PAMS Pacific Admiralty Maritime Services provides MARINA Accredited Radio Survey Services supporting vessel operators with professional GMDSS inspections, marine communication system assessments, testing, and technical consultancy. Our radio survey services are accepted by major Classification Societies, including Bureau Veritas (BV), DNV, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK/NK), Lloyd’s Register (LR), and RINA, ensuring compliance with applicable statutory and class requirements.
● MF/HF Radio Communication Systems
● Satellite Communication Equipment (Inmarsat / approved GMDSS satellite systems)
● Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) – 406 MHz
● Search and Rescue Transponders (SART / AIS-SART)
● Two-Way Portable VHF Radios for Survival Craft
● Automatic Identification System (AIS)
● Navigation and safety communication interfaces
● NAVTEX receiver systems
● GPS input and distress alert positioning systems
● GMDSS batteries and charging systems
● Antennas, cables, connectors, and associated components
● GMDSS Radio Log Book
● Radio Maintenance Records
● Annual performance test certificates
● Shore-Based Maintenance Agreement (where applicable)
● Equipment manuals and approved certificates
● EPIRB registration documents
● Battery replacement records
● Previous radio survey reports
● Sea Area A2 – MF DSC coverage
● Sea Area A3 – Satellite communication coverage
● Sea Area A4 – Polar region communication requirements
● Registration verification
● Hydrostatic release inspection
● Battery expiry verification
● Float-free arrangement inspection
● GPS position transmission test (where fitted)
● Radar/AIS response verification
● Battery condition inspection
● Expiry date verification
● Battery capacity verification
● Charger inspection
● Spare battery availability
● Emergency equipment readiness confirmation
● Radio equipment repairs
● Antenna and cable replacement
● Power supply repairs
● Battery replacement and testing
● Communication failure diagnosis
● DSC programming corrections
● MMSI and vessel identification programming
● EPIRB coding assistance
● SART replacement recommendations
● VHF portable radio supply and replacement
● Emergency communication equipment upgrade recommendations
● New VHF radio installation
● MF/HF communication system installation
● Satellite communication equipment installation
● AIS installation and integration
● EPIRB installation and replacement
● SART / AIS-SART installation
● GMDSS battery installation
● Antenna system installation
● MMSI programming
● DSC setup verification
● Communication testing
● Integration checks with bridge systems
● Documentation update review
● Call sign configuration
● IMO number verification
● DSC channel configuration
● VHF radio programming
● AIS static data verification
● EPIRB registration assistance
● GMDSS database information review
● Emergency generator supply
● Dedicated GMDSS battery supply
● Charging system verification
● Battery condition assessment
● Emergency changeover testing
● Alarm verification
● Record review
● False alert cancellation procedures
● GMDSS operating instructions
● Radio emergency procedures
● Required communication notices
● Equipment operating manuals availability
✔ GMDSS operational readiness
✔ Reliable emergency communication capability
✔ Reduced risk of Port State Control deficiencies
✔ Improved vessel safety performance
✔ Proper documentation and maintenance records
Radio Survey & GMDSS Inspection FAQ
What is a vessel radio survey?
A vessel radio survey is a mandatory inspection and operational test of the ship’s GMDSS and communication systems to verify compliance with SOLAS Chapter IV requirements and confirm reliable emergency communication capability.
What equipment is inspected during a GMDSS radio survey?
The inspection covers VHF DSC radios, MF/HF communication systems, satellite communication equipment, EPIRBs, SARTs, AIS, portable survival craft VHF radios, antennas, batteries, and associated communication systems.
How often is a vessel radio survey required?
Radio surveys are normally carried out annually as part of the Safety Radio Certificate renewal process. Requirements may vary depending on Flag State, Classification Society, and statutory regulations.
What documents are required for a radio survey?
Required documents include the Ship Radio Station License, GMDSS Radio Log Book, maintenance records, equipment certificates, EPIRB registration details, battery replacement records, and previous survey reports.
Can PAMS assist with GMDSS repairs and equipment replacement?
Yes. PAMS provides technical support for fault investigation, GMDSS repairs, equipment replacement recommendations, antenna repairs, battery renewal, and communication system troubleshooting.
Does PAMS support new radio installation and programming?
Yes. PAMS provides technical consultancy support for new GMDSS installations, VHF radio installation, MMSI programming, DSC configuration, AIS data verification, EPIRB coding assistance, and system commissioning.
Why is GMDSS battery testing important?
GMDSS equipment must remain operational during emergencies. Battery testing confirms that dedicated radio power supplies, charging systems, and emergency changeover arrangements are functioning correctly.
Can PAMS assist with portable VHF radio supply?
Yes. PAMS can support vessel operators with technical specification review, replacement planning, and supply coordination for approved portable VHF radios, batteries, chargers, and emergency communication accessories.
Ready to Proceed?
Request a survey or audit today. Describe your vessel and specific requirements, and our team will respond within 4 business hours.