from the ship’s main source of electrical
power, it should, in addition, be possible to operate the system from an alternative source of
power.
4 Activation points
4.1 Activation points should be capable of being used on the navigation bridge and in other
locations. They should be protected against inadvertent operation. It should not be necessary for
the user to remove seals or to break any lid or cover in order to operate any control.
1
Publication IEC60945.
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5 Operation
5.1 The activation points should operate a radio system such that transmission of the security
alert does not require any adjustment of the radio system, i.e. tuning of channels, setting of
modes or menu options. Operation of the activation point should not cause any alarm or
indication to be raised on the ship.
5.2 The operation of the ship security alert system should not impair the functionality of the
GMDSS installation.
6.1 In all cases, transmission initiated by security alert system activation points should
include a unique code/identifier indicating that the alert has not been generated in accordance
with GMDSS distress procedures. The transmission should include the ship identity and current
position associated with a date and time. The transmission should be addressed to a shore station
and should not be addressed to ship stations.
6.2 The ship security alert system, when activated, should continue the ship security alert
until deactivated and/or reset.
7 Testing
7.1 The ship security alert system should be capable of being tested.
***
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