MCA CoC Marine Communications & GMDSS 1

Question 1

What does GMDSS stand for?

Accepted Answer

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

Answer

GMDSS stands for Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, the internationally mandated framework for maritime emergency and safety communications.

Question 2

Which VHF channel is exclusively designated for DSC distress alerting under GMDSS?

Accepted Answer

Channel 70

Answer

VHF Channel 70 is reserved exclusively for Digital Selective Calling (DSC) distress alerts; voice distress communications then take place on Channel 16.

Question 3

What frequency does the international NAVTEX service use to broadcast Maritime Safety Information?

Accepted Answer

518 kHz

Answer

NAVTEX broadcasts Maritime Safety Information (MSI) on 518 kHz in the medium frequency band, automatically received by vessels equipped with a NAVTEX receiver.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of an EPIRB?

Accepted Answer

To transmit a distress signal and vessel position to SAR authorities via satellite

Answer

An EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) transmits a distress signal to COSPAS-SARSAT satellites, alerting SAR authorities and providing the vessel's position.

Question 5

In which GMDSS sea areas is a satellite EPIRB mandatory for SOLAS vessels?

Accepted Answer

A3 and A4

Answer

GMDSS sea areas A3 and A4 lie beyond the coverage of MF and VHF coastal stations, so vessels trading there must carry a satellite EPIRB to ensure global distress alerting capability.

MCA CoC Practice Test

MCA CoC Practice Test

MCA CoC Marine Communications & GMDSS 1