Offshore Comms Info
GMDSS & VHF
Existing holders of the VHF Operator's Certificate are still legal to operate VHF voice-only (non-DSC) equipment, but must complete an upgrade course (candidates normally attend the full 1-day SRC course which serves as a refresher) before they fit or operate GMDSS equipment. The SRC is also a prerequisite for the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Practical Exam.
The course covers:
- Marine VHF Requirements & Regulations
- International Marine VHF Channels & Channel selection
- GMDSS requirements and regulations, system overview and DSC functions and use.
- Distress/Urgency and Routine VHF Procedures
- NAVTEX, EPIRBS & SARTS
- Functions on a VHF Radio Set
- Use of Pro Words
- Practical assessment of competence and a short written exam
The VHF Marine Radio has evolved in recent times, coming into the 21st Century with new features making it easier to use. Previously there was only one channel (Channel 16) used for calling other boats or for distress calls. Due to increased boat traffic a new system was needed: GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) became fully operational in 1999. This latest development in marine communications has added a new feature to the VHF radio with the introduction of Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This digital system is similar to mobile phone technology, enabling the user to select whoever you wish to call in one simple step. In emergency situations just one button can be utilised to contact the coastguard. In conjunction with a GPS unit your position at sea will also be transmitted within seconds, enhancing the assistance the emergency services can provide.
Course Prerequisites
Essential: Good working knowledge of the Phonetic alphabet (we will not have time to teach it during the day).
Phonetic alphabet
A Alfa | G Golf | M Mike | T Tango |
B Bravo | H Hotel | N November | U Uniform |
C Charlie | I India | O Oscar | V Victor |
D Delta | J Juliet | P Papa | W Whisky |
E Echo | K Kilo | Q Quebec | X X-ray |
F Foxtrot | L Lima | R Romeo | Y Yan-Kee |
S Sierra | Z Zulu |
Numbers
1 Wun | 2 Too | 3 Tree | 4 Fow-er | 5 Fif-er |
6 Six | 7 Sev-en | 8 Ait | 9 Niner | 0 Zero |
Desirable: Background reading – the RYA VHF Radio Publications G22 (VHF Radio) and G26 (VHF Radio SRC Assessments).
Links for further information:
GMDSS overview - http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/gmdss.pdf
Radio Communications Agency website - www.ofcom.org.uk