The IMO’s Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue is taking place, having begun from January 15 until the 24th, continuing its ongoing work to review the GMDSS requirements, to enable the use of modern communication systems in the GMDSS, while removing requirements to carry obsolete systems.
#1 GMDSS to enter into force in 2024
Specifically, the goal is to officialize the review of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) in 2021, submit it to the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), so that SOLAS amendments can be adopted for entry into force in 2024.
In 2019, the IMO participated at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) World Radiocommunication Conference and highlighted that the integrity of maritime radio-communication services has to be protected.
#2 Update of the International SafetyNET Services Manual
This time, the Sub-Committee will also complete its update of the International SafetyNET Services Manual, an integral part of the GMDSS which provides an automatic direct-printing satellite-based service for the promulgation of safety information and warnings.
Moreover, during the review, the Sub-Committee will acquire data of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), with a view to considering its recognition as a future component of the world-wide radio navigation system, as well as data of the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) (Japan) for development of performance standards for QZSS equipment and with a view to its future recognition.
#3 Polar Code
In the meantime, it was also discussed that the Polar Code is mandatory under SOLAS, yet excluding fishing vessels, pleasure yachts, smaller ships under 500 gross tons and vessels on domestic voyages.
Proposed revisions to guidelines on places of refuge for ships in need of assistance will also be considered.
#4 Vessel traffic services
The Sub-Committee is expected to review the guidelines for vessel traffic services, also reviewing proposed amended ships’ routeing measures, discuss matters relating to the functioning and operation of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) and prepare liaison statements to the International Telecommunications Union.
