Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

June 1999

Members are reminded that with effect from 1^st February 1999, SOLAS Convention vessels of 300 gross tons and above must be converted to the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Chapter IV of SOLAS was amended in 1988 to incorporate the GMDSS provisions which specify the exact nature of the communications equipment which a vessel is required to carry according to its area of operation. Details were given in "Sea Venture" Vol. 15, page 6. These provisions came into force on 1^st February 1992, and were introduced in two phases. Passenger carrying vessels on international voyages, and cargo vessels over 300 gross tons built prior to 1^st February 1995, had the option of complying with either the provisions of SOLAS 1974 prior to the 1988 amendment, or the new GMDSS requirements. Vessels built since 1^st February 1995 are already obliged to comply with the GMDSS requirements. Now, with effect from 1^st February 1999, the GMDSS requirements will apply to the earlier vessels as well.

Whereas the original system of distress communication relied heavily upon the response of other vessels in the vicinity of another in distress, GMDSS defines the role of shore stations in distress communications. Morse code has not been used in the international search and rescue system since the 1^st February deadline, but watch-keeping on VHF Channel 16 will continue for the time being.

IMO Member Governments are responsible for interpreting the GMDSS rules and for adapting them for vessels flying their flag, with the result that the requirements for some vessels may be more stringent than the original SOLAS provisions. Port State Control authorities have begun to monitor and enforce GMDSS requirements since 1^st February 1999. Members should be aware that vessels subject to the ISM Code which have not met this deadline will put their ISM Safety Management Certificate at risk.

Members should contact the Managers’ London Representative if any further information on this subject is required.