STCW GMDSS - Restricted Operator Certificate


  

Course Code: MX1EC413

  

Maritime & Nautical


Next course dates

Start DateLocationDuration / Fee
2 Nov 2026Fleetwood Nautical Campus3 Days/ £1,270Apply   
23 Mar 2027Fleetwood Nautical Campus3 Days/ £1,270Enquire  
28 Jun 2027Fleetwood Nautical Campus3 Days/ £1,270Enquire  

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Course Overview

To gain knowledge of, and competence in, the operational use of terrestrial-based GMDSS VHF radio communications systems for Officers in charge of the Navigational Watch in Sea Area A1 only. 

The course is for those wishing to operate VHF radios on mandatory fit vessels and installations, including offshore production platforms and MOUs (Mobile Offshore Units).

This course is also suitable for individuals wishing to peruse VTS Operator course (V103/1).

Assessment will be made in the form of written tests, direct observation, oral questioning and simulated scenarios.

A Course Completion certificate will be issued by the College on completion of the three-day training phase, and an Authority to Operate will be issued by AMERC on behalf of Ofcom on examination success.

Examination will follow after the completion of the three-day course, which will be extended to another day or a day and a half depending on the number of candidates.

You will need to bring to the course:

  • Discharge Book or, if you have not been issued with one, passport or other nationally recognised identification
  • Any previous radio qualifications
  • Any previously issued Certificate of Completion

Entry Requirements

Minimum age of 18 years for issue of certification.

There are no formal entry requirements as this course covers all aspects of GMDSS (ROC) and assumes no pre-qualification in radio communication.

Career Options and Progression

This course will allow you to take the examination and obtain ROC to work as a restricted GMDSS operator in any vessel operating in GMDSS A1 area, any port setting or a VTS station.

This course also satisfies one of the key requirements for non-marine personnel to enroll on the IALA VTS V103/1 Induction course and subsequently on to the IALA VTS V103/1 Simulator Operator course.

Upon the successful completion of this course, and once you have satisfied all the other requirements of the IALA VTS V103/1, you will be qualified as a VTS operator and be able to work in any seaport or any VTS centre in the world.

Assessment Methods

Th following areas will be covered prior to the summative assessments. 

  • Principles of VHF Radio propagation        
  • VHF radio equipment
  • Simplex and Duplex operation        
  • Ofcom licensing (Ship station, Transportable, Operator)
  • Assigned frequencies            
  • Procedures and procedural phrases
  • The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System    
  • Maritime Safety Information and NAVTEX
  • Use and maintenance of SARTS and EPIRBS                
  • VHF DSC operations
  • Distress, Urgency, Safety and Routine radio operations

Formative assessments will be made during the delivery of the course in the form of written tests, direct observation, oral questioning, quizzing and by simulated scenarios to facilitate the candidate to undertake following summative assessments at the end of the course.

  1. SOLAS and Regulations: general knowledge written assessment
  2. Radiotelephony: radio log keeping and practical VHF voice communication assessment
  3. Operational Performance Test: one to one practical assessment

Summative Assessment is carried out by an approved assessor on behalf of the MCA.

Industry Placement and Field Trips

There are no requirements for industry placement and/or field trips to complete this course.

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

A personal computer (PC) device, stationery items and calculators will be needed.

There are no additional costs associated with this course.

Expert Tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of any courses within the College are approved to teach and/or assess the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering and/or assessing a given programme are appropriately qualified, with relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institution: N/A

Awarding Body: D Š*

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