Q&A.

How often must a GMDSS radio survey be carried out?

GMDSS Radio Surveys are carried out in accordance with SOLAS requirements as Initial, Annual, Intermediate, Periodical and Renewal surveys. In general, the equipment must be surveyed annually as a part of the vessel’s statutory certification. The annual survey should be completed within the permitted window of three months before or three months after the anniversary date of Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate or Passenger Ship Safety Certificate.

Can you carry out Radio Survey for vessels classed with other classification societies?

Yes. We can perform Radio Survey for vessels classed with other classification societies, subject to approval from the attending and responsible surveyor of the vessel’s class. In practice, such arrangements are commonly accepted, and surveyors are often supportive of this approach, especially in the yachting sector.

For which Flag States can you carry out Radio Surveys?

We are able to perform Radio Surveys fora wide range of Flag States. In most cases, this depends on approval from the Flag State, which may approve Manat Marine to perform the Radio Survey based on our certification and experience.

What documents should be available on board for the Radio Survey?

• Valid Ship Radio StationLicence
• Radio Log Book
• Ship Safety Radio Certificate for cargo ships with a Record of Equipment (Form R) attached (if applicable)
• Ship Safety Certificate for passenger ships with a Record of equipment (Form P) attached (if applicable)
• Certificates of competence of the radio operators
• Valid GMDSS Shore Based Maintenance Agreement (SBM) (if appropriate)
• 406 MHz EPIRB (s) Shore Based Maintenance test report
• A Certificate of 406MHz beacon registration
• Record of radio equipment installed on board with related manuals and operations instructions
• Documentary evidence of the annual capacity check of the reserve batteries
• ITU Publications (latest editions)
• LRIT Conformance Test Report (CTR) (if applicable)

Is it necessary to provide the previous Radio Survey Report?

Yes. We recommend providing the latest radio survey report, as it greatly facilitates the inspection process and helps ensure a faster and more efficient service.

Do I need to provide the required survey forms?

Yes. It is necessary that you provide the latest editions of the required for msissued by your Flag State or Classification Society. These can usually be obtained directly from them.

We have changed the vessel’s flag. What needs to be done with the radio equipment?

All radio equipment, including SES, EPIRB and AIS, must be reprogrammed in accordance with the vessel’s new identification data. This includes MMSI number, call sign, recognized mobile satellite service SES ID,and where applicable the vessel’s name.

What documents are requires for reprogram the radio equipment?

A valid Radio Licence containing all updated vessel identification data is required (MMSI, call sign and other relevant data).

Do I need to check batteries and the hydrostatic release units – HRU before a Radio Survey?

Yes. Before the Radio Survey, please ensure that all relevant batteries are within their validity period and that the hydrostatic release units are also in date and in order.

What is the cost of a radio survey?

The cost of a Radio Survey depends on the vessel’s GMDSS area of operation and the configuration of the installed radio equipment. A detailed quotation can be provided upon request.