RYA SRC Radio Operator Responsibilities

Question 1

What qualification is required to operate a VHF marine radio in UK waters?

Accepted Answer

Short Range Certificate (SRC)

Answer

Long Range Certificate (LRC)

Answer

Class 1 Radio Operator Certificate

Answer

No qualification is required for recreational use

Question 2

What does the Short Range Certificate (SRC) authorise?

Accepted Answer

Operation of VHF and DSC radios up to 25 watts

Answer

Operation of all GMDSS equipment including MF/HF radio

Answer

Use of satellite communications only

Answer

Operation without a Ship Radio Licence

Question 3

Under what circumstances may an unlicensed person operate a marine VHF radio?

Accepted Answer

In a genuine emergency to save life, any person may transmit

Answer

Only when supervised by an SRC holder

Answer

Never — the SRC is always required

Answer

When the vessel is within 3 miles of the coast

Question 4

Who is responsible for ensuring a VHF radio is operated correctly on a vessel?

Accepted Answer

The skipper (master) is ultimately responsible

Answer

Only the person holding the SRC

Answer

The vessel owner regardless of who is sailing

Answer

The marina where the vessel is berthed

Question 5

What is the SRC holder's responsibility regarding false distress alerts?

Accepted Answer

They must take all reasonable steps to prevent false alerts and immediately cancel any accidental activation

Answer

They are not liable for equipment malfunctions

Answer

Only the vessel owner is responsible for false alerts

Answer

They must report all false alerts to the RYA

Question 6

What ongoing responsibility does an SRC holder have regarding their radio equipment?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the MMSI is correctly programmed, GPS connected, and the radio is maintained in working order

Answer

Only to renew their SRC certificate every 5 years

Answer

To submit monthly radio logs to the MCA

Answer

To attend annual radio refresher courses