GMDSS training-the impact of new technology

This paper describes new technology applications which several manufacturers are now applying to GMDSS simulators (emergency marine radiocommunication) in order to make them more realistic and more productive in trainee throughput, while enhancing the overall quality of training. What is the end aim of GMDSS training? Essentially, it is to enable deck officers to use the complete GMDSS suite in a confident, knowledgeable manner, with minimum risk of error. It will not guarantee that false alerts will never be transmitted, but it will certainly reduce their incidence to manageable levels. As well, of course, it will bring more order and discipline to overall communications traffic, especially in distress situations. At the same time, it must be recognized that the complete GMDSS suite is a fairly formidable array of communications equipment, and complete mastery of it is a challenge. This is particularly the case with deck officers who, generally speaking, are not-and have no inclination to be-radio specialists. With the aid of new training technology, they no longer need to be.