Inmarsat, a global and mobile satellite communications company, has launched Fleet Safety to modernise safety communication and improve safety standards in global shipping
Fleet Safety was granted International Maritime Organisation (IMO) approval under Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS) requirements following the assessment by the International Mobile Satellite Organisation.
Senior vice president of safety and regulatory at Inmarsat Maritime, Peter Broadhurst, 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.”
Following the launch of RescueNET and SafetyNET II, Inmarsat has updated documentation and created training material to ensure the industry is ready for the new safety service. In addition, Inmarsat has added Fleet Poll, a new data reporting service for Long Range Identification Tracking (LRIT), Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) and Ships Security Alert System.
The safety system offers unrivalled network availability and global coverage. Its interface is optimised for usability, making it easier for seafarers to access critical functionality and communicate with Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) in an emergency.
It also includes an innovative Maritime Safety Information (MSI) interface and a Distress Chat Function, which allows users to control the stream of MSI broadcasts and download historic broadcasts, which include meteorological, navigational and search-and-rescue warnings.
