Take 10 #43: Preparing for an SAR operation and debriefing afterwards
Ten key aspects of preparing for an SAR operation and debriefing afterwards.
1 Legal and moral obligation
All vessels can be requested to participate in SAR activities – it’s a legal obligation (UNCLOS, SOLAS, SAR Convention).
2 Read all about it
The best guidance for ships’ crews is the International Aeronautical and Maritime SAR Manual (IAMSAR). Volume III should be on every ship; become familiar with it.
3 Communication matters
There are many stakeholders in a SAR event, including those on your ship, on other ships, in the sky and ashore. Clear and effective communication between them all is essential.
4 Coordination preparation
If appropriate, the MRCC may request your ship to act as an On-scene Coordinator (OSC) during an SAR. Be prepared.
5 Whole ship response
Some SAR operations require a whole ship response including the navigation team, dedicated communication officer and extra lookouts. Crew can gather blankets and hot food, medical personnel remain on standby to receive casualties and engineering personnel prepare to manoeuvre the vessel.
6 Welfare and wellbeing
Some SAR events can be traumatic for casualties and crew; keep an eye on everyone involved and monitor fatigue
among your crew during longer operations.
7 Scenario planning
It can be helpful to discuss potential SAR scenarios with your crew. The IAMSAR manual is a good basis for this. No two SAR events are
the same: stay flexible (within safety margins).
8 Essential equipment
Information about restricted areas uses specific symbols. The way information is presented is different on paper and electronic charts. Further information may be needed from sailing directions or local sources.
9 Shared learning
Any member of the ship’s crew might have SAR experience that they are willing to share if asked. Always share knowledge of what ‘good looks like’ and what might go wrong if SAR is not handled correctly.
10 Debrief and decompress
After an SAR incident and once the crew are rested and have had time to reflect, it is always good to hold a debrief to identify where praise is due and lessons learned. These issues should also be shared with shore management.