Section A-IV/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of GMDSS radio operators
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40

Section A-IV/2 Mandatory minimum requirements for certification of GMDSS radio operators

Standard of competence

1 The minimum knowledge, understanding and proficiency required for certification of GMDSS radio operators shall be sufficient for radio operators to carry out their radio duties. The knowledge required for obtaining each type of certificate defined in the Radio Regulations shall be in accordance with those regulations. In addition, every candidate for certification of competency shall be required to demonstrate ability to undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2.

  2 The knowledge, understanding and proficiency for endorsement under the Convention of certificates issued under the provisions of the Radio Regulations are listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2.

  3 The level of knowledge of the subjects listed in column 2 of table A-IV/2 shall be sufficient for the candidate to carry out his dutiesfootnote.

  4 Every candidate shall provide evidence of having achieved the required standard of competence through:

  • .1 demonstration of competence to perform the tasks and duties and to assume responsibilities listed in column 1 of table A-IV/2, in accordance with the methods for demonstrating competence and the criteria for evaluating competence tabulated in columns 3 and 4 of that table; and

  • .2 examination or continuous assessment as part of an approved course of training based on the material set out in column 2 of table A-IV/2.

Table A-IV/2 Specification of minimum standard of competence for GMDSS radio operators

Function: Radiocommunications at the operational level
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4
Competence Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency Methods for demonstrating competence Criteria for evaluating competence
Transmit and receive information using GMDSS subsystems and equipment and fulfilling the functional requirements of GMDSS In addition to the requirements of the Radio Regulations, a knowledge of:
  • .1 search and rescue radiocommunications, including procedures in the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual
  • .2 the means to prevent the transmission of false distress alerts and the procedures to mitigate the effects of such alerts
  • .3 ship reporting systems
  • .4 radio medical services
  • .5 use of the International Code of Signals and the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases
  • .6 the English language, both written and spoken, for the communication of information relevant to safety of life at sea


Note: This requirement may be reduced in the case of the Restricted Radio Operator’s Certificate 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical demonstration of operational procedures, using:
  • .1 approved equipment
  • .2 GMDSS communication simulator, where appropriatefootnote
  • .3 radiocommunication laboratory equipment
 Transmission and reception of communications comply with international regulations and procedures and are carried out efficiently and effectively

English language messages relevant to the safety of the ship, security and persons on board and protection of the marine environment are correctly handled
Provide radio services in emergencies The provision of radio services in emergencies such as:
  • .1 abandon ship
  • .2 fire on board ship
  • .3 partial or full breakdown of radio installations


Preventive measures for the safety of ship and personnel in connection with hazards related to radio equipment, including electrical and non-ionizing radiation hazards 		Examination and assessment of evidence obtained from practical demonstration of operational procedures, using:
  • .1 approved equipment
  • .2 GMDSS communication simulator, where appropriatefootnote
  • .3 radiocommunication laboratory equipment
 Response is carried out efficiently and effectively
Parent topic: Chapter IV - Standards regarding radio operators
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