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Restricted GMDSS Operator

Training format
Course approved
Maritime Administration of Ukraine
American Bureau of Shipping Academy
Republic of Panama
Republic of Liberia
Republic of the Marshall Islands
For whom
The course is designed for captains, mates, cadets of maritime educational institutions, as well as officers of passenger vessels operating in coastal waters. It is also useful for individuals involved in the maintenance of radio equipment on small vessels and pleasure yachts operating exclusively in A-1 zones.
Teaching language
English
Russian
Ukrainian
Duration
Seat restriction

The course "Restricted GMDSS Operator" focuses on an in-depth study of the specifics of working with communication systems and ensuring safety at sea. This course is also known as "Restricted Operator’s Certificate for GMDSS", and "GMDSS Restricted Operator Certificate" and is designed to prepare specialists for the safe and efficient use of communication facilities in various maritime zones.

The main objectives of the course include providing knowledge about the principles of the GMDSS system, training in basic operations using it, including the setup and operation of equipment, as well as practical application in real conditions. The course covers international and national standards for the use of communication systems for transmitting and receiving distress signals, interaction with emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) and search and rescue transponders (SARTs), as well as preparation for managing emergency situations, including the coordination of rescue operations.

This course provides comprehensive training for maritime professionals, necessary for the safe and efficient use of GMDSS communication systems, in accordance with international standards and STCW requirements. Participants will gain practical skills in working with various communication facilities, including simulating real situations on the Transas TGS 5000 GMDSS simulator, which will ensure a deep understanding and confident use of the equipment.

STCW Standards: Convention, section IV/2, points 37-44, Code, section A-IV/2, points 37-44, Code, section B-IV/2, points 37-44.

On the course you will learn to

Introduction to the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

This part of the course introduces the basic concepts and principles of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). The introduction provides a general overview of the system, its goals, areas of application, and significance for ensuring safety at sea. The areas of operation of GMDSS and their specifics are discussed.

  1. Overview of GMDSS:
    • Definition and main functions of GMDSS.
  2. Goals and objectives:
    • Main goals of GMDSS: ensuring maritime safety and providing assistance in emergencies.
    • Specific tasks of the system in various maritime zones.

GMDSS Communication Means and Systems

This topic covers the different types of communication means and systems used in GMDSS. The main functions and features of each device, their role in ensuring maritime safety, and their use in various maritime zones are discussed.

  1. VHF Radio Installations:
    • Description and application of VHF radio communication.
    • Setting up and operating the equipment.
  2. Digital Selective Calling (DSC):
    • Functions and benefits of DSC.
    • Procedures for using DSC to send and receive distress signals.
  3. NAVTEX Receivers:
    • Description of the NAVTEX system and its importance for receiving maritime warnings.
    • Setting up and operating NAVTEX receivers.
  4. Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs):
    • Principles of operation and use of EPIRBs.
    • Procedures for activating and testing EPIRBs.
  5. Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs):
    • Functions and application of SARTs in rescue operations.
    • Setting up and operating SARTs.
  6. Inmarsat Systems:
    • Description and application of Inmarsat satellite communication systems.
    • Setting up and operating Inmarsat equipment.
  7. MF/HF Radio Installations:
    • Features and application of MF/HF radio communication.
    • Setting up and operating MF/HF equipment.
  8. Radiotelex (NBDP):
    • Principles of operation and use of radiotelex for data transmission.
    • Setting up and operating NBDP equipment.

GMDSS Operational Procedures and Regulations

This topic covers the operational procedures and regulations concerning the use of GMDSS. The main regulations and communication procedures, methods of managing communication in distress situations, emergencies, and ensuring safety, as well as everyday communication procedures are discussed.

  1. GMDSS Regulations and Procedures:
    • Overview of the main international and national regulations governing the use of GMDSS.
    • Importance of complying with regulations to ensure maritime safety.
  2. Radio Communication Procedures:
    • Standardized procedures for different types of communication (distress, urgency, safety).
    • Examples of using procedures in real situations.
  3. Communication in Distress Situations:
    • Procedures for sending and receiving distress signals.
    • Methods for coordinating rescue operations.
  4. Urgent and Safety Communication:
    • Description and procedures for urgent and safety messages.
    • Examples of using urgent and safety communication.
  5. Maritime Safety Information (MSI):
    • Definition and importance of MSI.
    • Procedures for receiving and disseminating maritime safety information.
  6. Everyday Communication:
    • Procedures for routine communication between vessels and shore services.
    • Examples of routine communication and its importance for daily operations.

Practical Operation of GMDSS Equipment

This topic covers the practical aspects of using GMDSS equipment. The procedures for operating and setting up various systems and devices used for ensuring safety and communication at sea are discussed.

  1. Operation of DSC on VHF, MF/HF:
    • Procedures for setting up and using DSC on different frequencies.
    • Practical examples of sending and receiving distress signals.
  2. Conducting and Receiving Distress Signals:
    • Procedures for sending distress signals using various GMDSS systems.
    • Examples of successful rescue operations.
  3. Using EPIRBs and SARTs:
    • Procedures for activating and using EPIRBs and SARTs.
    • Practical exercises on operating and testing the equipment.
  4. Operations with NAVTEX:
    • Setting up and operating NAVTEX receivers for receiving maritime safety information.
    • Procedures for testing and troubleshooting.
  5. Operations with Inmarsat:
    • Using Inmarsat systems for maritime communication.
    • Procedures for sending and receiving messages using Inmarsat.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting of GMDSS Equipment

This topic covers the maintenance procedures and basic troubleshooting methods for GMDSS equipment. Routine maintenance, basic diagnostic techniques, and equipment checks are discussed.

  1. Routine Maintenance of GMDSS Equipment:
    • Procedures for regular inspection and maintenance.
    • Importance of keeping equipment in working condition.
  2. Basic Troubleshooting Methods:
    • Overview of common problems encountered in GMDSS equipment operation.
    • Basic diagnostic and troubleshooting methods.
  3. Equipment Testing and Checking:
    • Procedures for regular testing and checking the operability of equipment.
    • Importance of documenting test results.
  4. Documentation and Reporting:
    • Maintaining documentation for maintenance and testing.
    • Reporting requirements and compliance with standards.

Practical Exercises

This part of the course includes various practical exercises aimed at developing skills and using GMDSS equipment. The main tasks and methods for their implementation are considered, so that course participants can confidently apply their knowledge in practice.

  1. Operation of VHF Radio Station:
    • Initiating and responding to distress signals.
    • Procedures for everyday communication.
  2. DSC Equipment:
    • Sending and receiving distress signals using DSC.
    • Setting up equipment for routine communication.
  3. Using EPIRBs and SARTs:
    • Activating and using EPIRBs and SARTs in emergency situations.
    • Maintenance and testing procedures.
  4. NAVTEX Receivers:
    • Receiving and interpreting maritime safety information.
    • Setting up equipment and troubleshooting.
  5. Inmarsat Systems:
    • Establishing communication using Inmarsat C.
    • Sending and receiving messages via satellite system.

Issuing certificates

Certificate of qualified specialist.

Level of instructor-teachers

The course instructors are highly qualified, meeting the international requirements of the STCW Code. They have higher maritime education and extensive experience working on maritime vessels. The instructors have completed specialized courses in advanced training in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Their extensive experience working on maritime vessels and in training centers ensures high-quality teaching and deep practical training for course participants.

Compliance with international conventions

This course complies with the international standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is regulated by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW):

  • Convention, section IV/2, points 37-44.
  • Code, section A-IV/2, points 37-44.
  • Code, section B-IV/2, points 37-44.

Explanation of STCW Standards (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) — The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, developed by IMO, to ensure maritime safety and prevent marine pollution.

  • Convention, section IV/2: Includes regulations related to the training and certification of personnel working with radar equipment and satellite communication systems on maritime vessels. Points 37-44 describe competency and qualification requirements for the safe operation of radar equipment and satellite communication systems.
  • Code, section A-IV/2: Contains mandatory minimum competency requirements for personnel working with radar equipment and satellite communication systems. Points 37-44 outline the main requirements for training and competency.
  • Code, section B-IV/2: Includes recommended procedures and guidelines for fulfilling the mandatory requirements specified in section A-IV/2. Points 37-44 provide additional information and methodological guidelines to ensure compliance with mandatory requirements.

The standards are aimed at ensuring proper training and certification of personnel working with radar equipment and satellite communication systems, as well as establishing safety measures and procedures necessary for the safe operation of these systems.

Material and technical support of the course

The course is conducted in classrooms equipped with teaching aids and demonstration materials. Participants have access to the Transas TGS 5000 GMDSS simulator, which is used for practical training. Using the simulator, course participants practice working with various GMDSS communication systems and devices, including sending and receiving distress signals, using EPIRBs, working with VHF radio communication, and Inmarsat systems. The simulator allows for the modeling of real situations, ensuring a deep understanding and confident use of the equipment in conditions as close to real as possible.

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