IAMSAR Manual Overview Quiz

IAMSAR Manual Overview

• IAMSAR is the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue.
• IAMSAR is a set of guidelines developed by IMO and ICAO.
• It provides a standardized framework for coordinating and conducting search and rescue operations at sea and in the air.

IAMSAR Philosophy

• The philosophy of IAMSAR is to provide a coordinated and effective response to search and rescue incidents.
• The ultimate goal is to save lives.

IAMSAR Principles

• Every effort must be made to save human lives.
• Search and rescue operations must be conducted in a coordinated and effective manner.
• The safety of search and rescue personnel and the public must be given priority.
• Search and rescue operations must be conducted in accordance with international standards and best practices.
• Search and rescue operations must be conducted with respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other states.
• The use of all available resources (including technology and mobile facilities) must be maximized to increase the effectiveness of search and rescue operations.

IAMSAR Manual Volumes

• Volume I: Organization and Management: This volume provides an overview of the search and rescue system and the roles and responsibilities of various organizations involved. It discusses the Global SAR System, national and regional SAR systems, and cooperation with neighboring states. Users of this volume are Search and Rescue Coordinators (SAR Coordinators).
• Volume II: Mission Coordination: This volume provides guidance on the planning and coordination of search and rescue operations, including distress identification, search area determination, resource allocation, communication, and reporting procedures. Users of this volume are Search and Rescue Mission Coordinators (SMCs).
• Volume III: Mobile Facilities: This volume provides guidance on the use of mobile facilities (like aircraft and vessels) in search and rescue operations. It includes information on equipment and facilities required, as well as guidance on planning and conducting search and rescue operations. Users are On-Scene Coordinators (OCSs).

IAMSAR Essential Requirements for Ships

• Preparedness: Ships must maintain readiness to assist in SAR operations as required by international regulations (specifically under the SOLAS Convention). Crew members must be familiar with the IAMSAR Manual, especially guidance on assisting distressed persons at sea.
• Communication: Ships must have reliable communication equipment like VHF/MF/HF radios, GMDSS equipment, and satellite communication systems. They must be able to receive and respond to distress signals promptly.
• Navigation: Ships should have updated charts and navigational aids to approach the search area. Radar, AIS, and other detection systems are required to locate vessels or individuals in distress. Searchlights are needed for nighttime operations.
• Response Coordination: Ships must cooperate with SAR authorities and act as directed by the SAR Mission Coordinator, providing regular updates on position, actions, and observations.
• Survivor Assistance: Ships must be equipped to render assistance to survivors (including first aid and medical care, and ensuring access to food, water, and shelter). Appropriate safety measures must be taken when rescuing survivors.
• Onboard Training and Drills: Regular SAR drills must be conducted to ensure crew familiarity with emergency procedures. Training should cover launching and operating rescue boats, recovering individuals from the water, and managing survivors onboard.
• Legal Obligations: The obligation to render assistance is mandated by international law (including the UNCLOS). Ships are required to assist persons in distress without endangering their own vessel and crew.