Shipowners should be aware that there is an approximate 25%
chance that their existing Inmarsat C terminals will not be
compliant to the LRIT regulation. The reasons for non-compliance
range from: the Master's log-off and/or power-down procedures
when in port, antenna location, superstructure blockages,
radar equipment inference, external wide-area radio interference
(in certain locations), technical failure caused by out-of-date
software, technical failure as a result of old and/or unsupported
hardware.
Because the shipboard LRIT equipment must be capable of being
controlled and programmed by an ASP, and because of the likely
serious consequences of non-compliance to LRIT, it is important
that LRIT equipment performance is as robust as possible.
Existing GMDSS Inmarsat C equipment will, in most cases, be
technically compliant to the regulation. However, compliance
to the LRIT performance standard requires that all the necessary
Inmarsat C system procedures are followed on board the vessel.
Shipowners are advised to regularly check that they have the
latest Flag marine guidance notices in this respect.
The most reliable and appropriate equipment to ensure performance
compliance to the LRIT regulation is equipment that is designed
to be 'always-on' and which is not capable of being reconfigured
or disabled on board the vessel.
To discuss the supply and installation of a dedicated, stand-alone
transceiver as the best solution for LRIT compliance, contact
us at
