🔍 Key Concepts

• GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) basic responsibilities of the certified radio operator • How DSC guard channels are selected and monitored on VHF, MF, and HF equipment • Requirements for updating the ship’s position in GMDSS equipment (think about time interval and why it matters)

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Does the radio operator still have responsibility for selecting any guard channels, or is everything fully automatic on all bands? Consider VHF, MF, and HF separately. • Think about why the GMDSS console needs an updated GPS position. In an emergency, how current must that position be to be useful? Would 4 hours be considered too long, too short, or reasonable? • Consider who approves different types of GMDSS equipment. Is Inmarsat the approval body for all equipment, or is its role more limited to certain satellite systems?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify what the GMDSS Radio Operator’s duties are with respect to selecting/setting DSC watch channels on VHF, MF, and HF (are any bands automatic-only?). • Check the official requirement for how often the vessel’s position must be updated in GMDSS/DSC equipment; focus on the specific time interval given in the rules or manuals. • Confirm whether all GMDSS equipment must be type accepted by Inmarsat, or whether acceptance/approval depends on the service (satellite vs. non-satellite) and relevant authorities.