1 There has been concern that many GMDSS operators
on board ships have a lack of familiarization regarding operational
performance during Distress, Urgency and Safety communications, as
well as with simple technical elements, which is vital for the safety
of life at sea.
2 Taking into account the above concerns, it is
recommended that:
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.1 the ship's safety management system should
provide for all personnel who may be required to operate the GMDSS
equipment to receive familiarization and ship-specific training, on
joining the ship, and at appropriate intervals thereafter;
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.2 familiarization, drills and onboard training
of the GMDSS equipment should allow GMDSS operators to demonstrate
their familiarization at any time;
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.3 such familiarization should be verified during
flag State inspections or port State control; and
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.4 if such verification turns out to be negative,
the Company should take appropriate measures according to the flag
State Administration requirements.