AMSA Marine Notice 02/2023 - Automatic channel switching feature (VHF DSC radios)
AMSA has issued Marine Notice 02/2023 which highlights the automatic channel switching capability of VHF DSC radios, raising awareness of the function to disable this feature and also the visible indication of its status.
The notice further recommends that Ships’ bridge procedures should include instructions on how and when to disable and re-enable, automatic channel switching during safety critical operations and to seek advice from the supplier or service agent if the user manual or other documentation is not clear in regard this function and indication. The Club would also recommend to incorporate these procedures in their SMS.
Members are encouraged to bring this AMSA Marine notice to the attention of their masters and ships staff, updating their bridge procedures as necessary.
For further information please contact the Loss Prevention Department. Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd. Tel: +44 20 7247 5490