False distress alerts activated from VHF DSC, MF/HF DSC, recognized ship earth station (SES) and EPIRBs may impose a considerable and unnecessary burden on Rescue Coordination Centers (RCCs) and on national exchequer by engaging search and rescue (SAR) authorities for carrying out SAR operation, and it could have a potentially serious impact on real distress situations and safety of life at sea. It also has an adverse effect on seafarer’s confidence in the GMDSS.
In that regard, the IMO has issued “Revised Guidelines for the avoidance of False Distress Alerts” through the Resolution MSC-514(105) dated 28 Apil2022.
Guidelines for Administrations
Administrations should:

