How do you communicate and coordinate with other GMDSS stakeholders during the testing process?

1 Identify the stakeholders

In the testing process, the first step is to identify which stakeholders you must communicate and coordinate with. This may include the flag state administration, which is the country where your vessel is registered and has the authority to issue certificates and approve equipment. Additionally, you may need to work with the radio inspection service, which performs technical verification and certification of GMDSS equipment. Furthermore, the coast station provides radio communication and assistance to vessels in distress or in need of safety information. The search and rescue service coordinates response and rescue operations in case of an emergency at sea. Finally, the manufacturer or supplier of GMDSS equipment may provide technical support, warranty, or updates.

2 Plan the testing schedule

The next step is to plan the testing schedule for your GMDSS equipment. This involves determining the frequency, duration, and type of tests that you need to perform, according to the requirements of your flag state and the equipment specifications. You also need to consider the availability and accessibility of the stakeholders that you need to contact during the testing process. For example, you may need to arrange a date and time with the radio inspection service or the coast station for conducting certain tests. You may also need to check the weather and sea conditions, as they may affect the performance and reliability of your equipment.

3 Conduct the tests

The third step is to conduct the tests according to the plan and the procedures, following instructions and guidelines from flag states, radio inspection services, manufacturers, or other sources. Appropriate tools and equipment, such as test transmitters, receivers, antennas, batteries, or software should be used. During the tests, communication and coordination with stakeholders involved or affected by the tests is necessary. This could include notifying a coast station before and after conducting a radio test, requesting a radio check or a position report from another vessel or a satellite service provider, contacting the radio inspection service or the manufacturer if any problems or issues arise with equipment, and reporting any incidents or accidents that may occur during the tests to relevant authorities.

4 Record the results

The fourth step is to record the results of the tests in a clear and accurate manner. You need to document the date, time, location, equipment, parameters, methods, and outcomes of each test. You also need to note any deviations, anomalies, errors, or failures that may occur during the tests, and their causes and solutions. You may use a standardized format or template for recording the results, such as the GMDSS equipment test report template. You may also use electronic or digital tools, such as spreadsheets, databases, or software, to store and organize the data.

5 Submit the reports

The fifth step is to submit the reports of the tests to the stakeholders that require or request them. You need to comply with the deadlines, formats, and procedures that each stakeholder specifies. You also need to ensure that the reports are complete, correct, and consistent. You may use different methods or channels for submitting the reports, such as mail, email, fax, or online platforms. You may also need to provide additional information or evidence, such as certificates, receipts, or photos, to support or verify your reports.

6 Follow up and feedback

The final step is to follow up and feedback on the testing process with the stakeholders that are involved or interested. You need to monitor and review the status and outcome of your reports, and check if they are accepted, approved, or rejected. You also need to respond to any queries, comments, or suggestions that you may receive from the stakeholders, and address any issues or concerns that they may raise. You may also seek feedback from the stakeholders on how you can improve your testing process, and implement their recommendations or best practices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?