🔍 Key Concepts

• GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) maintenance and testing requirements under SOLAS Chapter IV • Difference between routine tests and proving that equipment is operational • When normal operational use can count as proof of proper functioning

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: does the regulation require a specific test schedule, or does it allow normal use of the radio/terminal to count as proof that it works? • Which GMDSS items are actually used in normal daily operations, and which typically need a deliberate test? • Think about what would be practical on a busy sea-going vessel: is a strict fixed testing interval realistic for all GMDSS gear, or is there some flexibility?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify what SOLAS Ch. IV says about testing vs operational performance of GMDSS equipment • Check whether there is a requirement for daily testing of all equipment, or if that applies only to certain specific items (e.g., DSC, NAVTEX, etc.) • Confirm if the regulation explicitly allows normal operational use to serve as proof of equipment being operational