IMO MSC 105 adopted amendments SOLAS chapter II-1, III, IV and V, the appendix (Certificates) and the 1988 SOLAS Protocol (Certificates); through resolution MSC.496(105). The amendments aims to allow the use of modern communication systems in the GMDSS.
The amendments pertaining to the Modernization of GMDSS enter into force on 1 January 2024.
Following are the highlights regarding the amendments to SOLAS Chapter IV (Radiocommunications):
Q. What factors should ship owners and operators consider when choosing a Recognized Mobile Satellite Service Ship Earth Station (RMSS-SES), like Inmarsat or Iridium, for installation on their vessels?
A. Ship owners/operators can select RMSS-SES based on coverage areas. Each RMSS system provides different communication coverage. The selected RMSS-SES should be able to receive EGC (enhanced group call) broadcasting in the intended operational area, and consideration should be given to MSI (Maritime Safety Information) and SAR (Maritime Search and Rescue) information obtained by other onboard equipment. However, the installation of RMSS-SES (i.e. IRIDIUM in lieu of INMARSAT) is subject to flag’s policy and acceptance.
Q. With the upcoming changes, will vessels still need a NAVTEX receiver, or will having an MSI receiver (Inmarsat/Iridium) be enough to meet the requirements?
A. According the MSC.1/Circ.1645, para.4, ships should be provided with equipment appropriate for the entire voyage in which the ship is engaged, as follows:
“.1 a receiver capable of receiving international NAVTEX service broadcasts if the ship is engaged on voyages in any area in which an international NAVTEX service is provided; and
.2 if the ship is engaged in voyages in which an international NAVTEX service is not provided:
.1 a receiver capable of receiving HF NBDP service when a ship is engaged in voyages where such service is provided;
.2 receiver(s) capable of receiving broadcasts from an international EGC service identified (SafetyNet or International Iridium SafetyCast service) which provide(s) a service for the operating areas.“
So, depending on the operating areas and or/not if international NAVTEX service is provided.
Q. What is the scheduled date for the reissuance of SOLAS certificates for ships currently in service?
A. Unless ships are subject to modifications ( for e.g. VHF-EPIRB, NBDP in sea area A3), IMO confirmed (ref. MSC 105/20 para. 3.12) that in accordance with the provisions in paragraph 3.1 of the Guidance provided in MSC-MEPC.5/Circ.6, re-issuance of the relevant certificates and their supplements, if any, after entry into force of the amendments, would not be necessary until their expiry(unless otherwise instructed by the ship’s Flag State).
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