1. TC SES: Inmarsat GMDSS Satellite System Enhancing Maritime Safety
Dimitrios Papaharalabos Brian Mullan
TC SES Maritime Chairman, PD&M General Manager, Safety Services
Inmarsat Limited, UK Inmarsat Limited, UK
Tel: Tel:
Fax: Fax:

2. Introduction Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres
Data source access, past and present
The need for speed and accuracy
The new Inmarsat solution
False Distress Alerts
Evolutionary software implementation
Pro-active reduction in false distress alerts
Proof that it works!

3. Inmarsat’s Role in a Distress Scenario

4. MRCC Data Requirements
For information related to Inmarsat alerts
MRCCs traditionally called the Inmarsat NOC
Can be time consuming
Potential for not transcribing correctly
Accuracy and timeliness is essential

5. Making the Information available
Inmarsat holds the registration database
Contains sensitive commercial information
LESO agreement needed to release
Agreement obtained 
Development of special MRCC database
Trials late 2000/early 2001
Now open to all associated RCCs around the world

6. The new MRCC Database Advantages for MRCCs
True copy of relevant part of main Inmarsat database
Contains all information needed by the MRCC
Dynamically updated
24 x 7 availability
Secure web access
RCC operators have all information ‘on tap’
….. and can still also call to the NOC

7. False Distress Alerts Constantly debated at IMO
Seen by some as an increasing problem
But reality is quite different
Actions demanded – but how to achieve?
MF/HF DSC broadcast vs. Inmarsat distress
Inmarsat is one-to-one alerting
Real or false quickly established
Inmarsat research and results

8. Distress Alert Quality Control System
Accurate master database and application tools
Monthly reports now produced as routine
Actual distress usage on all Inmarsat standards
We now have proof and are taking action

9. Reducing False Alerts via Inmarsat
Worst offenders tackled first
Ships contacted directly from Inmarsat
“Softly, softly” approach adopted
“Do you have a problem, please?”
With the equipment; or
Understanding the operation; or
Training needs

10. Results achieved All ships have responded positively so far
Real reductions in false alerts
No immediate need to escalate action
However, if problems persist…
IMO and IMSO warm welcome
MRCC and other beneficiaries

11. Inmarsat – Enhancing Maritime Safety
Not just maintaining, but improving safety
Front line information support for MRCCs
Positive and practical response to IMO requirements
Reducing false alerts over the Inmarsat system
Policing misuse of the Inmarsat system

12. Dimitrios Papaharalabos
Any Questions?
Dimitrios Papaharalabos
TC SES Maritime Chairman, PD&M
Inmarsat Limited
Tel:
Fax: