Innovative approaches to maritime safety communications are made possible by technologies that offer unmatched performance, cutting-edge functionality, and a simple user interface.
The goal of Fleet Safety is to modernize maritime safety communications and raise safety standards in international shipping. Inmarsat is the market leader in global, mobile satellite communications. The formal launch, which has been in the works for a number of years as a replacement for the industry-leading Inmarsat C maritime safety service, comes after the completion of Fleet Safety sea trials successfully.
After being evaluated by the International Mobile Satellite Organization, Fleet Safety received approval from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in accordance with GMDSS regulations (IMSO).
Inmarsat has updated documents and developed training materials in the wake of the introduction of RescueNET and SafetyNET II in order to make sure the industry is prepared for the new safety service. Fleet Poll, a new data reporting service for Long Range Identification Monitoring (LRIT), Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS), asset tracking, and Ships Security Alert System, has also been added by Inmarsat. Getting Flag State permission is the next step before adoption is widespread in the maritime sector.
Peter Broadhurst, Senior Vice President of Safety and Regulatory, Inmarsat Maritime, said “To this day, Inmarsat C forms the backbone of the GMDSS, with more than 100,000 marine terminals having safeguarded the lives of seafarers for over 30 years. However, as we move further into the digital era of shipping, technology can be used for enhanced safety and also provides new ways of tackling emerging challenges. The launch of Fleet Safety marks a turning point in the way satellite communications ensure the preservation of life at sea.”
With the inclusion of a Maritime Safety Terminal, Fleet Safety is delivered via the company’s already-existing FleetBroadband or Fleet One voice and data services. It provides unmatched network availability and worldwide coverage. In addition to being more user-friendly, its redesigned interface makes it simpler for sailors to access vital functionality and get in touch with Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers (MRCCs) in an emergency. Now, a network of more than 60 global MRCCs can be reached instantly by voice call or instant message.
Additionally, Fleet Safety has a Distress Chat feature and a cutting-edge Maritime Safety Information (MSI) interface. The MSI feature enables users to manage the MSI broadcast stream and download previous transmissions, which include weather, navigational, and search-and-rescue alerts. The Distress Conversation feature, meanwhile, allows for the establishment of chat rooms between ships in distress, aiding in faster response/resolution times from both vessels and MRCCs.
Because Fleet Safety users have access to so many capabilities and functionalities, Inmarsat has also made an investment in training sailors to assist them to fully utilize the system. The strategy intends to educate sailors on the value of being proactive in marine distress communications, going above and beyond user guidance.
“In a precarious situation, notifying rescue authorities early can prove pivotal in saving the ship and, more importantly, the lives of the crew on board,” said Broadhurst. “Seafarers will generally do their utmost to rectify an issue before requesting assistance, but Inmarsat’s Fleet Safety facilitates a culture for personnel to report situations early, rather than wait until events get beyond their control.”
Inmarsat’s DNA includes a focus on maritime safety. The IMO established the business in 1979 with the goal of creating a satellite communications network to safeguard the lives of sailors. Inmarsat contributed to design the IMO’s GMDSS, a set of standards for maritime safety, and with the launch of Inmarsat C in 1991, it became the first satellite operator to meet its strict requirements for ship security warning systems.
References
Sinnatt , J. (2022, September 5). Maritime safety communication modernised as INMARSAT launches fleet safety. Inmarsat Corporate Website. Retrieved September 6, 2022, from https://www.inmarsat.com/en/news/latest-news/maritime/2022/maritime-safety-communication-fleet-safety-launched.html
