ReVISED REQUIREMENTS for IMO APPROVED VHF

IMO has included new regulations for maritime VHFs for IMO vessels as described in MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.3. The new regulations will take effect from the first radio inspection after January 1st, 2024. 

RULEBASE

While these changes do not affect the Global Maritime Distress and Safety  System (GMDSS), they do affect the use of other frequencies used for VHF meteorological, navigational and urgent marine information broadcast, port operations and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS).

According to the performance standard for shipborne VHF installations, resolution A.803(19), VHF radio communication equipment should comply with the requirements of the ITU Radio Regulations, specifically appendix 18, which has been subject to extensive change with regards to frequencies and channelling arrangements for the maritime VHF bands.

CHECK WHETHER YOUR FURUNO VHF IS IN COMPLIANCE

In order to meet the new requirements system updates for FURUNO VHFs will in some cases be necessary. Relevant action should be one of the following depending on which model is  installed onboard;

• FURUNO VHF FM-8900S: Update software of the FM-8900S to ver. 4.01.
• FURUNO VHF FM-8500/8700/8800D/8800S:  Replace with VHF FM-8900S, and make sure the software version is Ver.4.01.

Overview of IMO approved  and GMDSS compliant Furuno VHF and recommended action.

How to Check the FURUNO VHF FM-8900S  Software Version

Daily test on FM-8900s (Operation manual Chapter 7-1).