Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
Why You Need a Certificate
About GMDSS Short Range Certificate (SRC) course
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
Why is this course important?
Before 1999, radio equipment requirements were based solely on vessel size and passenger capacity. Large vessels like ferries were obligated to carry long-range radio systems, while smaller yachts could cross oceans equipped with just a basic MF radio — often with limited or no reception. In many cases, distress calls went unanswered.
To improve safety at sea and standardize maritime communication, the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) was introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) convention.
Why You Need a Certificate
Mandatory
Anyone operating VHF radio equipment (fixed or handheld) within GMDSS Sea Area A1 must hold a recognized radio operator’s certificate.
SRC in A1 area
For this course, you will train to obtain the Short Range Certificate (SRC) — the required qualification for operating VHF radio equipment with or without DSC in A1 areas.
How the World is Divided
GMDSS Sea Areas:
A1
VHF coverage of a coast-based Search and Rescue (SAR) station (approx. 20–30 NM from shore)
A3
Inmarsat satellite coverage (between 70°N and 70°S)
A2
MF coverage of a SAR station (approx. 100–150 NM from shore)
A4
Outside satellite coverage (polar regions)
What GMDSS Does
GMDSS defines equipment and communication protocols used to:
- Send distress alerts to Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCC), Coast Radio Stations (CRS), and nearby vessels
- Broadcast Maritime Safety Information (MSI) on a regular basis
- Ensure all SOLAS vessels are equipped to communicate in their operating area
What is SOLAS?
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) is the most important international treaty for maritime safety. It classifies vessels into:
SOLAS vessels
Cargo ships ≥ 300 GT and all passenger ships (with some exceptions)
SOLAS vessels
must comply with GMDSS equipment carriage regulations
Non-SOLAS vessels
Typically smaller craft like leisure yachts or training vessels
Non-SOLAS vessels
are not required to comply, but GMDSS is increasingly adopted to improve safety
| Certificate | Required For | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| GOC (General Operator’s Certificate) | GMDSS Areas A1 - A4 | SOLAS vessels |
| ROC (Restricted Operator’s Certificate) | GMDSS Area A1 | SOLAS vessels |
| LRC (Long Range Certificate) | A1 - A4 | Non-SOLAS vessels |
| SRC (Short Range Certificate) | A1 only | Non-SOLAS vessels (this course) |
Safety first
Who is this course for?
Skippers of sailing and motor yachts
Sailing school students and instructors
Recreational boaters and charter crews
Anyone operating a VHF radio in GMDSS Sea Area A1
After completing the course, you’ll be able to:
Increase the safety of your vessel and crew
Respond to distress situations and transmit emergency calls
Understand GMDSS procedures and safety protocols
Legally operate marine VHF equipment with DSC
