IMO STCW 2010 Regulations - Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of GMDSS Radio Operators
The GMDSS systems are designed to perform the functions such as alerting, search and rescue coordination, locating (homing), Maritime Safety information broadcasts, general communications, and bridge-to-bridge communications.
The GMDSS system also provides for urgency and safety communications and the promulgation of Navigational and meteorological warnings and forecasts and other urgent safety information to ships. In other words, every ship is able, irrespective of the GMDSS Sea Area in which it operates, to perform those communication functions which are essential for the safety of the ship itself and of other ships operating in the same area
Every person in charge of/or performing radio duties on a ship that is required to participate in the GMDSS is required to hold an appropriate certificate related to the GMDSS, which satisfies the provisions of the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union.
The GMDSS operator performs the function of operating the GMDSS system, transmitting information across two levels, determining and locating vessel's position and providing safety and Security assistance to on-board vessels.
STCW Code Section A-IV/2 Chapter IV (STCW 2010 Res 2)
Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of GMDSS Radio Operators
Standard of Competence
- The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification of GMDSS radio operators shall be sufficient for radio operators to carry out their radio duties. The knowledge required for obtaining each type of certificate defined in the Radio Regulations shall be in accordance with those regulations. In addition, every candidate for certification of competency shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2.
- The knowledge, understanding and proficiency for endorsement under the Convention of certificates issued under the provisions of the Radio Regulations are listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2.
- The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2 shall be sufficient for the candidate to carry out his duties*.
- Every candidate shall provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence through:
- demonstration of competence to perform the tasks and duties and to assume responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of that table; and
- examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved course of training based on the material set out in column 2 of table A-IV/2.
*The relevant IMO Model Course(s) may be of assistance in the preparation of courses
STCW Table A-IV/2 of Chapter IV (STCW 2010 Res 2)
Specification of minimum standard of competence for GMDSS radio operators
STCW Section B-IV/2 of Chapter IV (STCW 2010 Res 2)
Guidance regarding training and certification of GMDSS radio operators
MUST READ:
- STCW Guide for Seafarers (Requirements & Certifications)
- What is STCW? - An Introduction
- STCW Requirements for GMDSS Radio Operators
STCW Regulation IV/2 of Chapter IV (STCW 2010 Res 1)
Mandatory Minimum Requirements for Certification of GMDSS Radio Operators
- Every person in charge of or performing radio duties on a ship required to participate in the GMDSS shall hold an appropriate certificate related to the GMDSS, issued or recognized by the Administration under the provisions of the Radio Regulations.
- In addition, every candidate for certification of competency under this regulation for service on a ship, which is required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, to have a radio installation, shall:
- be not less than 18 years of age; and .
- have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-IV/2 of the STCW Code.
Disclaimer: For general information purpose only - please check with IMO STCW Convention for the latest requirements and accurate info
LAST UPDATED ON Aug 11, 2021