GMDSS – SRT radio survey: how the ship administration should prepare

Preparing for the annual safety radio survey is crucial for ship administrations to ensure compliance with SOLAS regulations. These surveys are mandatory for all SOLAS ships, including passenger ships and vessels over 300 gross tonnage engaged in international voyages.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how ship administrations can effectively prepare for the safety radio survey:

1. Document Verification:
   • Ensure all necessary certificates and documents are onboard and valid. These include certificates of competence for radio operators, Ship Safety Radio Certificate (for cargo ships) or Ship Safety Certificate (for passenger ships), shore-based maintenance agreements, and updated ITU publications.
2. Equipment Compliance:
   • Check that the GMDSS equipment onboard corresponds to the certified sea areas of operation. This includes essential equipment such as VHF radio installations, SARTs, NAVTEX receivers, EPIRBs, and portable VHF radios for survival craft.
3. Equipment Preparation:
   • Ensure all GMDSS equipment is easily accessible and properly labeled with essential information such as ship’s call sign, serial numbers, and battery expiry dates. Anticipate testing of equipment located on the navigation bridge.
4. Premises Organization:
   • Maintain organized premises where GMDSS equipment is located, including instructional diagrams and vessel identification plates. Display operating guidance for distress situations as per IMO guidelines.
5. Equipment Inspection:
   • Prepare for inspection by checking the position and mounting of units, power boards, chargers, and batteries. Ensure proper installation of antennas to optimize radio communication range.
6. Infrastructure Assessment:
   • Examine the condition of the cable network, grounding systems, ventilation, and lighting to ensure optimal performance. Inform the surveyor of any changes or repairs to radio equipment since the previous survey.

Upon satisfactory completion of the safety radio survey, the inspector issues a comprehensive report detailing the results of various tests, including those for EPIRBs, portable VHF devices, radar transponders, AIS, and GMDSS radio battery capacity. This report is then forwarded to the relevant authorities for the issuance of international certificates.

In case of any deficiencies, the surveyor records them in the report and advises the shipowner on corrective measures. Once these measures are taken, a re-survey may be assigned to ensure compliance with safety standards.