National maritime SAR Framework 2010 - DTTAS … · National Maritime SAR Framework version final 2010 Publish date: 2nd March 2010 Pg 3 of 61 l Contents Part 1 Irish National Search

National Maritime SAR Framework version final 2010

Publish date: 2nd March 2010 Pg 1 of 61

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IRISH NATIONAL MARITIME

SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR)

FRAMEWORK



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Foreword Search and Rescue (SAR) comprises the search for and provision of aid to persons who are, or are believed to be, in imminent danger of loss of life. The two operations – search and rescue – may take many forms, depending on whether they are both required or not, on the size and complexity of the operation and on the available staff and facilities. Search and rescue does not include salvage or the saving of property except where the action is indivisible from that of safeguarding life. Dedicated SAR assets are limited in Ireland and when necessary, other government, private and commercial assets are diverted from their primary function in order to provide support. It is necessary that the available resources are organised and coordinated so that effective and expeditious search and/or rescue operations can be assured. This National Maritime Search and Rescue Framework is the standard reference document for use by all Irish Search and Rescue authorities working in the maritime domain and promulgates the agreed methods of coordination through which search and rescue operations are conducted within Ireland’s SAR Region. The Framework is supplemented by various informative and instructional documents, procedures, understandings and agreements used within and between organisations concerned with search and rescue. The manual is consistent with the relevant International Conventions to which Ireland is a party. It has been developed with due regard to the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR). For more detailed information on land SAR operations, readers should refer to the Major Emergency Framework Document on www.mem.ie. In providing a search and rescue response, nothing in the content of the Framework precludes properly qualified officers from using their initiative in providing a SAR response in circumstances where these procedures are judged to be inappropriate. In so doing, however, officers’ actions should conform as closely as possible to those instructions contained in the Framework most closely pertinent to the circumstances and they should keep all other parties involved informed. When developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) at the organisational level, care should be taken to ensure that procedures are written in accordance with this Framework. Should an SOP be identified that would benefit the SAR community it is recommended that the issue is raised with the National Maritime & Aviation Emergency Advisory Committee. This manual will be promulgated on the Internet for the use of all search and rescue practitioners. The Internet version on the Department of Transport web site is the controlled document and is the latest version of this manual. It should always be referred to as it contains the most up to date information. Noel Dempsey T.D. Minister for Transport



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Contents Part 1

Irish National Search and Rescue Framework

1.1. Introduction

1.2. International Obligations

1.3. Purpose

1.4. Scope

1.5. Objectives

1.6. Participants

1.7. Irish Search and Rescue Region (IRSRR)

1.8. Division of SAR Responsibilities within the IRSRR

1.9. Irish Aeronautical & Maritime Emergency Advisory Committee

1.10. Irish Marine Search and Rescue Committee

1.11. Other SAR Committees

1.12. SAR Functions covered by this Framework

1.13. SAR Functions Not covered by this Framework

1.14. Charging for SAR services

1.15. Overarching Principles

1.16. Coordination of Operations

1.17. Marine Operations Centre, Rescue Coordination Centres and Sub Centres

1.18. SAR Management

1.19. SAR Mission Coordination

1.20. On Scene Coordinator

1.21. Incident Manager

1.22. Mass Rescue Incidents



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1.23. Aviation incidents in the marine environment

1.24. Media

Appendix 1.1 Irish Search & Rescue Region (SRR)

Appendix 1.2 Irish SRR Divisions Appendix 1.3 Irish EEZ (Pollution Responsibility Zone)

Part 2

2.0 Irish Search And Rescue Organisation

2.1 Irish Coast Guard 2.2 SAR Helicopters

2.3 Irish Aviation Authority

2.4 An Garda Síochána

2.5 Royal National Lifeboat Institution

2.6 Community Rescue Boats of Ireland

2.7 Irish Mountain Rescue Association

2.8 Civil Defence

2.9 Dublin Fire Brigade

2.10 Health Service Executive

2.11 Harbour Authorities

2.12 Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU)

2.13 Irish Cave Rescue Organisation 2.14 Lifeguards 2.15 Additional Resources

2.16 Craft of Convenience 2.17 Legislation

2.18 List of Liaison Agreements / Memoranda of Understanding



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2.19 Glossary of Abbreviations 2.20 Glossary of Terms

Appendix 2.1 IRCG Communications Network Appendix 2.2 IRCG Coastal Units Appendix 2.3 Helicopter, RNLI & CRBI Stations Appendix 2.4 On Call and response structure Appendix 2.5 Garda Divisional Areas Appendix 2.6 Map of Mountain Rescue Teams Appendix 2.7 DF/IRCG SLA’s Schedule of Services



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IRISH NATIONAL MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE FRAMEWORK

Amendments record Sheet This is a controlled document. IRCG HQ will issue amendments as approved under signature by the Director of the Irish Coast Guard. The SAR Operations Manager, Irish Coast Guard will maintain the original and true draft. Date

Section

Page No.

Summary of Changes



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Part One

Irish Maritime Search and Rescue Framework



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Irish National Maritime Search and Rescue Framework

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.1.1 Search and Rescue (SAR) comprises the search for and provision of aid to persons who are, or are believed to be in imminent danger of loss of life. The two operations – search and rescue – may take many forms, depending on whether they are both required or not, on the size and complexity of the operation and on the available staff and facilities. Search and rescue does not include salvage or the saving of property except where the action is indivisible from that of safeguarding life.

1.1.2 The purpose of this ‘National Maritime SAR Framework’ is to provide a simple

and clear guidance document for Irish Marine Search and Rescue (SAR) and is divided into the Framework and the Organisation of maritime SAR in Ireland at Part one. This framework section provides the overarching principles, scope and purpose of the Framework and should be read in conjunction with all IRCG operational memoranda and inter-service agreements. Maritime SAR covers emergency events occurring in the Irish Search and Rescue Region up to the high water mark, within ports as applicable and on the inland waterways as agreed with An Garda Síochána. Part two provides details of the organisation of search and rescue in Ireland.

1.1.3 Where applicable this Framework encompasses the national aviation SAR

Framework where the aircraft frame lands into the sea or a major inland lake. 1.1.4 The requirement for this Framework is encompassed in the International

Convention on Maritime SAR 1979, as amended, Annex Chapter 2.1 and by the International Aviation and Maritime SAR Manual published jointly by the ICAO and IMO.

1.1.5 Every state recognises the great importance of saving lives and the need to be

directly involved in rendering aeronautical and maritime search and rescue (SAR) services to persons in distress. The most effective and practical way of achieving this goal is for nation states to co-operate in a worldwide system of search and rescue so that wherever people travel, SAR services will be available if needed.

1.1.6 A basic practical and humanitarian characteristic of the global aspect of SAR is

that it eliminates the need for each state to provide SAR services for its own citizens wherever they travel worldwide. Instead the globe is divided into internationally agreed search and rescue regions (SRRs), each region with its own associated SAR services, which assist anyone in distress without regard to nationality, status or circumstances.

1.1.7 This National SAR Framework will provide guidance for the implementation of

a comprehensive set of standards and guidance that build on the base line established by the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue



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(IAMSAR) Manual. Both the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) publish the IAMSAR manual jointly.

1.1.8 In providing a search and rescue response, nothing in the content of the

Framework precludes properly qualified officers from using their initiative in providing a SAR response in circumstances where these procedures are judged to be inappropriate. In so doing, however, officers’ actions should conform as closely as possible to those instructions contained in the Framework and their SOP’s most closely pertinent to the circumstances and keep all other parties involved informed. When developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) at the organisational level, care should be taken to ensure that procedures are written in accordance with the National SAR Framework.

1.2 INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS

1.2.1 The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) coordinate, on a global basis, member States’ efforts to provide search and rescue (SAR) services. Briefly, the goal of ICAO and IMO is to provide an effective worldwide system, so that wherever people sail or fly, SAR services will be available if needed. The overall approach a State takes in establishing, providing and improving SAR services is affected by the fact that these efforts are an integral part of a global SAR system.

1.2.2 The objectives of the Maritime Search and Rescue Convention are to standardise

SAR worldwide, facilitate intergovernmental direct contact, ensure co-operation between surface and air SAR units, and provide guidance where needed for development of national SAR services.

1.2.3 The Irish National SAR Framework is derived from the ratification by the

Government of Ireland to the Convention on the High Seas (1958), the Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) (1974), the Maritime Search and Rescue Convention (1979 ratification published by the IMO 29.11.93), the International Convention on Civil Aviation (Chicago 1944), SI 171 and 172 of 1995 in respect of aviation SAR and by Government decision. In Ireland the Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act, 1993. Furthermore Ireland has ratified International Conventions on the law relating to vessels in distress.

1.2.4 This Framework deals exclusively with search and rescue in the Maritime

domain. 1.2.5 Search and rescue services are defined as the performance of distress

monitoring, communication, coordination and search and rescue functions, including provision of medical advice, initial medical assistance and medical evacuation, through the use of public and private resources, including cooperating aircraft, vessels and other craft and installation



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1.3 PURPOSE

1.3.1 As an island nation, the sea is very important to Ireland, comprising a marine territory of approximately 350,000 square miles, which has strategic economic, social and environmental value for the Nation. The sea, for all its riches and potential for development, can be one of the most hostile and dangerous environments on the planet.

1.3.2 The SAR Framework further aims to support the safe use of inland waterways in

Ireland in its wide range of activities, from inland shipping to pleasure cruising, towpath walking and other recreational use.

1.3.3 The Irish National Maritime Search and Rescue Framework is intended to

provide an overall context within which responsible parties can work together to provide effective and efficient maritime and aeronautical SAR services, which meet domestic needs and comply with International commitments and to document related national policies. Furthermore detailed plans and arrangements for Irish National SAR are contained in Liaison Agreements and Memorandum of Understandings with different Organisations, Departments of State, and Official or volunteer Groups and in Coast Guard Operational Memoranda.

1.4 SCOPE

1.4.1 This Framework is not intended to conflict in any way with SAR responsibilities agreed by contracting states of the Convention on Civil Aviation, the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue or other appropriate international instruments to which Ireland is, or may become a party.

1.4.2 No provisions of this Framework are to be construed in such a way as to

contravene responsibilities and authorities of any participant as defined by statutes, executive orders or international agreements or of established responsibilities of other agencies and organisations that regularly assist persons and property in distress.

1.4.3 Implementing guidance for the execution of this Framework is provided in the

International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR Manual).

1.5 OBJECTIVES

1.5.1 To provide a national Framework for co-ordinating maritime, and where appropriate Aviation SAR services, which will meet domestic needs and comply with International obligations.

1.5.2 To set down overall priorities and performance expectations for search

and rescue services in Ireland.

1.5.3. To provide a National Marine, and where appropriate Aviation Search and Rescue planning framework.



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1.5.4 To determine what equipment compatibilities should exist amongst and between SAR service providers.

1.5.5 Provide an overall Framework for: • Co-ordination of SAR operations. • The effective use of all available SAR resources. • Mutual assistance between national and international agencies. • Continue efforts to improve such cooperation and services. • Integration of available SAR resources into a cooperative network for the

greater protection of life and to ensure greater efficiency and economy. • To provide national guidance for development of SAR related systems. • Assist determination of what equipment compatibilities should exist amongst

and between SAR service providers. • To have as a primary concept, cooperation for overall and continual

development and improvement of SAR services. • The ability to account for all SAR operations up to and including providing

initial assistance to survivors (food, clothing medical etc) and delivering them to a place of safety.

1.6 PARTICIPANTS The participants to this Framework: -

1.6.1 The Department of Transport (DoT) exercises overarching responsibility for maritime and aviation SAR services and for maritime and aviation safety through its Divisions, agencies, the IAA, airport, port and harbour authorities.

1.6.2 The Irish Coast Guard, as a Division of DoT, has responsibility for the

24/7/365 coordination of maritime SAR emergency response at sea and along the coasts and cliffs of Ireland, and on major inland lakes. It maintains a its Coast Guard national Maritime Operations Centre (MOC) incorporating Irelands Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) at Dublin and Marine Rescue Sub-Centres (MRSC) at Malin Head in Co Donegal and Valentia Island in County Kerry. It has a comprehensive Marine Communications Network covering Irish offshore and inland waters. It maintains a network of strategically located Coastal Units equipped to deal with local marine emergencies.

1.6.3 The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is a semi state agency responsible to the

DoT for the provision of Air Traffic Services including Air Traffic Control and the coordination of Aeronautical SAR emergency response. The IAA maintains an Aviation Rescue Co-ordination Centre (ARCC) at Shannon Airport and an Aviation Rescue Sub-Centre (ARSC) at Dublin Airport. The Safety Regulation Division of the IAA is the body responsible for the regulation and oversight of aircraft operations, including aeronautical Search and Rescue, within the State.

1.6.4 The Department of Defence through the Irish Air Corps and the Irish Naval

Service provide resources in support of the Irish Coast Guard’s SAR emergency response capability.



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1.6.5 The Department of Justice through the Garda Síochána and its command

infrastructure coordinates land based SAR operations in each Garda Division. 1.6.6 Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is a voluntary organisation

dedicated to the purpose of promoting the saving lives at sea (and in certain cases on inland waters). The RNLI provides and maintains a fleet of inshore and all weather lifeboats at strategic locations in Ireland which are declared to the Irish Coast Guard as Search & Rescue Units (SRU’s).

1.6.7 The Fire Services and Planning Directorate in its role as Chair of the National

Steering Group on Major Emergency Planning exercises an role in the development of land based emergency management and response.

1.6.8 The HSE through Medico Cork in Cork University Hospital provides Irelands

24/7 Radio Medical Advice Service to seafarers through the Coast Guard radio network to sick or injured seafarers on a 24-hour basis. The HSE also provide a Marine Ambulance Response Team for major emergencies. If medical advice requires the casualty to be taken off the vessel then the MRCC/MRSC providing the link will arrange for the casualty to be transported from the vessel to a hospital.

1.6.9 The Irish Mountain Rescue Association (IMRA) is an all Ireland volunteer

organisation comprising twelve specialist teams trained in the provision of mountain rescue services throughout Ireland.

1.6.10 The Irish Cave Rescue Organisation (ICRO) is a volunteer organisation

providing Cave rescue services and covers the whole Island of Ireland. 1.6.11 Local Authorities of Ireland through the provision of Lifeguard services at

certain times of the year.

1.6.12 The Harbour Masters of the ports and harbours established under Acts of the Oireachtas, through being responsible for the safety of vessels and persons thereon within the ports and harbours.

1.6.13 Irish Water Safety has a statutory responsibility for lifeguards and standards

under S.I. No 389 of 2006. It states “The Body shall provide the following services; the promotion and efficiency and standardisation of the Lifeguard Service; the establishment of national standards for lifeguards, lifesaving and water safety,” this among other responsibilities.

1.6.14 The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland provides advice and assistance

in the event of a maritime SAR incident involving nuclear materials. 1.6.15 Dublin Fire Brigade maintains a team of offshore Fire Fighters trained to fight

fires on board vessels at sea. 1.6.16 Community Rescue Boats of Ireland (CRBI) is a scheme for organising

community based volunteer inshore rescue boats at locations around the coast and on the inland locations for Ireland. These Rescue Boats are declared to the Irish Coast Guard as SRU’s subject to satisfactory assessment. Irish Water



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Safety has a responsibility for these services for refund of tax (No 18) Order 1985 – Department of Finance

1.6.17 The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), with its close co-operation

and mutual agreement provide assistance as may be required. Her Majesty’s Coastguard (HMCG) is a constituent part of the MCA.

1.6.18 The Civil Defence objective is to promote, develop and maintain Civil

Defence as an effective volunteer based professional organisation providing emergency response and community support services.

1.6.19 The Commissioners of Irish Lights are the General Lighthouse Authority for

Ireland. The Commissioners have a Service Level Agreement with IRCG which allows IRCG to avail of CIL assets including ILV Granuaile and Helicopter refuelling facilities

1.6.20 Each Airport is required as part of its IAA licence to have an emergency

response plan and sufficient resources. Additional measures are provided for airports close to water.

1.6.21 The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) of the Department of Transport is

responsible for the investigation of aviation accidents that occur in the State of Ireland.

1.7 IRISH SEARCH AND RESCUE REGION (IRSRR)

1.7.1 The Irish Search and Rescue Region (IRSRR) is established in co-operation with neighbouring nations and is internationally recognised and described in relevant documents of IMO (IMO SAR plan) and ICAO (Regional Air Navigation plans). The Irish maritime and aeronautical SRR boundaries are coincident with the Shannon Flight Information Region (FIR) determined by ICAO.

1.7.2 The Irish SRR is contiguous with the UK SRR and in fact is bounded on all sides

by the UK region. Mutual co-operation and assistance will be provided and the existence of SRR Limits should not be viewed as a basis to restrict, delay or limit in any way, prompt and efficient action to relieve distress situations.

1.7.3 Within the boundaries of the Irish SRR, Ireland accepts primary responsibility

for co-ordinating and providing SAR services.

1.7.5 For maritime SAR co-ordination, the Irish SRR is subdivided into three divisions The internal boundaries are outlined in Appendix 2.1 along with each associated co-ordination centre at MRCC Dublin, MRSC Valentia and MRSC Malin Head at Appendix 1.2.

1.7.6 For pollution, ship casualty and environmental response the Irish Coast Guard has responsibility within the Irish EEZ as shown in Appendix 1.3. It is common practice that if a SAR incident occurs in the Irish EEZ coordination may be transferred to IRCG Coordination from the UK Coastguard.



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1.8 DIVISION OF SAR RESPONSIBILITIES WITHIN THE IRISH SRR

1.8.1 Maritime SAR

Within the Department of Transport (DoT), which has overall responsibility as Lead Government Department for maritime and aviation SAR. Primary responsibility has been delegated for Marine Emergency Management within Irelands various responsibility Regions to the Irish Coast Guard. The Coast Guard, co-ordinates maritime SAR services within the Irish SRR and will lead and co-ordinate national participation in the SAR and safety related initiatives of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

1.8.2 Inland SAR

In general An Garda Síochána is responsible for land based SAR. The Irish

Coast Guard in co-operation with An Garda Síochána, co-ordinates SAR services on inland lakes and rivers. An Garda Síochána may hand over a SAR incident on the inland waterways for Coast Guard coordination if appropriate. The Garda Síochána is responsible for mountain search and rescue co-ordination in Ireland. The Defence Forces, in aid to the civil authority or power, may engage in SAR services on land, mountains, inland lakes or rivers.

1.8.3 Aviation SAR

The Department of Transport (DoT) while retaining overall responsibility for

Aviation SAR has determined that the Irish Aviation Authority shall operate the ARCC requirements of ICAO Annex 12. The Safety Regulation Division of the IAA is the body responsible for the regulation and oversight of aircraft operations, including aeronautical Search and Rescue, within the State.

1.9 THE IRISH AERONAUTICAL & MARITIME EMERGENCY ADVISORY COMMITTEE (IAMEAC)

1.9.1 The Irish Aeronautical & Maritime Emergency Advisory Committee, which is

based on the requirements of a national committee required by IAMSAR, is an advisory group to the Minister for Transport on maritime and aviation SAR emergencies and is chaired by the Director of the Irish Coast Guard and consists of senior officers from maritime, aviation and land based emergency services as follows:

Assistant Director IRCG, General Officer Commanding the Air Corps,

Manager General Aviation Standards of the Irish Aviation Authority, Manager Shannon ARCC, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Service, Assistant Commissioner Garda Síochána HQ, Director of Fire Services and Emergency Planning Dept. of Environment HLG, A/National Director of the Ambulance Service, HSE, RNLI Director of Operations and the Department of Transport.

IAMEAC acts as an advisory service to the Minister and inter alia may advise on plans, resources, equipment and the efficiency and effectiveness of maritime and aviation SAR services.



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1.9.2 The Terms of Reference of IAMEAC require it to:

• Ensure that an appropriately trained and resourced aviation and maritime emergency management team, reflecting the Committee members mandates1, can assemble as a crisis management committee at the IRCG marine emergency room2 during major emergencies to advise the Director and/or the Minister on the appropriate response.

• Provide a standing national forum for co-ordination of administrative and operational SAR and emergency management matters;

• Provide an interface with other national and international organisations involved with the provision of emergency services;

• Oversee the National Maritime and Aviation SAR Framework for Ireland, and develop and maintain a national SAR Manual(s);

• Promote effective use of all available facilities for SAR; • Serve as a co-operative forum to exchange information and develop positions

and policies of interest to more than one Party to the Framework; • Promote close co-operation and co-ordination between civilian and military

authorities and organisations for the provision of effective emergency services;

• Improve co-operation among aeronautical, maritime and land SAR communities for the provision of effective emergency services; and

• Determine other ways to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of SAR services within the State and to standardise SAR procedures and equipment where practicable

1.10 IRISH MARINE SEARCH AND RESCUE COMMITTEE (IMSARC) 1.10.1 IMSARC was established in 1978 as a consultative committee whose function is:

• to keep under review Marine SAR in Ireland, and to make recommendations for any improvements considered necessary.

• to consider the implication of any changes. • to make recommendations on how the users can take action to improve the

prospect of successful SAR. • The committee also provides membership of many of the committees and

working groups of the Department of Transport. 1.10.2 The membership of the committee is drawn from the users and providers of

SAR and from the Department of Transport.

1.11 OTHER SAR COMMITTEES 1.11.2 The Aviation Forum which is tasked with reviewing technical and operational

aspects of marine emergency and training missions involving helicopter assets; Exchanging information on new techniques and equipment; highlight and report on areas of specific joint operational problems to IMSARC; and exploring areas of commonality and share information on landing sites, Fuelling arrangements etc.

1 Whilst retaining individual organisations distinct roles and chains of authority and command 2 A large-scale aeronautical or maritime incident may require the activation of the NECC and the Department of Transport as Lead Government Department.



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1.11.3 The Marine Safety Working Group (MSWG), which has responsibility for the

promotion of marine and inland water safety awareness produces public safety advice, booklets and posters entitled "Safety on the Water". The aim of the “Marine Safety Working Group” is “To use its collective expertise and experience to create and communicate marine safety information and messages to endeavor to reduce accidents and to prevent the loss of life in Irish Waters”. Its objectives are • To establish strong working relationships with other National and Local

Organisations to create/promote accident prevention programmes • To establish cause and trends in accidents at sea • To develop accident prevention programmes • To measure effectiveness of prevention programmes • To provide a coordinated approach to the dissemination of safety information

in response to individual enquiries

1.11.4 The Irish Sea Working Group (ISWG) that deals with international plans and exercises within the Irish Sea area and its northern and southern approaches. This Committee has a rotating Chair.

1.11.5 The Coast Guard chairs a number of other committees that advise and assist the

Minister in managing search and rescue in Ireland. These Committees include: • The Coastal Unit Advisory Group (CUAG) and Technical Commissions • Community Rescue Boats of Ireland (CRBI) Committee and Technical

Commissions • The National Coordinating Committee on Mountain and Cave Rescue

(NCCMCR) 1.12 FUNCTIONS COVERED BY THIS FRAMEWORK

1.12.1 The efficient operation of the Maritime components of the co-ordinated SAR system.

1.12.2 The provision of SAR services for aircraft at the request of the IAA or An

Garda Síochána. 1.12.3 The establishment, maintenance and operation of a maritime operations centre

and maritime rescue co-ordination centres capable of adequately discharging the responsibilities for the efficient detection, co-ordination and rescue of persons in distress or potentially in distress and that have adequate and resilient means of communications, equipment and properly trained and resourced staff.

1.12.4 The provision of assistance to the relevant authorities in the event of natural

disasters. 1.13 FUNCTIONS NOT COVERED BY THIS FRAMEWORK

1.13.1 Air Ambulance service not resulting from maritime or aeronautical SAR

operations.



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1.13.2 Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) 1.13.3 Civil Disturbance, insurrection, terrorist or other emergencies, which endanger

citizens or property. 1.13.4 Salvage and aircraft recovery operations. 1.13.5 Pollution operations.

1.13.6 Ship Casualty incidents where live is not at risk.

1.14 CHARGING FOR SAR SERVICES

1.14.1 Each Participant will fund its own activities in relation to this Framework unless otherwise arranged by the Participants in advance, and will not allow a matter of reimbursement of cost to delay response to any person in danger or distress.

1.14.2 The Participants agree that the SAR services provided to persons in danger or

distress will be without subsequent cost-recovery from the person(s) assisted. In certain circumstances cost recovery may be appropriate if the service extends beyond SAR; for example if a Harbour Authority, following on from a place of refuge request, incurs clean-up costs.

1.14.3 In accordance with customary international law, when one-nation requests help

from another nation to assist persons in danger or distress, if such help is provided, it will be done voluntarily, and the Irish Authorities will neither request nor pay reimbursement of cost for such assistance.

1.15 OVERARCHING PRINCIPLES

1.15.1 All SAR personnel should be generally familiar with the International Conventions on Maritime Search and Rescue of the IMO, the Convention of International Civil Aviation Annex 12 of ICAO, and the joint ICAO – IMO IAMSAR Manual.

1.15.2 The SAR principles and procedures of relevant customary international law and

international conventions and the IAMSAR Manual, will serve as the framework for co-ordination of any SAR operations.

1.15.3 Assistance will always be provided to person(s) in distress without regard to

their nationality, status or circumstances. 1.15.4 Close co-operation will be established between services and organisations,

which may support improvements in lifesaving.

1.16 CO-ORDINATION OF OPERATIONS



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1.16.1 Each participant responsible for operations under this Framework will keep information readily available on the status and availability of key SAR facilities.

1.16.2 Each participant will promptly respond to requests for assistance when required. 1.16.3 The Coast Guard, in consultation and approval from the Department of Foreign

Affairs, may grant permission for military SAR facilities from other countries entry into Ireland when required. Such permission may include over-flight or landing of SAR aircraft for fuelling, medical or other appropriate operational support. The Defence Forces will be advised of Foreign Military Aircraft or Naval Movements – especially when aircraft are landing at unsecured sites.

1.16.4 The Coast Guard may grant permission for non-military SAR facilities from

other countries, entry into Ireland when required and will thereafter advise the Department of Foreign Affairs as necessary. Such entry may include over-flight or landing of SAR aircraft, for fuelling, medical or other appropriate operational support.

1.16.5 No provision of this Framework is to be construed as an obstruction to prompt

and efficient action to relieve distress whenever and wherever found. 1.16.6 SAR Co-ordinators shall arrange for the receipt of distress alerts originating

within the Irish SRR, and ensure that the MRCC/MRSC can communicate with the persons in distress, and with the SAR facilities.

1.16.7 To optimise delivery of efficient and effective services, all available resources

will be used for SAR. 1.16.8 On-scene coordination may be delegated to any appropriate unit participating in

a particular incident, under the cognisance of the incident SMC. 1.16.9 The suspension or termination of operations will be the responsibility of the co-

ordinating MRCC/MRSC when it is decided that all reasonable hope of rescuing survivors or victims has passed.

1.16.10The Framework should be exercised at national SAR exercises to test

organisations ability to respond, and local SAR exercises will provide familiarity with elements of the Framework.

1.17 MARINE OPERATIONS CENTRE, RESCUE COORDINATION CENTRES AND SUB CENTRES

1.17.1 MRCC Dublin is the national rescue coordination centre for the Irish Search &

Rescue Region. MRCC Dublin is an integral part of the Coast Guards national Marine Operations Centre (MOC) which, as well as providing maritime search and rescue response services, is also the centre which co-ordinates the response to marine casualty incidents within the Irish EEZ and provides a variety of other services listed in the glossary. MRSC Valentia and MRSC Malin Head are



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Divisional 24/7 Centres coordinating SAR response in their areas of responsibility (AOR).

1.17.2 The Marine Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) Valentia is the contact point for

routine operational matters in the area between Ballycotton and Clifden. MRSC Malin Head is the contact point for routine operational matters in the area between Clifden and Lough Foyle. MRCC Dublin is the contact point for routine operational matters in the area between Carlingford Lough and Ballycotton.

1.17.3 Each MRCC/MRSC broadcasts Maritime Safety Information (MSI) on VHF

and, in some cases, MF radio in accordance with published schedules. MSI includes UK Hydrographic Office navigational warnings, Irish marine Notices, Gale Warnings, Shipping Forecasts, Local Inshore Forecasts, Strong Wind Warnings and Small Craft Warnings as issued by the Irish Meteorological Office. The Coast Guard is also responsible for NAVTEX broadcasts.

1.17.4 The Centres are connected to their own communications network of 19 VHF

sites, MF & HF and digital paging system. The MRCC/SC organisation is based upon a continuous communications watch on VHF, VHFDSC, MF and MFDSC, which provides radio coverage of Irish coastal and offshore waters out to 150+ nautical miles. This communications watch includes a distress watch on the international VHF & MF distress frequency. In addition to radio and satellite communications, MRCC/MRSC’s keep a constant emergency telephone watch. MOC Dublin acts as a single point of contact for satellite-derived alerts.

1.18 SAR MANAGEMENT

1.18.1 There are three levels of management within the SAR system. Overall management by SAR Authorities, management of individual SAR incidents by SAR mission coordinators (SMCs), and direction of SAR activities at an incident by on-scene coordinators (OSC’s) specifically designated by the SMC. This section outlines, in general terms, the management and coordination actions required when a decision is made to implement procedures in prosecuting a SAR.

1.18.2 Once it is decided to proceed with the action, plans should be enacted for the

commencement of search activity with a minimum of delay. Coincident with progressing search activity, is the development of a rescue plan and obtaining and deploying rescue resources to minimise time between survivors' location and their recovery to a place of safety.

1.18.3 SAR Authority

1.18.3.1 A SAR Authority is the authority within a national Administration with

overall responsibility for establishing and providing SAR services and ensuring that planning for those services is properly coordinated. The national SAR authority in Ireland is the Irish Coast Guard in respect of maritime SAR and the IAA in respect of aviation SAR. The SAR Authority



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takes on the roles of the SAR Coordinator as described in the IAMSAR Manual.

1.18.3.2 A SAR Authority shall ensure that a SAR operation can be promptly

initiated and prosecuted with the efficient use of available SAR resources, until rescue has been completed or until chance of success is no longer a reasonable possibility. An operation may thereafter continue if appropriate to effect recovery of deceased persons.

1.18.3.3 The Coast Guard on behalf of the Department of Transport has the

overall responsibility for establishing, staffing, equipping and managing the SAR system, including providing appropriate legal and funding support, establishing RCC’s, providing or arranging for SAR assets, coordinating SAR training and developing SAR policies. The SAR authority, where applicable, shall: • establish a Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) to coordinate all

participating search and rescue assets and facilities; • ensure that the RCC conforms to the SAR procedures contained in this

manual or local SOPs and manuals; • establish close liaison and formulate agreements with other authorities

and organisations having SAR potential; • establish liaison with SAR authorities of adjacent areas to ensure mutual

cooperation and coordination in combined operations; • ensure that a comprehensive and current SAR Framework is prepared

and distributed; • establish and supervise communication facilities and assign SAR

frequencies from those authorised to assets designated for SAR tasks; • establish communications with adjoining RCC’s and appropriate

organisations to ensure two-way alerting and dissemination of SAR information;

• ensure immediate action is taken to provide assistance, advising the appropriate SAR authorities and passing all information received concerning the distress incident and any action taken;

• ensure that the operating authority or agency of any craft, aviation asset or land party in need of assistance has been advised of initial actions taken, and they are kept informed of all pertinent developments;

• designate an SMC for a specific SAR incident; • ensure that each incident is prosecuted until assistance is no longer

necessary, rescue has been completed or chance of success is no longer a reasonable possibility;

• ensure that if the scope of the operation exceeds the authority’s capacity to plan and execute the operation, it shall seek advice and assistance from, or by mutual agreement, hand over coordination, to an appropriate authority;

• maintain and preserve adequate records; and • develop new and improved techniques and procedures.

1.19 SAR MISSION COORDINATION



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1.19.1 The staff of a RCC performs duties in the conduct of search and rescue events and in addition they have responsibility for maintaining the RCC in a continuous state of preparedness. The RCC staff consists of personnel who are experienced and/or trained in SAR operations. When a period of heavy activity is anticipated or during major SAR incidents, the regular staff may be supplemented as required or workload may be shared between Coordination Centres. Each centre will be able to link landline or marine communications in and out of the Tetra network.

1.19.2 Each SAR operation is carried out under the coordination of a SAR Mission

Coordinator (SMC) designated for the purpose by the Coast Guard. The SMC is responsible for efficiently prosecuting a SAR incident using the assets available. The SMC is responsible for all stages of the SAR system. Their responsibilities include the prompt dispatch of appropriate and adequate SAR assets and the prosecution of SAR operations until rescue has been completed, or chance of success is no longer a reasonable possibility. The SMC is responsible for ensuring that the following duties are carried out depending on the SAR incident and local circumstances:

• Obtaining and evaluating all information pertaining to the incident,

including emergency equipment carried by the person or craft in distress. • Classifying the SAR incident into the appropriate emergency phase

(Uncertainty, Alert/Urgency, or Distress). • Alerting appropriate SAR assets and SAR organisations that may be of

assistance during the incident. • Conducting a risk assessment. • Dispatching initial SAR Units if situation warrants. • Conducting initial communications checks. If unsuccessful, making an

extended communications search to obtain additional information on the incident, personnel involved and equipment carried by the vessel, aircraft or party in distress.

• Calculating the search area. Preparing optimum plans and promulgating attainable plans;

• Obtaining past/present/forecast weather, drift information and oceanographic conditions if applicable

• Providing for SAR crew briefing, dispatching of appropriate SRU’s, or other assets.

• Organising logistical support for all SAR assets including fuel, food and accommodation, through to the completion of the incident.

• Making arrangements for appropriate communications. • Maintaining a continuous, chronological plot showing sighting and hearing

reports, DF bearings, air plot, radar plot, fixes, reports of debris, areas searched or not searched and other intelligence.

• Maintaining a continuous, chronological record or log of the search effort, including actions taken in relation to intelligence, SRU’s employed, sorties, hours flown/underway, sightings, leads, results obtained, message traffic, briefing notes, telephone calls, daily evaluation of progress and probability of detection.

• Initiating marine distress broadcasts or marine information broadcasts and initiating the alerting of enroute aircraft.

• Arranging communication schedules when and if needed.



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• Requesting additional SAR assets, as required. • Exercising overall coordination of SAR assets. • Maintaining liaison with the next of kin, owner, agent or management of the

missing craft or persons. • Liaise, and brief as appropriate, the Minister for Transport and the

Government Information Service. • Keeping all authorities involved fully advised of SAR incident progress

with timely and regular situation reports (SITREPs). • Making recommendations and decisions in relation to the continuation or

suspension of searches. • Issuing news media releases on the progress of incidents in accordance with

the procedures and policies. • Providing debriefs of SRU’s, cancel alerts, release SAR assets and

organisations involved, and issuing the final SITREP to all concerned. • Acting as required coping with any unique, unusual or changing

circumstances of the emergency.

1.19.3 Where a maritime incident requires an aviation response, the Coast Guard shall liaise directly with agencies that may supply such resources. IRCG’s MRCC/SC shall be responsible for the provision of such services as fuelling, accommodation, security and any such additional services. Where aviation resources are required in response to an aviation incident, the IAA’s RCC shall be responsible for the provision of resources and any such support services as are required. Where airport facilities for marine related incidents are required outside the normal hours of availability of such facilities, MRCC/SC shall be responsible for the call-out of such services as required.

1.20 ON SCENE COORDINATOR

1.20.1 When a number of SAR assets are working together on the same SAR mission in the same location, there may be an advantage if one unit is assigned to coordinate the activities of all participating assets. The SMC will designate this role to a On Scene Coordinator (OSC – previously called On Scene Commander), who may be the person in charge of a ship or aircraft participating in the search or someone at another nearby facility in a position to handle OSC duties. The OSC should be the most capable person available, taking into consideration SAR training; communications capabilities of the asset; and the length of time that the asset the OSC is aboard can stay in the search area. An OSC (sea) and/or OSC (shore) may be appointed by the SMC if required for a major incident. The OSC (shore) is usually the Coast Guard Incident Manager/Controller. Frequent changes in the OSC should be avoided. Duties that the SMC may assign to the OSC, depending on needs and qualifications include:

• assuming operational coordination of all SAR facilities on scene; • receiving the search action plan from the SMC; • modifying the search action plan based on prevailing environmental

conditions and keeping the SMC advised of any changes to the plan (in consultation with the SMC when practicable);

• providing relevant information to the other SAR assets;



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• implementing the search and rescue plan where required; • monitoring the performance of other assets participating in the search; • developing and implementing the rescue plan (when needed); • providing regular Sitreps to the SMC; • In the case of aviation accidents liaising with the AAIU Investigator In Charge (IIC). • In the case of maritime accidents liaising with the MCIB Investigator assigned.

1.21 INCIDENT MANAGER

1.21.1 After considering how best to exercise control over SAR assets in remote sectors of an SRR or where communications, administrative or political factors impact on operational efficiency, a SMC may recommend to management to establish a Coast Guard Incident Management Centre (IMC) close to the incident. The degree of delegation attributed to the IMC and its actual responsibilities shall be at IRCG SAR Operations Managers or on call Officers discretion, bearing in mind the need for:

• a clear understanding of respective responsibilities; • an optimum response to the operational and administrative features of the

current situation e.g.: location of search area and availability of staff. • In the case of aviation accidents assisting and advising the AAIU IIC in the

planning and execution of the aircraft wreckage recovery

1.21.2 An orange and white chequered vest will identify the Coast Guard Incident Manager. The functions of an IM throughout a particular SAR action shall be delegated by the SMC and may include:

• Planning of operations and responsibility to brief and debrief search crews

close to the search area; • Establishment of a base; • coordinating, as required, the provision of safety, survival and SAR

equipment to participating SAR assets; • collation of information and provision of logistical support; • liaison with relatives, family, media, volunteers and the public, Gardai and

emergency services; • supervising the allocation of observers, and ensuring they obtain adequate

rest; • making arrangements for food, accommodation and transport for search

crews and observers when required • Maintaining full records for the incident file.

1.22 MASS RESCUE INCIDENTS

1.22.1 Passenger ships of more than 12 passengers shall have onboard a plan for

cooperation with appropriate SAR Services in the event of an emergency. The plan will be developed in cooperation between the ship, the Company and the SAR service. The plan will include provision for periodic exercises to be



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undertaken to test its effectiveness. The plan shall be based on the IMO Guidelines as contained in Chapter V Regulation 7.3.

1.22.2 A mass rescue operation incident is one where immediate assistance is required

for a large number of persons in distress. It is likely that normally available resources will be inadequate to deal with the response if the numbers involved are large. The nature of such incidents can differ greatly; they could occur on land or sea and involve a wide variety of response agencies. It could be floods, fire, building collapse, aircraft accident, terrorist activity, and collision. If a mass rescue situation develops at sea, another dimension is added.

1.22.3 It is reasonable to expect that all casualties recovered in a marine mass rescue

operation will require some form of medical or personal attention once they are landed ashore due to the significance/drama of the event.

1.22.4 Although rare occurrences, the potential is always present in areas where large

numbers of persons travel by sea or air. The Ireland-UK-France air and sea routes, aircraft crossing the North Atlantic and routing overhead Irish airspace and, some passenger ferries operating to offshore islands and in other areas around the Irish coast could qualify in this regard.

1.22.5 The risk for disaster on busy routes can come from bad weather and sea

conditions, collision, engine or structural failure and in recent years from terrorism. The Air India Boeing 747crash off the west coast of Ireland and the passenger ferry Estonia sinking in the Baltic are examples of such disasters.

1.22.6 The response to an incident such as this in the Ireland/UK SAR area would

involve all available declared and additional SAR resources along with vessels of opportunity at sea. It could also involve SAR resources from other European countries.

1.22.7 Existing marine emergency plans and operational procedures cater for the

tasking and co-ordination of the response to marine emergencies. In a major marine emergency situation, perhaps involving a large passenger vessel with up to 2,000 persons or more on board, in bad weather conditions, it is likely that the system will overload. This is particularly so with a prolonged incident response taking place over a number of days. Resource exhaustion, staff shortages in all areas, the interface between sea and land, communications system, hospital bed availability etc will be factors for detailed attention in major emergency plans.

1.22.8 There will be very high volumes of communications at many levels in a mass

rescue operation. Radio communications between co-ordination centres and search and rescue units, on-scene with the various assets air and sea, phone communications, Ire/UK, MOC/MRSC, Harbours & Ports, inter agency, Hospitals, Ambulance, Fire Service, Police/Garda, Air Traffic Control, families of passengers and crew, press, etc. Communications systems may become overloaded.

1.22.9 Unless some catastrophic failure has occurred on a passenger vessel, or any

other surface vessel, it is generally best practice to remain on board until rescued. Abandoning passengers to liferafts in bad weather/sea conditions can



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be a very difficult and risky procedure. Winching survivors, some may be injured or elderly and infirm, there may be young children, from a rolling/ pitching vessel can be equally risky and, a very slow process.

1.22.10Large aircraft ditching at sea, although very rare, will usually necessitate

immediate abandonment to liferafts and a mass rescue effort. 1.22.11Use of other vessels at sea can be an essential element of major emergency

response. They can be used as a base for SAR helicopter operations to reduce transit times when long distances are involved. They can accommodate large numbers of survivors depending of the type of vessel and can provide a lee to reduce the effects of wind and sea on the casualty. Large passengers vessels may be well suited for this purpose.

1.22.12The response to marine emergencies is co-ordinated by a SAR Mission Co-

ordinator (SMC) usually based at the nearest Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre or Sub-centre (MRCC or MRSC). On scene co-ordination of the SAR assets on scene is usually passed to a vessel or aircraft first to arrive at the location of the incident. The On-scene Co-ordinator (OSC) role is best suited to a unit that can remain on scene for longer times, have emergency trained crew, good communications equipment and possibly, treat casualties on board if necessary. Large passenger vessels can provide a stable platform for this purpose and could accommodate large numbers of survivors in certain situations. Naval vessels may be suited for this role also. The OSC will report directly to the SMC and implement the rescue plan. Fixed wing military top-cover aircraft suitably equipped and trained can provide co-ordination of air assets.

1.22.13The response to a major emergency involving mass rescue operations will be

multi-agency and perhaps international. Although the SMC remains in charge of the SAR co-ordination response, it is likely that in major emergencies, a Marine Crisis Management Team will be established to advise/liaise/administer/manage the emergency at a very senior level comprising of the relevant members of IAMEAC.

1.22.14The Department of Transport should keep under review the necessity of

activating a pan-Government response and the activation of the National Emergency Coordinating Committee.

1.22.15Assistance in the form of a Coast Guard Liaison Officer or Fire Service Officers

could be placed on board the casualty in certain situations. Fire Service personnel can provide fire fighting to assist the distressed vessel crew and can provide triage for injured persons prior to evacuation by lifeboat or helicopter. A specially trained marine fire response unit is based at Marino Fire Centre Dublin.

1.22.16The various aspects of major emergency response and mass rescue operations

require careful planning and regular exercise. The realistic exercise element is essential but very difficult to provide. SAR authorities will not normally encounter mass rescue operations since they are rare occurrences. Check lists designed for use in mass rescue operations can assist the SAR authorities with tasking records, weather/sea conditions, event times, vessel details, survivor



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number accounting and other issues should be used and amended following assessment during exercise scenarios. Shortcomings identified in mass rescue exercises should be remedied without delay.

1.22.17Although Ireland has a well developed and equipped SAR organisation, given

Ireland small size and therefore resource stock it is not expected that it could deal with a major marine incident involving mass rescue without assistance from its neighbours and from, where available, other vessels at sea.

1.23 AVIATION INCIDENTS IN THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT

1.23.1 During aviation SAR alerts and rescue co-ordination, communications will be affected electronically or verbally, between the ARCC/ARSC and MRCC/MRSC as appropriate. Shannon ARCC may delegate all or part of its responsibilities for rescue co-ordination (usually for incidents in the Dublin area), to it ARSC

1.23.2 The Department of Transport while retaining overall responsibility for Aviation

Search and Rescue Operations (ICAO Annex 12) has determined that the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) will operate the ARCC requirements of ICAO Annex 12 as an agent of the Department of Transport (Ref. ICAO Annex 12; S.I. No. 171 of 1995; S.I. No. 172 of 1995). The Aviation Search and Rescue Region covers an area coincident with the Shannon FIR/UIR

1.23.3 In the event of an aviation emergency over a maritime or littoral area,

ARCC/ARSC will co-ordinate the incident in close liaison with MRCC/MRSC. Should an aircraft force land in a maritime area, ARCC/ARSC will be responsible for determining the initial search area, but co-ordination will then transfer to MRCC/MRSC with continued close co-operation and back-up services from ARCC/ARSC.

1.23.4 In the event of an emergency meeting at the Marine Emergency Room,

requiring an aviation input, the Head of ARCC Shannon will decide on the appropriate representation. The AAIU may also consider a need for representation at this meeting where appropriate or where requested by the IRCG.

1.23.5 Routine communication shall take place by means of documentary, electronic

or verbal transfer. ARCC/ARSC will be included as information addressee in routine Sitreps issued by MRCC/MRSC where the incident may require or include an aviation response. The AAIU will be included as information addressee in routine Sitreps issued by MRCC/MRSC where the incident may require a response and investigation by the AAIU.

1.23.6 Where a maritime incident requires an aviation response, it is the

MRCC/MRSC who will liaise directly with agencies, which may supply such resources. MRCC/MRSC are responsible for the provision of refuelling, accommodation, security and any additional related services.



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1.23.7 Where aviation resources are required in response to an aviation incident, ARCC/ARSC is responsible for the provision of resources and any such support services as are required.

1.23.8 Where airport facilities for maritime related incidents are required outside the

normal hours of availability of such facilities, MRCC is responsible for the call-out of such services as required.

1.23.9 Maritime SAR services will remain, at all times, under the operational direction of IRCG. Where an aviation incident requires a maritime response ARCC/ARSC is responsible for requesting from MRCC/MRSC such maritime resources as may be available to MRCC/MRSC. There will be direct ARCC/ARSC/MRCC/MRSC contact for the purpose of agreement on the level of response required.

1.23.10 COSPAS/SARSAT

• The Mission Control Centre (MCC) at RCC Kinloss will advise MRCC of all relevant COSPAS/SARSAT reports related to Irish Airspace. ARCC/ARSC is responsible for initial co-ordination of Aeronautical COSPAS/SARSAT and ELT type incidents.

• Transfer of co-ordination to MRCC will take place when the location as calculated by merged solution as offshore or in the littoral area (i.e. coastal) and all aircraft in the vicinity have been accounted for.

• MRCC may transfer coordination to MRSC Malin Head or Valentia as appropriate.

• Subsequent to transfer of co-ordination MRCC or MRSC will keep ARCC informed of all Mission Control Centre (MCC) reports and Sitreps.

• ARCC/ARSC ensure relevant aircraft reports are communicated to MRCC.

1.23.11 Temporary Restricted Areas Established For Sar Purposes • ARCC/ARSC is the co-ordinating agency for establishment of Temporary

Restricted Areas when so required for SAR purposes or protection of aviation accident site from over flights of non-SAR related aviation assets.

• Clearance to enter, operate in or leave any of the above mentioned areas must to be obtained from the appropriate ATS units.

1.24 MEDIA

1.24.1 Search and Rescue operations for missing aircraft and vessels generate considerable publicity. By virtue of its nature, an RCC is a source of news and this is especially true during SAR incidents. The public should be informed during SAR operations, within the limits of confidentiality, of SAR actions. The potential benefits of early release of information include: • additional information from the public, leading to more effective use of

SAR resources; • fewer time-consuming requests from the news media; and • reduction in inaccurate public speculation about the SAR mission.

1.24.2 RCC staff should be governed by Department of Transport and IRCG’s public relations procedures when dealing with the media. It is important that a relationship between the media and an RCC is established such that:



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• the media's legitimate interest in an incident of concern and the public's “right to know” is respected;

• information reaching the public is factual and as complete as possible; • the operational functioning of an RCC is not prejudiced; and • benefit is derived from publicity of an incident and from media broadcasts

for information made at the request of SAR staff.

1.24.3 The early release of information will frequently aid in preventing time-consuming requests from news media concerning the operation. In cases where extensive searches are being conducted release of information to the public may bring important leads to the SMC.

1.24.4 News releases should be written following the time-proved format of who,

what, where, when, why and how. In drafting a release all six of these items should be covered in paragraph one. Subsequent paragraphs can provide additional detailed information concerning one or more of these questions. By drafting releases in this fashion the news media will be able to chop portions of the release in order to meet their space requirements without damaging the overall story.

1.24.5 The Press Office of the Department of Transport should keep the Government

Information Service advised as appropriate.

1.24.6 SAR officers and Officers of declared or coordinated resources or formally associated with a rescue operation shall not disclose to the media: • the names of any crew or other missing persons; • any personal judgments pertaining to any persons involved in the incident; • any comments on the judgment, experience or training of persons involved

in the incident; • degrading opinions on the conduct of the SAR operation or personalities • involved; • personal opinions and theories; • names of those associated with the search; • names of persons who have given information relating to the incident. • comment on behalf of other SAR Authorities or organisations.

1.24.7 Media releases may include the following information: • type of aircraft, factual detail of the flight, details of the vessel • reason for the SAR operation, e.g. aircraft/vessel overdue, report of

impending crash landing; weather situation; beacon activation • owner of the aircraft/vessel (subject to consent) • operator of the aircraft/vessel • number of missing persons • area being searched • number and types of assets engaged in the search; • arrangements for the search; • details of other authorities participating in the search; and/or • reinforce the positive aspects relating to safety and survival.



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IRISH SEARCH AND RESCUE REGION

Appendix 1.1

55 20N 006 55W - 55 25N 007 20W 55 20N 008 15W - 54 45N 009 00W 54 34N 010 00W - 54 00N 015 00W 51 00N 015 00W - 51 00N 008 00W 52 20N 005 30W - 53 55N 005 30W 54 25N 008 10W - 55 22N 006 55W

54 00N 01500W

51 00N 008 00W 51 00N

015 00W

52 20N 005 30W

53 55N 005 30W

55 20N 006 55W

MOC DUBLIN

VALENTIA MRSC

MALIN HD MRSC



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Irish SRR Divisions Appendix 1.2



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Irish EEZ (Pollution and casualty response zone) Appendix 1.3



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Part 2

Irish Search and Rescue Organisation



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2.1 IRISH COAST GUARD (IRCG)

2.1.1 The Irish Coast Guard (IRCG), as a division of the Department of Transport (DoT), has responsibility for the co-ordination of maritime SAR emergency response in the Irish Search and Rescue Region. It maintains a Maritime Operations Centre (MOC) incorporating Irelands Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) at Dublin and Marine Rescue Sub-Centres (MRSC) at Malin Head in Co Donegal and Valentia Island in County Kerry. It has a comprehensive Marine Communications Network covering Irish offshore and inland waters. It maintains a network of strategically located Coastal Units equipped to deal with local marine emergencies. Core activities of the IRCG relevant to this Framework include:

• To provide a national marine search and rescue service; • Provide an emergency and humanitarian response service3 to the off-shore

islands; • To provide an offshore, coastal, inland and, where appropriate, mountain &

cliff emergency response service; • To provide a search and rescue service for aircraft at the request of the

Irish Aviation Authority; • To manage, train, equip and provide for the health and safety of a national

Coast Guard volunteer service on the coast and inland waterways of Ireland.

• To provide, on request, helicopter search and rescue services in the UK Search and Rescue Region

• To provide search and rescue services over land in aid to an Garda Síochána;

• To assist the Health Service Executive (HSE) in remote area patient transport and life support;

• To assist other primary emergency agencies and services during major emergencies;

• To provide a maritime safety communications and paging service. 2.1.2 IRCG provide medical link calls from ships at sea to the vessel’s national

medical centre and evacuation of the casualty from the vessel by helicopter or lifeboat if required. If medical advice requires the casualty to be taken off the vessel then the MRCC/MRSC providing the link will arrange for the casualty to be transported from the vessel to a hospital. IRCG Responders or aircrew dealing with patients in remote locations can be linked live through a Coordination centre on marine communications to Medico Cork or any foreign Medico Centre.

2.1.3 The IRCG maintains 54 Coastal Units, trained and equipped to deal with

local marine emergencies. All units are trained in search techniques while 20 are trained in cliff climbing and 16 are equipped with boats Volunteer Units are all equipped with search vehicles fitted with blue lights, all-terrain vehicles (Quads), first aid equipment and training, generators and area lighting, search equipment, marine radios, pyrotechnics and appropriate PPE.

3 This includes medical evacuation.



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Each team is trained in search skills, first aid, setting up helicopter landing sites and a variety of maritime skills. Certain Units are also equipped and trained as cliff rescue units and can either respond locally or be air lifted to an incident. Other teams strategically located along the coast are equipped with either rescue, patrol or transport inshore craft in the 4 – 9m range.

Expected performance criteria (dependant on local conditions) • Achieve a 90% response time of 10 minutes for an initial response team

departing the Stationhouse from notification by an MRCC/MRSC during daylight and 20 minutes at night.

• Achieve a 90% response time to the scene of the incident in less than 60 minutes from notification by an MRCC/SC during daylight and 75 minutes at night subject to geographical limitations.

2.2 SAR HELICOPTERS

2.2.1 This service is currently provided under contract to provide, maintain and operate a 24/7 search and rescue helicopter service, from four airport locations in Ireland – Dublin, Shannon, Waterford and Sligo. The helicopters are designated wheels up from initial notification in 15 minutes during daylight hours and 45 at night. One aircraft is fitted and its crew trained for under slung cargo operations up to 3000kgs and is available on short notice based at Waterford.

2.2.2 Expected performance criteria

• Achieve 95% launch time of 15 minutes on urgent calls from normal ground readiness between 0700 – 2100

• Achieve a 95% launch time of 45 minutes on urgent calls from normal ground readiness between 2100 - 0700.

• Achieve a 95% availability of all weather SAR (AWSAR) aircraft at each base.

• Achieve a 97% availability of AWSAR plus limited SAR (LIMSAR) aircraft at each base.

2.2.3 These aircraft respond to emergencies at sea, inland waterways, offshore

islands and mountains of Ireland (32 counties). They can also be used for assistance in flooding, major emergencies inland, back up to the Aer Corps for the provision of intra-hospital transfers, pollution, and aerial surveillance during daylight hours, lifting and passenger operations and other operations as requested by the Coast Guard and authorised or approved by the Irish Aviation Authority in accordance with the appropriate aviation regulations. The Coast Guard can contract specialised aerial surveillance or dispersant spraying aircraft at short notice internationally.

2.2.4 Helicopter tasks include: • The location of marine and aviation incident survivors by homing onto

aviation and marine radio distress transmissions, by guidance from other agencies, and by visual, electronic and electro-optical search.



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• The evacuation of survivors from the sea, and medical evacuees from all manner of vessels including high-sided passenger and cargo vessels and from the islands.

• The evacuation of personnel from ships facing potential disaster. • Search and/or rescue in mountainous areas, caves, rivers, lakes and

waterways. • The transport of offshore fire fighters or marine ambulance teams and their

equipment following a request for assistance. • The provision of safety cover for other SAR units including other Marine

Emergency Service helicopters. • Inter-agency training in all relevant aspects of the primary role. • Onshore emergency medical service, including evacuation and aero-medical

tasks carried out with specific Approvals issued in accordance with Joint Aviation Requirements JAR OPS 3.005(d).

• Relief of the islands and of areas suffering from flooding or deep snow. The secondary roles of the helicopter include: • The exercise of the primary search, rescue and evacuation roles in adjacent

Search and Rescue regions. • Assistance to onshore emergency services in accordance with IAA

approvals.

2.2.5 IRCG provide aeronautical assets for Search and Rescue in the Mountains of Ireland. Request for IRCG assets are made to the Marine Rescue Centres. Requests are accepted from An Garda Síochána and nominated persons in MR Teams.

2.3 IRISH AVIATION AUTHORITY (IAA) 2.3.1 The IAA is a semi state agency responsible to the Department of Transport

for the provision of Air Traffic Services (ATS) including Air Traffic Control (ATC). This includes the provision of an Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) at Shannon Airport and an Aeronautical Rescue Sub Centre (ARSC) at Dublin airport. The Aviation Search and Rescue Region covers an area coincident with the Shannon FIR/UIR.

2.3.2 ARCC/ARSC shall be the co-ordinating agency for establishment of

Temporary Restricted Areas when so required for SAR purposes. Clearance to enter, operate in or leave any of the above mentioned areas should be obtained from the appropriate ATS units.

2.3.3 Where aviation resources are required in response to an aviation incident,

ARCC will request resources and any support services as are required.

2.3.4 The Safety Regulation Division of the Irish Aviation Authority has the function with regard to aviation legislation and regulatory oversight of all civilian aircraft operations, including in this case Search and Rescue.



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2.4 AN GARDA SÍOCHÁNA

2.4.1 The mission of An Garda Síochána is: ‘Ag obair le Pobail chun iad a chosaint agus chun freastal orthu - Working with Communities to Protect and Serve'.

2.4.2 An Garda Síochána, the Irish police service is responsible for land based

search and rescue in Ireland. They co-ordinate searches and investigations for missing persons.

2.4.3 The country is divided in 26 Garda Divisions. Each Division is responsible

for co-ordinating searches in their own area. (See appendix 2.6) 2.4.4 The Garda Divers are a resource that the Irish Coast Guard may request for

assistance with under water searches.

2.5 ROYAL NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION (RNLI) 2.5.1 The RNLI is a voluntary organisation dedicated to the purpose of saving life

at sea, and in certain cases on inland waters. 2.5.2 The RNLI’s Concept of Operations is to save lives at sea by providing:

• A fleet strategic located all weather lifeboats that are available at all times

and tactically placed inshore craft, which are subject to weather limitations. • In the UK area a beach Lifeguard service on a seasonal basis where

appropriate • Safety education and accident prevention

to a defined standard of performance, commensurate with the resources available, using trained and competent people who, whenever possible, are volunteers.

2.5.3 Strategic Performance Standards:

• achieve an average launch time of 10 minutes from notification by the IRCG • reach all notified casualties where a risk to life exists, in all weathers, out to a

maximum of 100 nautical miles • reach at least 90% of all casualties within 10 nautical miles of lifeboat

stations within 30 minutes of launch in all weathers 2.5.4 A Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) is vested the power to authorise the

launching of the lifeboat. Although all RNLI boats are collectively described as “lifeboats” they fall into two categories: -

• All-weather Lifeboats (ALBs), which are under the command of the Coxswain, or in his absence the Second Coxswain.

• Inshore Lifeboats (ILB’s) which are less than 10 metres in length and which are under the command of a Helmsman are subject to launching limitations dependent upon weather conditions.



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2.5.5 For Lifeboats in the Republic of Ireland the responsibility for coordination rests with the Irish Coast Guard. Any request for a lifeboat launch should always in the first instance be routed through a Coast Guard Coordination Centre who will page the crew directly and request a launch. The RNLI reserves the right to direct its own assets, coordinated by the Coast Guard.

2.6 COMMUNITY RESCUE BOATS IRELAND (CRBI) 2.6.1 The CRBI are a community based volunteer inshore rescue boat service.

They are declared facilities to the IRCG as part of the Irish SAR Organisation. The Rescue units are composed of trained personnel and provided with equipment suitable for the expeditious conduct of Search and Rescue operations. They are community based and located at a number of locations around the coast of Ireland. These locations are listed in Appendix 2.3.

2.6.2 It is the responsibility of the CRBI station to

• declare the standard of capability of their declared facility; • maintain the declared facility to the declared standard; • inform the Irish Coast Guard immediately there is a change in the declared

facility; • advise the Irish Coast Guard when the declared facility is launched on

operation response or exercise and once launched place it under the Co-ordinating Authority of the Irish Coast Guard. Advise the Irish Coast Guard when the facility returns to station.

• allow inspections when requested by the Irish Coast Guard or the Irish Water Safety.

• provide when requested financial estimates for the coming year and receipts from the past year if they wish to apply for any grant aiding that may be available.

2.6.3 IRCG responsibilities • MRCC/MRSC’s are responsible for maintaining local liaison with CRBI

station. Voluntary Services and Training Division of the Irish Coast Guard will nominate an Coastal Unit Sector Manager (CUSM) to maintain liaison with HQ.

• Meetings with the Station Coxswain/Helmsman are held six monthly, one at the MRCC/MRSC and one at the CRBI station.

• It is the responsibility of the Irish Coast Guard to assess the standards of performance of the declared facilities of the Irish SAR Organisation.

2.7 IRISH MOUNTAIN RESCUE ASSOCIATION (IMRA) 2.7.1 The Irish Mountain Rescue Association, is an all Ireland volunteer

organisation comprising specialist teams trained in the provision of mountain rescue services throughout the country. Each Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) has a primary response area within which they are the recognised first response for mountain search and rescue incidents in that area. The MRT will also respond on a National basis if required. (See Appendix 2.8).



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2.8 CIVIL DEFENCE

2.8.1 Civil Defence is a national organisation that includes a Local Authority Structure to provide support and assistance to the Primary Emergency Services and to the local communities particularly in times of emergency or distress. The organisation aims are to promote, develop and maintain Civil Defence as an effective volunteer based professional organisation providing emergency response and community support services. It has a number of developmental programmes and can provide a corps of trained, uniformed voluntary members with vehicles and equipment and supported by its own communications system. The Civil Defence volunteers assist the Coast Guard during prolonged searches for missing persons, (see appendix 2.7).

2.9 DUBLIN FIRE BRIGADE

2.9.1 The Dublin Fire Brigade have declared a capability for Marine Emergency Fire response to the Coast Guard. They have sufficient trained personnel to provide two teams, of six persons ready to respond and deal with fire in a marine environment at any time.

2.10 HEALTH SERVICE EXECUTIVE (HSE)

2.10.1 The HSE is responsible for operating the Ambulance service in Ireland. The HSE is divided into regions for daily operations. Each region has its own control centre. The Ambulance service can be alerted by calls to their respective control centre.

2.10.2 Medico Cork, as part of the HSE is the national medical centre for dealing

with medical emergencies at sea. It is based in Cork University Hospital and is available on a twenty-four hour basis to seafarers via the Irish Coast Guard marine radio communications network.

2.10.3 The HSE through their Maritime Ambulance Response Teams (MART)

provide medical assistance on land or sea for major emergencies. They are declared to the Coast Guard, and can be called out at 30 minutes notice day or night.

2.11 HARBOUR AUTHORITIES

2.11.1 Harbour Masters are responsible for the safety of navigation within their Harbour Authority defined areas of jurisdiction under the 1996 Harbours Act, the 1946 Harbour Act, Fishery Harbour Centres Act 1968, local authority harbours and in the case of a Harbour under the management of Iarnroid Éireann – Irish Rail, with specific powers to regulate the control and movement of all Vessels, Shipping/Boat movements in the Harbour and its approaches. The Department of Transport has an overall oversight function.



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2.11.2 Sect 8 of the Merchant Shipping (Wreck & Salvage) Act 1993 defines the role of the Harbour Master in relation to vessels in distress and the saving of persons onboard.

2.11.3 The Coast Guard may exercise the SAR function within Harbours in

accordance with the 1993 Act. Harbour masters provide assistance to the emergency services where possible for dealing with marine emergencies that may involve rescue. The Coast Guard will advise Harbour masters of any SAR mission within their harbour limits.

2.11.4 The coordinating authority may appoint an on scene coordinator (OSC) for

the execution of a SAR mission within a Harbour area after consideration of the person who is best suited in terms of capacity and ability to perform that function. The OSC may therefore, in harbour areas, be the Harbour Master or his Deputy. If a Harbour Master or his Deputy considers that a particular incident warrants an OSC then they should relay this opinion to the Coordinating Authority.

2.12 AIR ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION UNIT 2.12.1 The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) of the Department of Transport

is responsible for the investigation of aviation accidents that occur in the State of Ireland. In addition, the AAIU is also responsible for the investigation of accidents to Irish registered or operated aircraft that occurs in international waters. Such air accident investigations are conducted in accordance with ICAO Annex 13, EU Directive 94/56/EC and S.I. 460 of 2009.

2.12.2 The AAIU maintains a 24/7 immediate response for all aviation accidents

and has agreed procedures with the Coast Guard in relation to aviation accidents at sea.

2.12.3 The AAIU will assist the OSC during the SAR phase of an aviation accident.

2.12.4 The planning, management and control of the recovery of aircraft wreckage,

including flight recorders, will be conducted by the AAIU in consultation with the IRCG.

2.12.5 The international responsibilities of the AAIU, with respect to wreckage

access, recovery and preservation, are laid down in Annex 13 and EU Directive 94/56/EC, as transposed into Irish law by S.I. 460 of 2009. Currently EU Directive 94/56/EC is in the process of being transposed into an EU Regulation, which may require changes to the Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act 1993 regarding the powers and responsibilities of the Receiver of Wreck.

2.13 IRISH CAVE RESCUE ORGANISATION (ICRO) 2.13.1 The Irish Cave Rescue Organisation is a volunteer organisation providing

cave rescue services throughout the whole of the island of Ireland.



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2.14 LIFEGUARDS

2.14.1 This Framework does not supersede the existing liaison agreements between the Coast Guard and certain local authorities with regard to lifeguard services. Included in these Liaison Agreements the following has been agreed:

• Local authorities that allow their lifeguards to be designated as a declared facility will develop and make available to IRCG written operating procedures, which will include a full Normal Operating Policy and Emergency Action Plans.

• All lifeguards will have available communication equipment to maintain contact with the MRCC/SC in the event of an emergency. Local authorities will submit to IRCG all telephone numbers of their Lifeguard Units at the commencement of the season.

• Local authorities will ensure that their lifeguards are trained in the correct procedure for contacting IRCG in the event of an emergency.

• Where lifeguards are provided daily or on weekends, precise dates, times, number of lifeguards and limits of patrolled areas are to be notified to the relevant MRCC/SC.

• Lifeguard Units will be equipped with appropriate, well-maintained equipment, a list of which will be made available to IRCG.

2.15 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

2.15.1 Department of Defence resources are available to the SAR Authority within

the terms of a Service Level Agreement, (SLA). A full range of the services provided by the Defence Forces to the IRCG under this agreement is listed at Annex 2.7.

2.15.2 As the State’s principle seagoing agency, the Naval Service maintains a

constant presence in Ireland ‘s Search and Rescue Region and is therefore positioned to contribute in many SAR activities. Government has given the Naval Service the role “to contribute to the maximum to all the State’s requirements in the maritime domain”. The Naval Service has expertise and experience in dealing with the most demanding SAR operations and in accordance with the agreed SLA, Naval Service personnel may be appointed by the IRCG as on-scene co-ordinators during a SAR operation . All personnel on Naval ships are trained and often engage in SAR Operations that involve fire fighting at sea.

2.15.3 The Naval Service Divers are available to the Irish Coast Guard and are used

for under water searches, recovery, ROV, survey, training, hyperbaric facilities and advice.

2.15.4 The Irish Air Corps provide CASA fixed wing aircraft to act as top cover for

SAR operations. This aircraft is a Maritime Surveillance Aircraft, ideally suited for maritime search operations and with the capability of dropping life



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rafts. The Air Corps fleet of helicopters may be used as additional resources if available.

2.15.5 The Defence Forces also provide Critical Incident Stress Management

services to IRCG personnel on request from the IRCG.

2.16 CRAFT OF CONVENIENCE

2.16.1 Any craft at sea may be required to be used as a ‘craft of convenience’ and are obliged under international law (SOLAS V Regulation 33) to respond to a distress call until released by the coordinating Authority. Additional powers are available under the Merchant shipping Salvage and Wreck Act 1993 and under EU VTMIS Directives as amended.

2.17 LEGISLATION

Various aspects of legislation and Government decisions underpin the provision of SAR services in Ireland. Particular reference is made to the following Legislation: Merchant Shipping (Salvage & Wreck) Act (MSA) 1993 2.17.1 An authorised Officer may take such actions as the authorised officer thinks

fit for the saving of the lives of the shipwrecked persons and the vessel and the cargo and apparel of the vessel which may include;

• require assistance from such relevant persons as that officer thinks necessary; • require the master of any vessel near at hand to give such aid with that vessel

and the crew thereof as may be in that master's power; • demand the use of any vehicle, vessel (except Naval vessel and lifeboat) or

aircraft suitably equipped for the purpose required that might be near at hand.

2.17.2 Whenever a vessel is in distress, any person may, for the purpose of rendering assistance to the vessel, saving the lives of the shipwrecked persons or saving the cargo or apparel of the vessel, pass and repass, either with or without vehicles, over any adjoining lands, unless there is some public road equally convenient, without being subject to interruption by the owner or occupier, so that as little damage as possible is done, and may also, on the like condition, deposit on those lands any cargo or other article recovered from the vessel.

The Maritime Safety Act 2005

2.17.3 Securing safe navigable routes. Under Sect 38 of The Maritime Safety Act 2005 an authorised Officer may for the purposes of securing the safety and security of vessels, persons on vessels or persons or property adjacent to Irish waters, securing the proper operation of a port or harbour (including access to and from it and movement within its confines by vessels), securing safe navigable routes, securing that search and rescue and search and recovery operations can be conducted safely or providing for the protection of a natural heritage area may give directions to the owner or master of a vessel or a person who reasonably appears to him or her, to be in charge of the vessel, in Irish waters.



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2.17.4 If a direction is not being complied with, the authorised Officer, may take such action and do such things, in relation to the vessel concerned or the stores, equipment or cargo of the vessel as appear, having regard to all the circumstances, to be necessary and reasonable for the purposes of enforcing subsection which may include all or any of the following—

• the movement of a vessel in, out of, or beyond, the limits of Irish waters or to a specified place in such manner as may be specified,

• the restraint or control of a vessel or its movements and the attendance on the vessel of such tug-boats or other vessels as may be specified,

• the boarding of the vessel for the purposes of giving advice or assistance in relation to the movement, restraint or control of a vessel, or to assess any damage to the vessel which may prevent the carrying out of the movement, restraint or control of the vessel, and to take any measures deemed necessary to repair such damage,

• the temporary prevention of or restriction on the navigation of vessels within a specified area or specified areas, or the establishment and maintenance of a temporary exclusion zone around a vessel, structure or other thing that is sunk, wrecked, damaged or in distress, for the purposes of allowing any directions or actions under this section to be carried out safely,

• the unloading of the stores, equipment, cargo or any other substance on a vessel, and the specification of the type or class of vessel by which any such operation of unloading is to be carried out.

2.17.5 The Naval Service has powers in relation to SAR under the MSA 1993 and

the Maritime Safety Act 2005. Its Officers are also authorised under the MSA 1992 (safety of passenger ships, fishing vessels and pleasure craft)

2.18 List of IRCG Agreements and Memorandum of Understanding

2.12.1 Civil Defence 2.12.2 Commissioners of Irish Lights 2.12.3 Community Rescue Boats of Ireland (under review) 2.12.4 Department of Defence 2.12.5 Department of Environment, heritage & Local Government (Maritime

protocol) (under consultation) 2.12.6 Dublin Fire Brigade (Fire response at Sea) 2.12.7 An Garda Síochána (under consultation) 2.12.8 Inland Authorities (Lifeguards – various LA’s) 2.12.9 Irish Aviation Authority 2.12.10 Marine Institute (under consultation) 2.12.11 Air Accident Investigation Unit (under consultation) 2.12.12 Oil Spill Response UK. 2.12.13 Royal National Lifeboat Institution RNLI 2.12.14 Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland 2.12.15 Health Services Executive, National Ambulance Service (under

consultation) 2.12.16 Health Services Executive, Marine Ambulance Response Team MART 2.12.17 UK Coastguard (under consultation)



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2.19 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS Abbreviations are as defined in the International Convention on Maritime SAR, 1997 Annex Chapter 1. ALRS Admiralty List of Radio Signals ATC Air Traffic Control ATD actual time of departure ATS Air Traffic Services CRS coast radio station CSS coordinator surface search (maritime) D datum DF direction finding DR dead-reckoning DGPS Differential GPS DSC digital selective calling dwt dead weight tonnes E East longitude ELT emergency locator transmitter EMSA European Maritime Safety Agency EPIRB emergency position indicating radio beacon ETA estimated time of arrival ETD estimate time of departure F/V fishing vessel Fig figure FIR flight information region FLIR forward looking infrared FM frequency modulation GHz GigaHertz GMDSS Global Maritime Distress and Safety System GPS Global positioning system GS Ground speed gt Gross tonnes HDG heading HPA Hectopascals HF high frequency IAA Irish Aviation Authority I/B inboard motor ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization IFR Instrument Flight Rules IMO International Maritime Organization Inmarsat International Maritime Satellite Organisation INTERCO International Code of SIGNALS JRCC joint (aviation and maritime) rescue coordination centre KHz kiloHertz kt knot (nautical mile per hour) LKP last known position M degrees magnetic M/V merchant vessel MEDEVAC medical evacuation MF medium frequency MHz megaHertz MMSI Maritime mobile service identity



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MSI Maritime safety information MTS Mean track spacing (sector search) NACGF North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum NAVAREA Navigational warning area Navigation warning area NECC National Emergency Coordination Centre (Kildare Street, Dublin) NM nautical mile MOC The Coast Guards National Maritime Operations Centre NOTAM notice to airmen NVG night vision goggles O/B outboard motor OSC on-scene coordinator PIW person in water PLB personal locator beacon POB persons onboard POD probability of detection RCC Rescue Coordination Centre S/V sailing vessel SAR search and rescue SART search and rescue transponder SITREP situation report SMC Search and rescue mission coordinator SOLAS International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea SOPs Standard Operating Procedures SPOC search and rescue single point of contact SRR search and rescue region SRS single raft system SRU Search and Rescue Unit SURPIC surface picture TCA time of closest approach TELEX Teletype UHF Ultra high frequency UTC coordinated universal time VFR visual flight rules VHF very high frequency VLR very long range



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2.20 GLOSSARY OF TERMS Aircraft Coordinator (ACO) A person who coordinates the involvement of multiple

aircraft in SAR operations. AIS Automatic Identification System. A ship borne

mechanism that automatically provides for the exchange of information between ships as well as the provision of such data to coastal stations. Information includes identification, position, speed course and certain other items about the ship and its cargo. S-AIS is AIS derived from receipt of signals by satellite i.e. space AIS.

Alert Phase A situation wherein apprehension exists as to the safety of an aircraft or marine vessel, and of the persons on board.

Alerting post Any facility intended to serve as an intermediary between a person reporting an emergency and a rescue coordination centre or rescue sub-centre.

Awareness stage A period during which the SAR system becomes aware of an actual or potential incident.

Captain. Master of a ship or pilot-in-command of an aircraft, commanding officer of a warship or an operator of any other vessel.

Coast earth station (CES) Maritime name for an Inmarsat shore-based station linking ship earth stations with terrestrial communications networks.

Coast Guard functions (CGF): Coast Guard functions are the different responsibilities held and, activities performed, by organisations operationally involved in the maritime domain, in accordance with national legislation.

Conclusion stage A period during a SAR incident when SAR facilities return to their regular location and prepare for another mission.

Coordination The bringing together of organisations and elements to ensure effective search and rescue response. One SAR authority must always have Overall coordination responsibility and other organisations are to cooperate with this agency to produce the best response possible within available resources.

Coordinated search pattern Multi-unit pattern using vessel(s) and aircraft. Cospas-Sarsat System A satellite system designed to detect distress beacons

transmitting on the frequencies 121.5 MHz, 243 MHz and 406 MHz.

Coverage factor (C) For parallel sweep searches, Coverage Factor (C) is computed as the ratio of sweep width (W) to track spacing (S). C = W/S.

Craft Any air or sea-surface vehicle, or submersible of any kind or size.

Crisis Ongoing, often unplanned event Datum A geographic point, line, or area used as a reference in

search planning.



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Datum area Area where it is estimated that the search object is most likely to be located.

Datum line A line, such as the distressed craft's intended track line or a line of bearing, which defines the centre of the area where it is estimated that the search object is most likely to be located.

Datum point A point, such as a reported or estimated position, at the centre of the area where it is estimated that the search object is most likely to be located.

Dead reckoning (DR) Determination of position of a craft by adding to the last fix the craft's course and speed for a given time.

Digital selective calling (DSC) A technique using digital codes which enables a radio station to establish contact with, and transfer information to, another station or group of stations.

Disaster: An event that overwhelms resources Distress Phase A situation wherein there is reasonable

certainty that a vessel or other craft, including an aircraft or a person, is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance.

Drift The movement of a search object caused by environmental forces.

Emergency An event that requires immediate response Emergency Phase Emergency phases are based on the level of concern for

the safety of persons or craft that may be in danger. The three levels of emergency are classified as Uncertainty, Alert, and Distress.

Fetch The distance over which the wind blows in a constant direction, without obstruction.

First RCC RCC affiliated with the shore station that first acknowledges a distress alert, and which will accept responsibility for all subsequent SAR coordination unless and until coordination is transferred to another RCC.

Forward-looking infrared (FLIR) An imaging system, mounted on board surface vessels or aircraft, designed to detect thermal energy (heat) emitted by targets and convert it into a visual display.

GIS A Geographic Information System (GIS) is any system that captures, stores, analyzes, manages, and presents data that is linked to location. Technically, a GIS is a system that includes mapping software and its application to remote sensing, land surveying, aerial photography, mathematics, photogrammetry, geography, and tools that can be implemented with GIS software.

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) A global communications service based upon automated systems, both satellite-based and terrestrial, to provide distress alerting and promulgation of maritime safety information for mariners.

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Worldwide position and time determination system that includes one or more satellite constellations and receivers lies in a plane that intersects the sphere's centre.



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IMS Integrated Maritime Surveillance (IMS) is a process that provides for a common information-sharing environment that would enable Member State (MS) Authorities and Commission Agencies to access, maritime surveillance and monitoring data generated by different sectors of activity, deemed necessary for the performance of their duties.

Initial position error (X) The estimated probable error of the initially reported position of a SAR incident.

Instrument flight rules (IFR) Rules governing the procedures for conducting instrument flight. Also a term used by pilots and controllers to indicate type of flight plan.

Irish Maritime Domain That part of the maritime domain encompassed by Irelands Territorial Waters, Exclusive Economic Zone, Continental Shelf, and Search and Rescue Areas, as defined by UNCLOS/SOLAS, together with all cargo and vessels flagged, beneficially owned by, or bound for Ireland, as well as any Area of Operations outside the above that has been declared for an Irish Maritime Operation.

Irish waters includes the territorial seas, the waters on the landward side of the territorial seas, and the estuaries, rivers, lakes and other inland waters (whether or not artificially created or modified) of the State

Knot (kt) A unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour. Last known position (LKP) Last witnessed, reported, or computed DR position of a

distressed craft. Leeway (LW) The movement of a search object through water caused

by winds blowing against exposed surfaces. LRIT Long Range Identification and Tracking (of Ships).

Long range vessel-monitoring system introduced by the International Maritime Organisation in 2006, requiring the periodic transmission of the identity and position of vessels. Transmissions are via satellite to LRIT Data Centres. Only the flag state, plus the contracting (port) state of the ship's destination and the coastal state within a distance not exceeding 1000 n.m. of its coast have access to the data.

MAYDAY The international radiotelephony distress signal, repeated three times.

Mass Rescue: An operation where immediate assistance is required for a large number of persons in distress.

Major Emergency: Normal resources cannot deal with it. Multi Agency response required, to an event that stretches resources to the limit.

Maritime Domain: The Maritime Domain encompasses all areas and objects of, on, under, relating to, adjacent to, or bordering a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway, including all maritime-related activities, infrastructure, people, cargo and vessels and other conveyances.

Maritime Safety the combination of preventive and responsive measures intended to protect the maritime domain against, and



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limit the effect of, accidental or natural danger, harm, environmental damage, risk or loss.

Maritime Situational Awareness (MSA): Maritime Situational Awareness is the effective understanding of any information and data associated with the global maritime domain that could impact the security, safety, environment or economy of the coastal state.

Maritime Safety: Maritime Safety is the measures taken by the appropriate national and international authorities to ensure the safety of life, safe navigation of ships and transport of goods at sea, prevent accidents, pollution and, in general, all the undesired effects of an incorrect exercise of legal maritime activities.

Maritime Operations Centre (MOC) The integration of several maritime operational services which are the responsibility of the Coast Guard under one Coast Guard national Marine Operations Centre (MOC). As such, an MOC has national responsibility for (i) Coastal Vessel Traffic Management Services (VTM) (ii) Search and Rescue, (iii) Marine Assistance Service (MAS) as declared by the IMO, (iv) single point of contact (SPOC) for ISPS maritime ship security alerts, (v) national maritime communications centre, (vi) hosts marine emergency room (vii) SPOC for international Coast Guard to Coast Guard and (viii) national marine pollution and ship casualty response coordination centre. It does not perform functions in respect of criminality at sea, fisheries control and security of the State or upholding sovereignty.

Navtex Telegraphy system for transmission of maritime safety information, navigation and meteorological warnings and urgent information to ships.

Medevac Evacuation of a person for medical reasons. North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum The North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum (NACGF) is an

informal organisation, not bound by treaty, bringing together representatives from North Atlantic/North European countries to facilitate multilateral cooperation on matters related to combined operations including search and rescue. The NACGF may also provide a forum for the exchange of technical experiences. Established in 2007, NACGF includes participation by the United States, Canada, Iceland, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Russian Federation.

On-scene The search area or the actual distress site. On-scene coordinator (OSC) A person designated to coordinate search and rescue

operations within a specified area On-scene endurance The amount of time a facility may spend at the scene

engaged in search and rescue activities.



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PAN-PAN The international radiotelephony urgency signal. When repeated three times, indicates uncertainty or alert, followed by nature of urgency.

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) Personal radio distress beacon for alerting and transmitting homing signals.

Pilot-in-command The pilot responsible for the operation and safety of the aircraft during flight time.

Planning stage A period during a SAR incident when an effective plan of operations is developed.

Position A geographical location normally expressed in degrees and minutes of latitude and longitude.

Probability of detection (POD). The probability of the search object being detected, assuming it was in the areas that were searched. POD is a function of coverage factor, sensor, search conditions and the accuracy with which the search facility navigates its assigned search pattern. Measures sensor effectiveness under the prevailing search conditions.

Rescue An operation to retrieve persons in distress, provide for their initial medical or other needs, and deliver them to a place of safety.

Rescue coordination centre (RCC) The centre from which a SAR incident is controlled and coordinated.

Search and rescue mission coordinator (SMC) The suitably trained or qualified official temporarily assigned to coordinate a response to an actual or apparent distress situation.

Search and rescue Framework A general term used to describe documents which exist at all levels of the national and international search and rescue structure to describe goals, arrangements, and procedures which support the provision of search and rescue services.

Search and rescue point of contact (SPOC) Rescue coordination centres and other established and recognized national points of contact that can accept responsibility to receive Cospas-Sarsat alert data to enable the rescue of persons in distress.

Search and rescue region (SRR) An area of defined dimensions, associated with the national rescue coordination centre (MRCC Dublin), within which search and rescue services are provided.

Search and rescue service The performance of distress monitoring, communication, coordination and search and rescue functions, including provision of medical advice, initial medical assistance, or medical evacuation, through the use of public and private resources, including cooperating aircraft, vessels and other craft and installations.

Search and rescue stage Typical steps in the orderly progression of SAR missions. These are normally Awareness, Initial Action, Planning, Operations, and Mission Conclusion.

Search and rescue unit (SRU) A unit composed of trained personnel and provided with equipment suitable for the expeditious conduct of search and rescue operations.

Search area. The area determined by the search planner to be searched. This area may be sub-divided into search



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sub-areas for the purpose of assigning specific responsibilities to the available search facilities.

Search endurance (T) The amount of "productive" search time available at the scene Search pattern. A procedure assigned to an SRU for searching a specified area.

Search radius. The actual search radius used to plan the search and to assign search facilities. It is usually based on adjustments to the optimal search radius that are needed for operational reasons.

Track spacing (S) The distance between adjacent parallel search tracks. Triage The process of sorting survivors according to medical

condition and assigning them priorities for emergency care, treatment, and evacuation.

True air speed (TAS) The speed an aircraft is travelling through the air mass. TAS corrected for wind equals ground speed.

TSS Traffic Separation Scheme, a routing measure aimed at the separation of opposing streams of (Vessel) traffic by appropriate means and by the establishment of traffic lanes.

Uncertainty Phase A situation wherein doubt exists as to the safety of an aircraft or a marine vessel, and of the persons on board.

VDS Vessel Detection System. Council Regulation 1966/2006 foresees operational use of satellites in contexts where cost effectiveness can be proven, starting in January 2009. The Vessel Detection System relies on polar orbiting satellites carrying Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) instruments, which can detect vessels at sea under most conditions – day and night, and through cloud.

Visual flight rules (VFR) Rules governing procedures for conducting flight under visual meteorological conditions. In addition, used by pilots and controllers to indicate type of flight plan.

VMS Vessel Monitoring System. In connection to the implementation of the Common Fisheries Policy, EC legislation provides for the establishment and operation of a satellite-based VMS by each Member State, in order to monitor the position and movement of fishing vessels.

VTM (IS) Vessel Traffic Monitoring (Information System). Established by Directive 2002/59/EC, as amended by Directive 2009/17/EC, on the establishment of a Community vessel traffic monitoring and information system.

VTS Vessel Traffic Services. Shore based systems that range from the provision of information messages to the extensive management of maritime traffic.



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Appendix 2.1 IRCG MARINE VHF COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

Malin Head Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 23, DSC 70

Glen Head Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 24, DSC 70

Belmullet Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 83, DSC 70

Clifden Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 26, DSC 70

Galway Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 04, DSC 70

Shannon Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 28, DSC 70

Valentia Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 24, DSC 70

Bantry Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 23, DSC 70

Cork Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 26, DSC 70

Mine Head Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 83, DSC 70

Rosslare Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 23, DSC 70

Wicklow Head Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 02, DSC 70

Dublin Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 83, DSC 70

Carlingford Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 04, DSC 70

Dublin MOC

Valentia MRSC

Malin Head MRSC

DUBLIN NMOC CONTROLLED RADIO STATIONS

MALIN HEAD MRSC CONTROLLED RADIO STATIONS

VALENTIA MRSC CONTROLLED RADIO STATIONS

AIS STATION

Donegal Bay Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 02, DSC 70

Mizen Head Coast Guard Radio VHF Channels 16, 67, 04, DSC 70

L. Ree CG Radio VHF Ch 16, 62

L. Derg CG Radio VHF Ch 16, 61



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Irish Coast Guard Volunteer teams Appendix 2.2



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IRCG, Heli, RNLI & CRBI 24/7 Resources Appendix 2.3



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Range achieved by current (Sikorsky S61) helicopters within one hour by day from current SAR bases: Dublin, Waterford, Shannon and Sligo Airports. (15 minutes readiness, 45 minutes flight = 75 nm = 86 statute miles)



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On Call and response structure Appendix 2.4



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An Garda Síochána Regions Appendix 2.5

PREPARED BY PAUL CREANER, MAPPING SECTION

14 AUGUST 2009

An Garda Síochána

Divisional Boundaries DONEGAL

SLIGO/

LEITRIM

CAVAN/

MONAGHAN

LOUTH

MEATH

WESTMEATH

DMR

WICKLOW

WEXFORD

KILKENNY/

CARLOW

ROSCOMMON/

LONGFORD

MAYO

GALWAY

CLARE

KILDARE

LAOIS/

OFFALY

TIPPERARY

LIMERICK

KERRY

CORK

WEST

CORK

NORTH

CORK

CITY

WATERFORD



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Map of Mountain Rescue Teams Appendix 2.6



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Appendix 2.7 DF/IRCG SLA Extract: Schedule of Services

Naval Service

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

Service Description Service

Provider

Service

Recipient

At request of IRCG, provide assistance as follows,

• Search & Rescue/ Recovery support

o On-scene Co-ordinator

o Emergency Medical Technician assistance

o Provision of Fire fighting teams

o Provision of Engineering assistance

o Provision of accommodation for Casualty personnel

o Other unforeseen assistance as deemed necessary at

the time of the incident

o VMS data as appropriate

• Pollution Monitoring & Control

o Taking of Oil samples

o Surveillance

o Reporting

• Accommodation of IRCG personnel onboard NS as required

• Towage in restricted circumstances

• Escort

• Enforcement

o Exclusion Zones

• Diving Unit

o Body Recovery

o Wreck survey as part of body recovery operation,

potential salvage or pollution response.

o Ordnance disposal of suspect devices at sea

o ROV operations

o Advice

• Technical Assistance and Support

o To Marine Pollution Response Team

o Salvage/casualty team

o IRCG Incident Manager for major SAR incidents

Naval

Service

IRCG

NS representation on committees N/A N/A



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Provider

Service

Recipient

Training

• Offer places on NS On scene Co-ordinator Courses for

organisations assisting Coast Guard i.e. C.I.L./Marine Inst.

• Training exercises with Coast Guard including participation of

marine assets under contract by the Coast Guard i.e. ILV

GRAUNAILE, SAR helicopters etc

Naval

Service

IRCG

Training

• Provide IRCG support to NS On scene Co-ordinator

• Liaison on development of SAR courses

• Liaison to provide transport of NS Dive team to incident sites

• NS/IRCG staff liaison visits to IRCG Rescue Co-ordination

Centres/NS facilities

• Relevant pollution and salvage courses.

IRCG NS

IRCG will supply AIS - WEBGAD. Requires ongoing liaison as AIS

project is still under development

IRCG NS

IRCG to give to NS contact details of personnel and appointment

holders who are authorised to request NS assistance

IRCG NS



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Air Corps

Schedule of Services


Provider

Service

Recipient

At request of IRCG, provide assistance as follows,

• Search & Rescue, search support

o offshore,

o coastal

o inland waterways

o Mountains

o On-scene air Co-ordinator

• Provision of Top Cover for SAR missions

• Island Medevacs when the IRCG are unable to respond

• Maritime pollution monitoring

• Maritime surveillance

• Air Deployed life raft tasks

• Environmental escort duties

• Representation on Committees,

• Partake in joint training exercises as required e.g. annual IRCG training exercises with Mountain Rescue Teams4

• Emergency temporary accommodation at Baldonnel for IRCG helicopters in the event of a civil airport base closure in Dublin.

• Technical advice as appropriate.

Air Corps IRCG

4 A protocol in relation to MRT training exercises is to be drawn up between the IRCG, AC and DOD and will be incorporated under this Annex.



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Provision of Critical Incident Stress Management Services to the IRCG (i) The Personnel Support Service, (PSS) of the Defence Forces has a number of

personnel trained in CISM and agrees to provide appropriately trained personnel to provide such a service to IRCG staff and volunteers following a request from the IRCG. A determination of a Critical Incident and a decision to seek the CISM services is a matter for the IRCG.

(ii) The Director of the Personnel Support Service, (DPSS) located at DFHQ, Dublin, or a

staff member appointed by the DPSS will act as the DF’s co-ordinator for providing CISM team to the IRCG.

(iii) The IRCG should contact the DPSS directly during normal duty hours. The Duty

Officer, DFHQ should be contacted outside of normal duty hours. These contact points are listed below.

(iv) The DPSS should be informed by the IRCG of the situation requiring the CISM

service. The location, the name and phone number of the IRCG Area Officer, the number of the IRCG personnel involved should be provided. The IRCG should indicate when this service is required.

(v) Only the IRCG Search and Rescue Mission Co-ordinator (SMC) or a person

nominated by him shall request the assistance of the Defence Forces in the provision of this service and provide all the necessary detail as outlined in (iv).

(vi) The DPSS will select the CISM Team, appoint a Team Leader and advise the IRCG

who the Team members are. The Team Leader will make initial telephone contact with IRCG Area Officer/Manager to discuss details at local level.

(vii) On arrival on scene, the CISM Team Leader will report to the IRCG Area Officer,

who shall have been advised by IRCG HQ and will have organised suitable accommodation and facilities for the debriefing and the CISM Team.

(viii) In all cases indemnity and liability for DF equipment and personnel rests with the

Department of Defence. The decision to undertake any task requested by IRCG rests with the DF, (initially the DPSS, once on the ground the CISM Team Leader).

(ix) Travel, subsistence and miscellaneous expenses will be paid by the IRCG, on the

production of statements, to the individual members of the DF’s CISM Team. (x) An ongoing review of the procedures shall be conducted at least once annually.

(xi) Department of Defence may provide pre-incident CISM training to IRCG subject to

the exigencies of the service. Travel, subsistence and miscellaneous expenses will be paid by the IRCG, on the production of statements, to the individual members of the DF’s CISM Team

(xii) DF’s CISM Team will be responsible for initial follow – up however, if IRCG staff

require further counselling it is a matter for IRCG.

Documents

National maritime SAR Framework 2010 - DTTAS … · National Maritime SAR Framework version final 2010 Publish date: 2nd March 2010 Pg 3 of 61 l Contents Part 1 Irish National Search