SAR coordination and acting as on-scene coordinator
1The lesson in plain words
The SMC runs the case from the RCC; on scene, someone must coordinate the units. Often that is a merchant ship, and its master.
The chain
Search and rescue (SAR) coordination has three levels. The SAR coordinator (SC) is the person or agency responsible for establishing and managing the SAR service. The SAR mission coordinator (SMC), at the RCC, runs one case: plans the search, tasks units and decides when to end it. At the scene the on-scene coordinator (OSC) coordinates the units. When several aircraft are involved, an aircraft coordinator (ACO) coordinates them and works with the OSC.
Becoming OSC
The SMC normally designates the OSC. Until then, the first suitable unit to arrive takes the role. With the SMC’s agreement, hand over when a better-suited unit is ready. Brief the incoming OSC on the plan, units, areas covered, sightings, hazards, communications and outstanding tasks. Agree when responsibility transfers and tell all units.
What the OSC does
The OSC carries out the SMC's search action plan or rescue action plan, or makes one if none has arrived, and changes it as conditions demand, keeping the SMC informed. The OSC sets the on-scene radio channels, gives each unit a search area or task, keeps surface units and aircraft safely separated, and keeps a log of who searched where and what was found.
SITREPs
The OSC sends situation reports (SITREPs) to the SMC: on arrival, then at the intervals the SMC sets, and whenever something important happens. A SITREP gives weather and sea, units on scene, areas searched, results, plans and needs. Keep it short and factual, and number each one so nobody acts on an old report.
Your ship still comes first
As OSC the master remains responsible for the safety of the ship. Do not give a unit a task beyond its ability, such as sending a small boat to search in a gale. Accept the SMC's help with planning. When survivors are found, decide with the SMC which unit recovers them and where they go.
2Key data
- SC
- Person or agency responsible for managing the SAR service
- SMC
- At the RCC; plans and runs one SAR case
- OSC
- Coordinates the units on scene; designated by the SMC
- ACO
- Coordinates aircraft; works with the OSC
- No OSC yet
- The first suitable unit on scene takes the role
3Key points
- 1
SC: manages the service; SMC: runs the case; OSC: coordinates on scene; ACO: coordinates aircraft.
- 2
Until the SMC designates one, the first suitable unit on scene acts as OSC.
- 3
The OSC carries out or makes the action plan, assigns tasks, separates air and surface units.
- 4
SITREPs on arrival, at set intervals and on any important change; numbered.
- 5
The OSC master stays responsible for the ship and does not overtask other units.
4Frequent mistakes
Wrong: Wait for the RCC to name an OSC before coordinating the ships already there.
Right: The first suitable unit on scene takes the OSC role until the SMC designates one.
Wrong: As OSC, give every unit the same task so the search is even.
Right: Match tasks to each unit's ability: a fast boat, a large ship and a helicopter do different jobs well.
5Practice case & exam keys
Your tanker is acting as OSC. Two ships are searching and a helicopter is due. A steering fault now threatens your ability to remain safely on scene. The SMC can contact another suitable ship. What do you prioritise?
Show the answer
Protect your ship first. Tell the SMC and units about the steering fault and your limits. Request transfer to a suitable unit. Brief the replacement on the plan, units, areas covered, sightings, hazards, communications and outstanding tasks. Agree and announce the transfer time. Keep a log and maintain coordination only while safe; do not let OSC duties prevent the response to your own emergency.
Exam keys
- SC, SMC, OSC and ACO: four coordination roles in IAMSAR.
- First suitable unit on scene acts as OSC until designated.
- OSC: carry out or make the plan, assign tasks, separate air and surface units, log.
- SITREPs to the SMC: on arrival, at set intervals, on any important change.
Finish this unit
When you've read it, answer three questions. Get all three right to finish the unit; opening the page alone doesn't count.
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