GMDSS Radio Equipment and Safety Inspection Checklist
This GMDSS radio equipment and safety inspection checklist ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter IV (Radio Communications), GMDSS Sea Area requirements (A1/A2/A3/A4), ITU Radio Regulations, and annual GMDSS survey requirements. All vessels subject to SOLAS must maintain properly functioning GMDSS equipment capable of transmitting and receiving distress communications in all sea areas operated.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Weekly
- Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
- Role: GMDSS Radio Officer / Master
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: SOLAS Chapter IV Radio Communications GMDSS, ITU Radio Regulations Distress Safety, IMO Resolution A.806(19) Performance Standards GMDSS, SOLAS IV/7 Radio Equipment Requirements Sea Areas, IHO IMO WMO NAVTEX Coordination
VHF Radio Equipment
VHF DSC and voice radio.
- VHF Channel 16 continuously monitored (bridge and engine room)?
- DSC Channel 70 watch receiver operational?
- VHF correctly programmed with vessel MMSI?
- Portable VHF radios charged and serviceable?
- VHF DSC self-test completed and logged?
MF/HF Radio Equipment
Long-range radio capability.
- MF 2182 kHz watch maintained when at sea?
- MF DSC 2187.5 kHz watch receiver operational?
- HF SSB radio operational for Sea Area A3/A4?
- MF/HF antenna system checked and operational?
- Narrow Band Direct Printing (NBDP) / SITOR operational?
Satellite Communications
Inmarsat and Iridium systems.
- Inmarsat terminal online and registered?
- Iridium/satellite phone operational (if fitted)?
- Inmarsat test message sent to coast earth station?
- Satellite communications account active and airtime available?
- LRIT (Long Range Identification and Tracking) transmitting correctly?
Distress and Safety Equipment
GMDSS distress alerting.
- EPIRB battery, hydrostatic release, and annual service current?
- EPIRB registered with national authority and correct vessel details?
- SART battery current and unit serviceable?
- AIS-SART battery and self-test current (if fitted)?
- NAVTEX receiver operational and printing current safety messages?
Reserve Power Sources
Battery backup systems.
- GMDSS reserve power source charged and tested?
- Reserve batteries providing minimum 1-hour distress capability?
- Emergency antenna available?
- UPS for radio equipment charged?
- Annual GMDSS survey by competent authority current?
Radio Records
GMDSS log and documentation.
- Radio Log maintained with daily entries?
- All distress calls heard logged and responded to?
- Weekly DSC test calls to coast station logged?
- Ship Station Radio License current and on board?
- GMDSS Inspection Notes
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Why Use This GMDSS Radio Equipment and Safety Inspection Checklist?
This gmdss radio equipment and safety inspection checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for gmdss radio officer / master professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: weekly.
Ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter IV Radio Communications GMDSS, ITU Radio Regulations Distress Safety, IMO Resolution A.806(19) Performance Standards GMDSS, SOLAS IV/7 Radio Equipment Requirements Sea Areas, IHO IMO WMO NAVTEX Coordination. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the GMDSS Radio Equipment and Safety Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: VHF Radio Equipment, MF/HF Radio Equipment, Satellite Communications, Distress and Safety Equipment, Reserve Power Sources, Radio Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed weekly. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
Who should use this GMDSS Radio Equipment and Safety Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for GMDSS Radio Officer / Master professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.