Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, an internationally agreed-upon set of safety procedures, types of equipment, and communication protocols used to increase safety and make it easier to rescue distressed ships, boats, and aircraft. GMDSS replaced the previous manual Morse code system and is required under SOLAS.
Also known as: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.
Category: Safety & Emergency
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Collision RegulationsThe International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), a set of rules published by the IMO that establish navigation protocols for vessels to follow in order to avoid collisions.Enclosed Space EntryA regulated procedure for entering confined or enclosed spaces aboard a vessel, such as cargo holds, ballast tanks, and void spaces, where the atmosphere may be oxygen-deficient or contain hazardous gases.Fire DrillA mandatory practice exercise conducted at regular intervals on board ship to train crew members in fire prevention, detection, and firefighting procedures.Immersion SuitA protective suit designed to reduce body heat loss when immersed in cold water, required to be carried on vessels operating in cold-water regions.ISM AuditAn inspection conducted by flag state authorities or recognised organisations to verify that a shipping company and its vessels comply with the International Safety Management Code.Life RaftAn inflatable or rigid survival craft that provides emergency flotation for persons abandoning ship.
Back to DictionaryEntry updated May 2026