Long Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT) is a system which requires applicable ships to transmit their identity and position every 6 hours. It is a secure, satellite based system which means that ships can be tracked globally and will never be out of range of the system. LRIT’s primary purposes are to aid co-ordination of search and rescue operations and enhance maritime security and environmental protection.
In a recent circular, the Isle of Man Ship Registry explains that all relevant ships must transmit LRIT information without interruption and should not switch
off their LRIT terminals or reduce the frequency of transmission except in very specific circumstances. LRIT is required under SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 19-1 and applies to the following types of ship, if engaged on international voyages:
- Passenger Ships, including high-speed passenger craft
- Cargo Ships of 300gt and above
- Commercial Yachts of 300gt and above
- Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Ships fitted with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) and operated exclusively within GMDSS sea area ‘A1’ do not need to comply with LRIT regulations.
Ceasing LRIT Transmissions
LRIT transmissions may be temporarily stopped or reduced in exceptional circumstances. Such circumstances are limited to the following:
a) When the ship is in dry-dock or undergoing modification in a shipyard or port for a period where frequent interruption of the system would cause undue problems;
b) When the ship is to be placed in lay-up for a long period; or
c) When the Master determines that the transmission of LRIT information compromises the safety or security their ship. Transmissions must be switched back on as soon as the threat as passed and Ship Registry should be informed of the occurrence without undue delay.
Masters should be aware that deactivation by shutting down the power supply may cause disruption to other systems that are mandatory under SOLAS.
Concluding, the Ship Registry hihglights that it continuously monitors reporting intervals and will investigate any instance where a ship fails to transmit LRIT information, unless we have been advised in advance. The Company Security Officer will be contacted if the vessel found to be not reporting.
