South African Maritime and Aeronautical Search ad Rescue Act [No. 44 of 2002]


Government Gazette
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Vol. 451 Cape Town 15 January 2003 No. 24248
THE PRESIDENCY No. 94 15 January 2003 It is hereby notified that the President has
assented to the following Act, which is hereby published for general information:–
No. 44 of 2002: South African Maritime and Aeronautical Search ad Rescue Act, 2002.


2 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. I5 JANL‘AR1’ 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
(English text signed by the President.) (Assented to 30 December 2002.)
ACT To incorporate the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue, 1979, and Annex 12 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, 1944, into South African law; to establish the South African Maritime and Aeronautical Search and Rescue Organisation; and to provide for matters connected therewith.
B E IT ENACTED by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa. as follows:- Definitions
1. In this Act, unless the context indicates otherwise, any word or expression to which a meaning is ascribed in the Conventions bears the same meaning and- 5
“aircraft” means any machine that can derive support in the atmosphere from the reactions of the air other than the reactions of the air against the earth’s surface; “Department” means the Department of Transport; “Director-General” means the Director-General: Transport; “executive committee” means the executive committee of SASAR contemplated 10 in section 5(2)(a); “head of SASAR” means an official of the Department appointed in terms of section 5(7)(a); “International Civil Aviation Organisation” means the specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for formulating standards and recommended 15 practices for the purposes of civilian international air transport, established in terms of Article 43 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, in Chicago on 7 December 1944; “International Maritime Organisation” means the specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for formulating standards for civilian maritime 20 transport and for the safety of life at sea, established in terms of the Convention on International Maritime Organisation, in Geneva on 6 March 1948; “Minister” means the Minister of Transport; “person” includes any institution or organisation equipped to assist in a search and rescue operation, an organ of state, a government and an agency of the government 25 of a foreign country; “prescribed” means prescribed by regulation; “rescue” includes the provision of the initial medical treatment of a person rescued; “rescue co-ordination centre” means an institution responsible for promoting the 30 efficient organisation of search and rescue services and for co-ordinating the conduct of search and rescue operations within a search and rescue region; “rescue subcentre” means a suitably appointed unit tasked to carry out duties of a rescue co-ordination centre in instances where the rescue co-ordination centre cannot exercise direct and effective control over search and rescue facilities in 35 certain parts of a search and rescue region; “SASAR” means the South African Search and Rescue Organisation established by section 4;
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Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
“search and rescue region” means a region contemplated in section 11 (l)(c) in which the co-ordination of search and rescue operations is effected by a single rescue co-ordination centre; “the Conventions” means- (a) the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue adopted on 27 5
April 1979 by the Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organisation; and
(b) Annex 12 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation adopted on 7 December 1944 at Chicago;
“this Act” includes the regulations; 10 “vessel” means any water-navigable craft of any type, whether self-propelled or not.
Principal objects of Act
2. (1) The principal objects of this Act are to- (a) incorporate the Conventions into S uth Africa law; and 1s (b) establish the South African Search and Rescue Organisation to act on behalf
of the Department as the authority responsible for the application of the Conventions as well as other conventions binding on the Republic regarding maritime and aeronautical search and rescue operations.
(2) For purposes of subsection ( l ) (b ) the expression “other conventions’’ includes- 90 (a ) the Convention on the High Seas, 1958: and (b) the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974.
Incorporation of Conventions
3. (1) The Conventions contained in Schedules 1 and 2 are hereby enacted into law in the Republic. 25
(2) (a) Subject to paragraph (b), the Minister may from time to time by notice in the Gazerre amend Schedules 1 and 2 to reflect any changes made to the Conventions by the International Maritime Organisation or the International Civil Aviation Organisation, as the case may be.
Organisations are binding on the Republic in terms of section 231(2) of the Constitution or are self-executing as contemplated in section 231 (4) of the Constitution.
Establishment and object of South African Search and Rescue Organisation
(b) The Minister may only amend Schedules 1 and 2 if the changes made by the two 30
4. (1) The South African Search and Rescue Organisation is hereby established. (2) (a) The object of SASAR is to ensure a co-ordinated and effective maritime and 3 5
aeronautical search and rescue service within the South African search and rescue regions.
(b) Any person appointed in terms of this Act or concerned with the carrying out of the provisions thereof must perform his or her functions pursuant to the object of SASAR.
Composition of SASAR 30
5. (1) SASAR is made up of representatives from those government departments and commercial and voluntary organisations which are signatories to the SASAR manual. contemplated in section 15, and which are able to contribute services and facilities for use by SASAR, including representatives of-
(a) the Department; 35 (b) the South African Maritime Safety Authority; (c) the South African Civil Aviation Authority; (d) the Air Traffic and Navigation Services Company Limited; (e) the South African National Defence Force; cfl the South African Police Service; (8) the National Port Authority;
so
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Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT. 2002
( h ) the Department of Provincial and Local Government.
(a) an executive committee; (6) a maritime committee; and (c) an aeronautical committee. 5
(a) the persons appointed in terms of subsection (7): and ( 6 ) if necessary, such other members as may be nominated by the head of
SASAR, and appointed by the Director-General either permanently or on an ad hoc basis. 10
(2) SASAR has-
(3) The executive committee consists of-
(4) The executive committee must- (a) determine and put into effect the policy of SASAR; and (b) determine the size and composition of the other committees of SASAR
depending on the areas of speciality of the different members of SASAR. (5) The maritime and the aeronautical committees must assess the policy of SASAR 15
and make recommendations to the executive committee whenever any change is necessary.
(6) The executive committee is accountable to the Minister and the other committees of SASAR are accountable to the executive committee.
(7) The Director-General must appoint suitable persons from among the members of 20 SASAR to serve as-
(a) the head of SASAR, who is the chairperson of the executive committee and
(b) the head of aeronautical search and rescue operations who is the chairperson
(cl the head of maritime search and rescue operations. who is the chairperson of
(8) The different heads contemplated in subsection (7) must ensure that search and rescue operations are conducted in accordance with laid down standards and recommended practices as reflected in the SASAR Manual and as considered the norm 30 in terms of international agreements.
responsible for search and rescue operations by SASAR;
of the aeronautical committee; 25
the maritime committee.
Functions of SASAR
6. (1) SASAR must within its means and capabilities co-ordinate its resources t o - (a) search for. assist and, where appropriate, effect a rescue operation for-
(i) surv vors of aircraft crashes or forced landings; 35 (ii) the crew and passengers of vessels in distress;
(iii) survivors of maritime accidents or incidents: and (iv) survivors of any military aircraft or vessel accident or incident if such
(6) co-ordinate the evacuation of a seriously injured or ill person from a vessel at 40 sea where the person’s condition is such that he or she must obtain medical treatment sooner than that vessel would be able to get him or her to a suitable medical facility.
aircraft or vessel is not engaged in an act of war: and
(2) The functions set out in subsection ( l ) ( a ) exclude salvage operations. (3) SASAR, with the concurrence ofthe Minister, may call on any provider of a public 45
switched telecommunication service as contemplated in the Telecommunications Act, 1996 (Act No. 103 of 19961, or the entity contemplated in section 41( 11) of that Act. to lease or otherwise make available telecommunication facilities.
(4) SASAR must perform its functions in a manner which promotes efficient. economic and effective use of all resources.
(5) In performing its functions, SASAR must endeavour to co-operate with disaster management agencies established in terms of any law providing for the management of disasters.
50
(6) SASAR may perform its functions outside the Republic.
Meetings of SASAR 55
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Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
(b) discuss possible proposals to the Minister regarding amendments to this Act: or (c) discuss any other matter which the executive committee deems necessary.
(2) The head of SASAR must preside at any meeting of SASAR. (3) The executive committee must determine the rules of procedure at any meeting of
SASAR. 5
Meetings of committees
8. (1) The first meeting of any committee of SASAR after the commencement of this Act must be held at the time and place determined by the Director-General and all meetings thereafter must be held at the times and places that the committee determines.
committee to be held at the time and place determined by the chairperson.
committee.
committee and a decision agreed on by a majority of the members present at a duly 15 constituted meeting of a committee is a decision of that committee.
meeting has a casting vote in addition to a deliberative vote.
or she is unable to act as chairperson. 70
(2) The chairperson of a committee may at any time call a special meeting of the 10
(3) All members of a committee must be notified in writing of any meeting of that
(4) A majority of the total number of members forms a quorum at any meeting of a
(5) In the event of an equality of votes on any matter. the chairperson of the relevant
(6) The chairperson of a committee must designate a person to act as chairperson if he
(7) Each committee must meet at least twice a year.
Personnel
9. All administrative work in connection with the performance of the functions of SASAR must be carried out by officers in the Department designated for that purpose by the Director-General. 25
Search and rescue regions
10. (1) The Minister must, by notice in the Gazette as well as in relevant maritime and aeronautical publications, publish the search and rescue regions within which search and rescue services will be provided.
of responsibility of the Republic laid down by the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the International Maritime Organisation.
(2) The search and rescue regions contemplated in subsection (1) must cover the area 30
Rescue co-ordination centres and subcentres
11. (1) Subject to subsection ( 2 ) , the Minister must designate- (a) organisations or institutions to act as maritime or aeronautical rescue 35
(6) organisations or institutions to act as maritime or aeronautical rescue
(c) a maritime or aeronautical search and rescue region for which each rescue
(d) organisations or institutions to act as registrars and custodians of registers of
co-ordination centres;
subcentres under the auspices of rescue co-ordination centres;
co-ordination centre is responsible; and 40
emergency beacons contemplated in section 17. (2) Any designation contemplated in subsection (1) must be-
(a) done in accordance with an agreement reached with t e applicable
(b) published by the Minister by notice in the Gazerre as well as in relevant
(3) The organisations or institutions designated in terms of subsection (l)(a) and (b) must, with the concurrence of the executive committee of SASAR, appoint their respective chiefs. SO
(4) Each chief of a rescue co-ordination centre or rescue subcentre must establish and preside over an operational committee to discuss, evaluate and effect operational procedures.
organisation or institution; and 45
maritime and aeronautical publications.
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Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN .MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
(5) Operational committees must consist of persons representing organisations controlling the resources available to that rescue co-ordination centre or rescue subcentre.
Functions of rescue co-ordination centres and subcentres
12. ( 1 ) A chief of a rescue co-ordination centre or any person authorised by him or her 5 is responsible for co-ordinating available resources for the purpose of searching. assisting and, where appropriate, effecting a rescue operation in its search and rescue region.
(2) A chief of a rescue subcentre must support the chief of a rescue co-ordination centre in carrying out assigned duties in a particular area or instance. 10
(3) The designation of a search and rescue region contemplated in section 1 1 (I)(c) does not preclude a rescue co-ordination centre from-
(a ) operating in another region; or (6) performing the tasks of another rescue co-ordination centre.
Requisitioning of aircraft and vessels 15
13. (1 ) Subject to subsection (2), the Minister may for purposes of any aeronautical or maritime search and rescue operation-
(a) requisition any civil aircraft or vessel; (b ) request the assistance of any military aircraft or vessel; or (c) instruct any holder of a South African aircraft flight crew licence or the master 20
of a vessel to assist in the operation. ( 2 ) In a case where the Minister contemplates requisitioning a civilian aircraft or
vessel or instructing a civilian holder of a South African aircraft flight crew licence or the master of a vessel, the Minister may do so only if-
(a) human life is in immediate and grave danger; and 15 (b) there are no other means available to conduct the operation.
( 3 ) Any person who. without lawful reason, fails to give effect to a requisition or to comply with an instruction contemplated in subsection (1) is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years.
Recovery of certain expenses 30
14. (1) If any search and rescue operation is undertaken by SASAR in connection with any occurrence caused by the unlawful act or omission of any person, the Minister may recover from that person the whole or any portion of the expenses incurred by SASAR in connection with that operation.
( l ) , compensate any person who has incurred any loss or damage as a result of the operation.
(7) The Minister may, after having recovered the expenses contemplated in subsection 35
SASAR manual, and responsibilities of signatories thereto
15. (1) SASAR must compile a manual regarding search and rescue services and
( 2 ) The responsibilities of the signatories to the SASAR manual contemplated in operations and matters connected therewith and keep that manual up to date. 40
section 5( 1) must be set out in the manual and be executed in accordance with it.
Search and rescue measures regarding aircraft and vessels
16. ( 1 ) Subject to this Act, any search and rescue action must be undertaken in accordance with the SASAR manual. 35
(2) Where an aircraft has failed to reach its destination or is reported missing, SASAR must forthwith institute search and rescue action if the flight plan was filed prior to departure and the flight in question was-
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(a) between aerodromes where air tra5c services are provided. unless otherwise
(6) conducted in airspace within which air tra5c control services are provided.
(c) a flight to an aerodrome where air tra5c services are not prwided, if search 5
indicated on the flight plan or through aeronautical publications or notices:
except for flights crossing: a route at right angles; or
and rescue action is specifically requested by the pilot-in-command. (3) Search and rescue action must be instituted in respect of all flights for which flight
plans were filed in flight when such action is specifically requested by the pilot- in-command.
(4) Search and rescue action may be instituted- 1 0 (a) in respect of a flight for which no flight plan has been filed, when information
(b) for any aircraft which is believed to be in need of assistance. that the aircraft is overdue or missing is received from any source;
( 5 ) In an event contemplated in subsection (4), authorisation by the head of SASAR or his or her assignee must be obtained prior to the commencement of a search and 15 rescue operation and he or she must be kept informed of the progress made and the termination of the search and rescue action.
(6) SASAR must forthwith institute search and rescue action where a vessel is reported missing or in distxess.
Registration of emergency beacons 20
17. (1) The owner of any aircraft or vessel required to carry emergency locator beacons in terms of the Merchant Shipping Act. 1951 (Act No 57 of 1951) or the South African Civil Aviation Authority Act, 1998 (Act No 40 of 1998). as the case may be. must register such emergency locator beacons with the organisations or institutions designated in terms of section 11 (l)(d). 75
(2) The owner of any aircraft or vessel registered or licensed in the Republic and which carries emergency locator beacons although not required to do so by law, must register such emergency locator beacons with the organisations or institutions designated in terms of section 11 (l)(d).
Filing of d saster management and erodrome e rgency plans 30
18. [ 1) All aerodrome managers must file their emergency plans and any amendments thereto with the aeronautical rescue co-ordination centre.
(2) All heads of disaster management agencies established in terms of any law providing for the management of disasters must file their emergency plans in respect of aircraft incidents, and any amendrnents thereto, with the aeronautical rescue co- 35 ordination centre.
Reporting of aircraft or vessel in distress
19. (1) Any person who knows or has reason to believe that an aircraft or vessel is in distress must report the occurrence at the police station nearest to that person or at such other office or facility or to a dedicated emergency number as the executive committee 40 may determine.
facilities contemplated in subsection (1)- (a) by notice in the Gazette; arld (bj by means of the printed and electronic media so as to ensure wide publicity. 45
( 2 ) The Minister must publish the addresses and telephone numbers of the offices or
Co-operation between aeronautical rescue co-ordination centre and maritime rescue co-ordination centre
20. (1) The aeronautical rescue co-ordination centre and the maritime rescue co-ordination centre must exchange information freely and regularly to ensure effective and efficient provision of a search a d rescue s rvice. 50
(2) The aeronautical rescue co-ordination centre and the maritime rescue co- ordination centre must, with the prior approval of the executive committee of SASAR, hold joint exercises at least once a year to-
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(a) foster and maintain close co-operation; and (b) test SASAR’s capability to deal with search and rescue operations of an)
(3) The exercises contemplated in subsection ( 2 ) may be extended to include search and rescue organisations or service,s of foreign countries. 5
(4) The head of SASAR must ensure that the exercises contemplated in subsection (3) are organised in conjunction with both the aeronautical rescue co-ordination centre and the maritime rescue co-ordination centre.
magnitude.
Delegation and assignment
21. The Minister may- 10 ( a ) delegate any power conferred or assign any duty imposed upon the Minister
by this Act to an officer of the Department. except the power to publish notices or to make regulations; and
(b) at any time, withdraw a (delegation or assignment effected in terms of this section. 15
Report
22. ( 1 ) SASAR must furnish the Minister with a report on its activities- ( a ) at least once a year: and ( 6 ) whenever required by the Minister.
( 2 ) The Minister must table a copy of SASAR’s annual report in Parliament within 30 20 days after i t has been received by him or her if Parliament is then sitting and if Parliament is not sitting, within 14 days after the start of the next sitting.
Regulations
23. (1 1 The Minister may. by notice in the Gazerre. make regulations regarding- (a) the conditions which must be complied with when a person from another 15
country which is a party t o the conventions wishes to enter the Republic for purposes of any search and rescue operation;
(6) anything which must or may be prescribed in terms of this Act: (c ) any matter which it is necessary or expedient to prescribe for the effective
( 2 ) Any regulation made under subsection (l)(a) must be made with the concurrence carrying out or implementation of this Act. 30
of the Minister of Home Affairs.
Transitional provisions
24. ( 1 ) Any person who occupied a post or served in a particular capacity in the institution known as the South African Search and Rescue Organisation immediately 35 prior to the commencement of this Act continues to occupy or to serve in the corresponding post or capacity in SA.SAR.
( 2 ) Any person who received any allowance, remuneration or other benefit or privilege by virtue of a post or capaciry contemplated in subsection (1) must continue to receive such allowance, remuneration or other benefit or privilege from the same source 40 and in the same manner after the commencement of this Act.
(3) Unless otherwise provided for in this Act, any committee or subcommittee of the institution known as the South African Search and Rescue Organisation which existed immediately prior to the commencement of this Act continues to exist as if it were a committee referred to in section 5(2). 45
(4) Anything done in terms of a law repealed by section 25 and which could have been done in terms of this Act, is regarded as having been done in terms of this Act.
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Repeal of legislation
25. The laws mentioned in Schedule 3 are hereby repealed to the extent indicated i n the third column of that Schedule.
Short title
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SCHEDULE 1 (Section 3)
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE, 1979
THE PARTIES TO THE CONVENTION
NOTING the great importance attached in several conventions to the rendering of assistance to persons in distress at seal and to the establishment by every coastal State of adequate and effective arrangements for coast watching and for search and rescue services,
HAVING CONSIDERED Recommendation 40 adopted by the International Confer- ence on Safety of Life at Sea, 1960, which recognizes the desirability of co-ordinating activities regarding safety on and over the sea among a number of inter-governmental organizations,
DESIRING to develop and promote these activities by establishing an international maritime search and rescue plan responsible to the needs of maritime traffic for the rescue of persons in distress at sea,
WISHING to promote co-operation among search and rescue organizations around the world and among those participating in search and rescue operations at sea.
HAVE AGREED as follows:
Article I
Gerleral obligarions under the Con\-ention
The Parties undertake to adopt all legislative or other appropriate measures necessary to give full effect to the Convention and its Annex, which is an integral part of the Convention. Unless expressly provided otherwise, a reference to the Convention constitutes at the same time a reference to its Annex.
Article I1
Other treaties and interpretation
(1 1 Nothing in the Convention shall prejudice the codification and development of the law of the sea by the United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea convened pursuant to resolution 2750 (XXV) of the General Assembly of the United Nations nor the present or future claims and legal views of any State concerning the law of the sea and the nature and extent of coastal and flag State jurisdiction.
( 2 ) No provision of the Convention shall be construed as prejudicing obligations or rights of vessels provided for in other international instruments.
Article I11
Amendments
(1 ) The Convention may be amended by either of the procedures specified in
(2) Amendment after consideration within the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consul-
(a) Any amendment proposed by a Party and transmitted to the Secretary- General of the Organization (hereinafter referred to as the Secretary- General), or any amendment deemed necessary by the Secretary-General as a result of an amendment to ,a corresponding provision of Annex 12 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, shall be circulated to all Members of the Organization and all Parties at least six months prior to its consideration by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization.
paragraphs (2) and ( 3 ) hereinafter.
tative Organization (hereinafter referred to as the Organization):
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Parties, whether or not Members of the Organization, shall be entitled to participate in the proceedings of the Maritime Safety Committee for the consideration and adoption of amendments. Amendments shall be adopted by a two-thirds majority of the Parties present and voting in the Maritime Safety Committee on condition that at least one third of the Parties shall be present at the time of adoption of the amendment. Amendments adopted in accordance with sub-paragraph (c) shall be communicated by the Secretary-General to all Parties for acceptance. An amendment to an Article: or to paragraphs 2.1.4,2.1.5,2.1.7.2.1.10, 3.1.2 or 3.1.3 of the Annex shall be deemed to have been accepted on the date on which the Secretary-General has received an instrument of acceptance from two thirds of the Parties. An amendment to the Annex other than to paragraphs 2.1.4. 2.1.5. 2.1.7, 2.1.10,3.1.2 or 3.1.3 shall be deemed to have been accepted at the end of one year from the date on which it is communicated to the Parties for acceptance. However, if within such period of one year more than one third of the Parties notify the Secretary-General that they object to the amendment. it shall be deemed not to have been ac'cepted. An amendment to an Article or to paragraphs 2.1.4,2.1.5, 2.1.7. 2.1. 10, 3.1.2 or 3.1.3 of thz Annex shall enter into force: (i) with respect to those Parties which have accepted it, six months after the
date on which it is deemed to have been accepted; (ii) with respect to those Parties which accept it after the condition
mentioned in sub-paragraph (e) has been met and before the amendment enters into force, on the date of entry into force of the amendment;
(iii) with respect to those Parties which accept it after the date on which the amendment enters into force, 30 days after the deposit of an instrument of acceptance.
(h) An amendment to the Annex other than to paragraphs 2.1.4. 2.1.5. 2.1.7. 2.1.10, 3.1.2 or 3.1.3 shall enter into force with respect to all Parties, except those which have objected 'to the amendment under sub-paragraph (0 and which have not withdrawn such objections, six months after the date on which it is deemed to have been accepted. However, before the date set for entry into force, any Party may give nol.ice to the Secretary-General that it exempts itself from giving effect to that amendment for a period not longer than one year from the date of its entry into force, or for such longer period as may be determined by a two-thirds majority of the Parties present and voting in the Maritime Safety Committee at the time of the adoption of the amendment.
(3) Amendment by a conference: Upon the request of a Party concurred in by at least one third of the Parties. the Organization shall convene a conference of Parties to consider amendments to the Convention. Proposed amendments shall be circulated by the Secretary- General to ail Parties at least six months prior to their consideration by the conference. Amendments shall be adopted by such a conference by a two-thirds majority of the Parties present and voting, on condition that at least one third of the Parties hall be present al: the time of adoption of the amendment. Amendments so adopted shall be communicated by the Secretary-General to all Parties for acceptance. Unless the conference decides otherwise, the amendment shall be deemed to have been accepted and shall enter into force in accordance with the procedures pecified in subl-paragraphs (2)(e), (2)(f), (2)(g). and (2)(h) respectively, provided that reference in sub-paragraph (2)(h) to the Maritime Safety Committee expanded in accordance with sub-paragraph (2)(b) shall be taken to mean reference to the conference.
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(4) Any declaration of acceptance of, or objection to, an amendment or any notice given under sub-paragraph (2)(h) shall be submitted in writing to the Secretary-General who shall inform all Parties of any such submission and the date of its receipt.
(5) The Secretary-General shall inform States of any amendments, which enter into force, together with the date on which each such amendment enters into force.
Article IV
Signature, ratification, acceptance, approval and accession
(1) The Convention shall remain open for signature at the Headquarters of the Organization from 1 November 1979 until 31 October 1980 and shall thereafter remain open for accession. States may become Parties to the Convention by:
(a) signature without reservation as to ratification, acceptance or approval; or (b) signature subject to ratification, acceptance or approval, followed by
(c) accession. ratification, acceptance or approval; or
(2) Ratification, acceptance, approval or accession shall be effected by the deposit of an instrument to that effect with the Secretary-General.
(3) The Secretary-General shall inform States of any signature or of the deposit of any instrument of ratification, acceptance. approval or accession and the date of its deposit.
Article V
Entry into force
(1) The Convention shall enter into force 12 months after the date on which 15 States have become Parties to it in accordance with Article IV.
( 2 ) Entry into force for States which ratify, accept, approve or accede to the Convention in accordance with Article IV after the condition prescribed in paragraph ( I ) has been met and before the Convention enters into force, shall be on the date of entry into force of the Convention.
(3) Entry into force for States which ratify, accept, approve or accede to the Convention after the date on which the Convention enters into force shall be 30 days after the date of deposit of an instrument in accordance with Article IV.
(4) Any instrument of ratification, alcceptance. approval or accession deposited after the date of entry into force of an amlendment to the Convention in accordance with Article I11 shall apply to the Convention, as amended, and the Convention, as amended, shall enter into force for a State depositing such an instrument 30 days after the date of its deposit.
( 5 ) The Secretary-General shall inform States of the date of entry into force of the Convention.
Article VI
Denunciation
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(3) A denunciation shall take effect one year, or such longer period as may be specified in the instrument of denunciation, aft.er its receipt by the Secretary-General.
Article VI1
Deposit and registration
( 1 1 The Convention shall be deposited with the Secretary-General who shall transmit certified true copies thereof to States.
( 2 ) AS soon as the Convention enters into force, the Secretary-General shall transmit the text thereof to the Secretary-Gemeral of the United Nations for registration and publication, in accordance with Article 102 of the Charter of the United Nations.
’4rticle VI11
Languages
The Convention is established in a single copy in the Chinese. English, French. Russian and Spanish languages. each text being equally authentic. Official translations in the Arabic. German and Italian language!; shall be prepared and deposited with the signed original.
DONE AT HAMBURG this twenty-seventh day of April one thousand nine hundred and seventy-nine.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned*. being duly authorized by their respective Governments for that purpose, have signed the Convention.
* Signatures Otnitted
ANNEX
CHAPTER 1
Terms and definitions
1.1 “Shall” is used in the Annex to indicate a provision, the uniform application of which by all Parties is required in the interest of safety of life at sea.
1.2 “Should” is used in the Annex to indicate a provision. the uniform application of which by all Parties is recommended in the interest of safety of life at sea.
1.3 The terms listed below are used in the Annex with the foilowing meanings: . I Search. An operation, normally co-ordinated by a rescue co-ordination
centre or rescue sub-centre, using available personnel and facilities to locate persons in distress;
.2 Rescue. An operation to retrieve persons in distress, provide for their initial medical or other needs, and deliver them to a place of safety;
.3 Search and rescue service. The performance of distress monitoring, communication, co-ordination and search and rescue functions, includ- ing provision of medical advice, initial medical assistance, or medical evacuation, through the use of public and private resources including co-operating aircraft, vessels and other craft and installations;
.4 Search and rescue region. An area of defined dimensions associated with a rescue co-ordination centre within which search and rescue services are provided;
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2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2.
2.1.3
.5 Rescue co-ordination centre. A unit responsible for promoting efficient organization of search and rescue services and for co-ordinating the conduct of search and rescue operations within a search and rescue region;
.6 Rescue sub-centre. A unit subordinate to a rescue co-ordination centre established to complement the latter according to particular provisions of the responsible authorities;
.7 Search and rescue facili9. Any mobile resource, including designated search and rescue units, used to conduct search and rescue operations;
.8 Search and rescue unit. A unit composed of trained personnel and provided with equipment suitable for the expeditious conduct of search and rescue operations;
.9 Alerting post. Any facility intended to serve as an intermediary between a person reporting an emergency and a rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre;
.10 Emergency phase. A generic term meaning, as the case may be, uncertainty phase, alert. phase or distress phase;
. I1 Uncertainty phase. A situation wherein uncertainty exists as to the safety of a person, a vessel or other craft;
.12 Alert phase. A situation wherein apprehension exists as to the safety of a person, a vessel or other craft;
.13 Distress phase. A situation wherein there is a reasonable certainty that a person, a vessel or other craft is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance;
.14 On-scene co-ordinator. A person designated to co-ordinate search and rescue operations within a specified area;
.I5 Secretary-General. The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization.
CHAPTER 2
ORGANIZATION AND CO-ORDINATION
Arrangements for provision and co-ordination of search and rescue services Parties shall, as they are able to do so individually or in co-operation with other States and, as appropriate, with the Organization, participate in the development of search and rescue services to ensure that assistance is rendered to any person in distress at sea. On receiving information that any person is, or appears to be, in distress at sea. the responsible authorities of a Party shall take urgent steps to ensure that the necessary assistance is provided. Parties shall, either individually or, if appropriate, in co-operation with other States, establish the following basic elements of a search and rescue service:
. I legal framework;
.2 assignment of a responsible authority;
.3 organisation of available resources;
.4 communication facilities;
.5 co-ordination and operational functions; and
.6 processes to improve the service including planning, domestic and
Parties shall, as far as practicable, follow relevant minimum standards and guidelines developed by the Organization. To help ensure the provision of adequate shore-based communication infrastructure, efficient distress alert routeing, and proper operational co- ordination to effectively support search and rescue services, Parties shall, individually or in co-operation with other States, ensure that sufficient search and rescue regions are establnshed within each sea area in accordance with paragraphs 2.1.4 and 2.1.5. Such regions should be contiguous and, as far as practicable, not overlap.
international co-operative relationships and training.
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2.1.4 Each search and rescue region shall be established by agreement among Parties concerned. The Secretary-General shall be notified of such a, oreement.
2.1.5 In case agreement on the exact dimensions of a search and rescue region is not reached by the Parties concerned, those Parties shall use their best endeavours to reach agreement upon appropriate arrangements under which the equiva- lent overall co-ordination of search and rescue services is provided in the area. . The Secretary-General shall be notified of such arrangements.
2.1.6 Agreement on the regions or arrangements referred to in paragraphs 21.4 and 2.1.5 shall be recorded by the Parties concerned, or in written plans accepted by the Parties.
2.1.7 The delimitation of search and rescue regions is not related to and shall not prejudice the delimitation of any boundary between States.
2.1.8 Parties should seek to promote consistency, where applicable. between their maritime and aeronautical search and rescue services while considering the establishment of maritime search and rescue regions which shall be established by agreement in accordance with paragraph 2.1.4 or the reaching of agreement upon appropriate arrangements in accordance with paragraph 2.1.5.
2.1.9 Parties having accepted responsibility to provide search and rescue services for a specified area shall use search and rescue units and other available facilities for providing assistance to a person who is, or appears to be, in distress at sea.
2.1.10 Parties shall ensure that assistance be provided to any person in distress at sea. They shall do so regardless of the nationality or status of such a person or the circumstances in which that person is found.
2.1.11 Parties shall forward to the Secretary-General information on their search and rescue service, including the:
.1 national authority responsible for the maritime search and rescue services;
.2 location of the established rescue co-ordination centres or other centres providing search and rescue co-ordination, for the search and rescue region or regions and communications therein;
.3 limits of their search and rescue region or regions and the coverage provided by their shore-based istress and safety communication facilities: and
.4 principal types of available search and rescue units. Parties shall, with priority, update the information provided n:ith respect to any alterations of importance. The Secretary-General shall transmit to all Parties the information received.
2.1.12 The Secretary-General shall notify all Parties of the agreements or arrange- ments referred to in paragraph 2.1.4 and 2.1.5.
2.2. Development of national search and rescue services 2.2.1 Parties shall establish appropriate national procedures for overall develop-
ment, co-ordination, and improvement of search and rescue services. 2.2.2 To support efficient search and rescue operations, Parties shall:
. I ensure the co-ordinated use of available facilities; and
.2 establish close co-operation between services and organizations which may contribute to improve the search and rescue service in areas such as operations, planning, training, exercises and research and development.
2.3 Establishment of rescue co-ordination centres and rescue sub-centres 2.3.1 To meet the requirements of paragraphs 2.2, Parties shall individually or in
co-operation with other States establish rescue co-ordination centres for their search and rescue services and such rescue sub-centres as they consider appropriate.
2.3.2 Each rescue co-ordination centre and rescue sub-centre, established in accordance with paragraph 2.3.1, shall arrange for the receipt of distress alerts originating from within its search and rescue region. Every such centre shall also arrange for communications with persons in distress, with search and rescue facilities, and with other rescue co-ordination centres or rescue sub-centres.
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2.3.3 Each rescue co-ordination centre shall be operational on a 24-hour basis and be constantly staffed by trained personnel having a working knowledge of the English language.
2.4 Co-ordination with aeronautical services 2.4.1 Parties shall ensure the closest practicable co-ordination between maritime
and aeronautical services so as to provide for the most effective and efficient search and rescue services in and over their search and rescue regions.
2.4.2 Whenever practicable, each Party should establish joint rescue co-ordination centres and rescue sub-centres to serve both maritime and aeronautical purposes.
2.4.3 Whenever separate maritime and aeronautical rescue co-ordination centres or rescue sub-centres are established to serve the same area, the Party concerned shall ensure the closest practicable co-ordination between the centres or sub-centres.
2.4.4 Parties shall ensure as far as is possible the use of common procedures by search and rescue units established for maritime purposes and those established for aeronautical purposes.
2.5 Designation of search and rescue facilities Parties shall identify all facilities able to participate in search and rescue operations, and may designale suitable facilities as search and rescue units.
2.6 Equipment of search and rescue units 2.6.1 Each search and rescue unit shall be provided with equipment appropriate to
its task. 2.6.2 Containers and packages containing survival equipment for dropping to
survivors should have the general nature of their contents indicated by markings in accordance with standards adopted by the Organization.
CHAPTER 3
CO-OPERATION BETWEEN STATES
3.1 Co-operation between States 3.1.1 Parties shall co-ordinate their search and rescue organizations and should.
whenever necessary, co-ordinate search and rescue operations with those of neighbouring States.
3.1.2 Unless otherwise agreed between the States concerned. a Party should authorize. subject to applicable national laws, rules and regulations. immedi- ate entry into or over its territorial sea or temtory of rescue units of other Parties solely for the purpose of searching for the position of maritime casualties and rescuing the survivors of such casualties. In such cases, search and rescue operations shall, as far as practicable. be co-ordinated by the appropriate rescue co-ordination centre of the Party which has authorized entry, or such other authority as has been designated by that Party.
3.1.3 Unless otherwise agreed between the States concerned, the authorities of a Party which wishes its rescue units to enter into or over the territorial sea or territory of another Party solely for the purpose of searching for the position of maritime casualties and rescuing the survivors of such casualties. shall transmit a request, giving full details of the projected mission and the need for it. to the rescue co-ordination centre of that other Party, or to such other authority as has been designated by that Party.
3.1.4 The responsible authorities of Parties shall: . I immediately acknowledge the receipt of such a request; and .2 as soon as possible indicate the conditions, if any, under which the
3.1.5 Parties should enter into agreements with neighbouring States setting forth the conditions for entry of each other’s rescue units into or over their respective territorial sea or temtory. These agreements hould also provide for expediting entry of such units with the least possible formalities.
projected mission may be undertaken.
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3.1.6 Each Party should authorize its rescue co-ordination centres: .1 to request from other rescue co-ordination centres such assistance.
including vessels, aircraft, personnel or equipment, as may be needed; .2 to grant any necessary permission for the entry or such vessels. aircraft,
personnel or equipment into or over its territorial sea or temtory; and .3 to make the necessary arrangements with the appropriate customs.
immigration, health or other authorities with a view to expediting such entry.
3.1.7 Each Party shall ensure that its rescue co-ordination centres provide, when requested, assistance to other rescue co-ordination centres, including assis- tance in the form of vessels, aircraft, personnel or equipment.
3. I .8 Parties should enter into agreements with other States, where appropriate, to strengthen search and rescue co-operation and co-ordination. Parties shall authorize their responsible authority to make operational plans and arrange- ments for search and rescue co-operation with responsible authorities of other States.
CHAPTER 4
OPERATING PROCEDURES
4.1 Preparatory measures 4.1.1 Each rescue co-ordination centre and rescue sub-centre shall have available
up-to-date information especially concerning search and rescue facilities and available communications re,levant to search and rescue operations in its area.
4.1.2 Each rescue co-ordination centre and rescue sub-centre should have ready access to information regarding the position, course and speed of vessels within its area which may be able to provide assistance IO persons. vessels or other craft in distress at sea, and regarding how to contact them. This information should either be kept in the rescue co-ordination centre, or be readily obtainable when necessary .
4.1.3 Each rescue co-ordination centre and rescue sub-centre shall have detailed plans of operation for the conduct of search and rescue operations. Where appropriate, these plans shall be developed jointly with the representatives of those who may assist in providing, or who may benefit from, the search and rescue services.
4.1.4 Rescue co-ordination centres or sub-centres shall be kept informed of the state of preparedness of search and rescue units.
4.2 Information concerning emergencies 4.2.1 Parties, either individually or in co-operation with other States, shall ensure
that they are capable on a 24-hour basis of promptly and reliably receiving distress alerts from equipment used for this purpose within their search and rescue regions. Any alerting post receiving a distress alert shall: . 1 immediately relay the alert to the appropriate rescue co-ordination centre
or sub-centre, and then assist search and rescue communications as appropriate; and
.2 if practicable, acknowledge the alert. 4.2.2 Parties shall, where appropriate, ensure that effective arrangements are in
place for the registration of communication equipment and for responding to emergencies, to enable any rescue co-ordination centre or sub-centre to access pertinent registration information quickly.
4.2.3 Any authority or element of the search and rescue service having reason to believe that a person, a vessel or other craft is in a state of emergency shall forward as soon as possible all available information to the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue: sub-centre concerned.
4.2.4 Rescue co-ordination centres and rescue sub-centres shall, immediately upon receipt of information concerning a person, a vessel, or other craft in a state of emergency, evaluate such information and determine th phase of emergency in accordance with paragraph 4.4, and the extent of operations required.
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4.3 Initial action Any search and rescue unit receiving information of a distress incident shall initially take immediate action if in the position to assist and shall, in any case without delay, notify the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre in whose area the incident has occurred.
4.4 Emergency Phase To assist in determining the appropriate operating procedures, the following emergency phases shall be distinguished by the rescue co-ordination centre or sub-centre concerned:
.1.1 when a person has been reported as missing, or a vessel or other craft is
.1.2 when a person, a vessel or other craft has failed to make an expected
.l Uncertainty phase:
overdue; or
position or safety report. .2 Alert Phase
2 . 1 when, following the uncertainty phase, attempts to establish contact with a person, a vessel or other craft have failed and inquiries to other appropriate sources have been unsuccessful; or
.2.2 when information has been received indicating that the operating efficiency of a vessel or other craft is impaired, but not to the extent that a distress situation is likely.
.3 Distress phase: .3.1 when positive informai.ion is received that a person, a vessel or other
craft is in danger and in need of immediate assistance; or .3.2 when, following the ,alert phase, further unsuccessful attempts to
establish contact with a person, a vessel or other craft and more widespread unsuccessful inquiries point to the probability that a distress situation exists; or
.3.3 when information is received which indicates that the operating efficiency of a vessel or other craft has been impaired to the extent that a distress situation is likely.
4.5 Procedures to be followed by rescue co-ordination centres and rescue sub-centres during emergency phases
4.5.1 Upon the declaration of the uncertainty phase, the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre, as appropriate, shall initiate inquiries to determine the safety of a person, a vessel or other craft, or shall declare the alert phase.
4.5.2 Upon the declaration of the alert phase, the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre, as appropriate, shall extend the inquiries for the missing person, vessel or other craft, alert appropriate search and rescue services and initiate such action, as is necessary in the light of the circumstances of the particular case.
4.5.3 Upon the declaration of the distress phase, the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre, as appropriate, shall proceed as prescribed in its plans of operation, as required by paragraph 4.1.
4.5.4 Initiation of search and rescue operations in respect of a vessel whose positiorz is unknown In the event of an emergency phase being declared for a search object whose position is unknown, the foliowing shall apply: .1 when an emergency phase exists, a rescue co-ordination centre or rescue
sub-centre shall, unless it is aware that other centres are taking action, assume responsibility for initiating suitable action and confer with other centres with the objective of designating one centre to assume responsibility;
.2 unless otherwise decided by agreement between the centres concerned. the centre to be designated shall be the centre responsible for the area in which the search object was according to its last reported position; and
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.3 after the declaration of the distress phase, the centre co-ordinating the search and rescue operations shall, if appropriate, inform other centres of all the circumstances of the emergency and of all subsequent develop- ments.
4.5.5 Passing information topersons, vessels or other craft for which a11 emergency phase has been declared Whenever possible, the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre responsible for search and rescue operations shall forward to the person, a vessel or other craft for which an emergency phase has been declared. information on the search and rescue operations it has initiated.
4.6 Co-ordination when two or more Parties are involved For search and rescue operations involving more than one Party. each Party shall take appropriate action in accordance with the plans of operation referred to in paragraph 4.1 when so requested by the rescue co-ordination centre of the region.
4.7 On-scene co-ordination of search and rescue activities 4.7.1 The activities of search and rescue units and other facilities engaged in search
and rescue operations shall be co-ordinated on-scene to ensure the most effective results.
4.7.2 When multiple facilities are ilbout to engage in search and rescue operations. and the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre considers it necessary. the most capable person should be designated as on-scene co-ordinator as early as practicable and preferably before the facilities arrive within the specified area of operation. Specific responsibilities shall be assigned to the on-scene co-ordinator, taking into account the apparent capabilities of the on-scene co-ordinator and operational requirements.
4.7.3 If there is no responsible rescue co-ordination centre or. for any reason. the responsible rescue co-ordination centre is unable to co-ordinate the search and rescue mission, the facilities involved should designate an on-scene co- ordinator by mutual agreement.
4.8 Termination and suspension of search and rescue operations 4.8.1 Search and rescue operations shall continue. when practicable. until all
reasonable hope of rescuing survivors has passed. 4.8.2 The responsible rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre concerned
shall normally decide when to discontinue search and rescue operations. If no such centre is involved in co-ordinating the operations. the on-scene co-ordinator may take this decision.
4.8.3 When a rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre considers, on the basis of reliable information., that a search and rescue operation has been successful, or that the emergency no longer exists, it shall terminate the search and rescue operation and promptly so inform any authority, facility or service which has been activated or notified.
4.8.4 If search and rescue operation on-scene becomes impracticable and the rescue co-ordination centre or rescue sub-centre concludes that survivors might still be alive, the centre may temporarily suspend the on-scene activities pending further developments, and shall promptly so inform any authority. facility or service which has been activated or notified. Information subsequently received shall be evaluated and search and rescue operations resumed when justified on the basis of such information.
CHAPTER 5
SHIP REPORTING SYSTEMS
5.1 General 5.1.1 Ship reporting systems may be established either individually by Parties or in
co-operation with other States, where this is considered necessary, to facilitate search and rescue operations.
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5.1.2 Parties contemplating the institution of a ship reporting system should take account of the relevant recommendations of the Organization. Parties should also consider whether existing reporting systems or other sources of ship position data can provide adequate information for the region. and seek to minimize unnecessary additional reports by ships, or the need for rescue co-ordination centres to check with multiple reporting systems to determine availability of ships to assist with search and rescue operations.
5.1.3 The ship reporting system should provide up-to-date information on the movements of vessels in order, in the event of a distress incident, to:
.1 reduce the interval between the loss of contact with a vessel and the initiation of search and rescue operations in cases where no distress signal has been received;
.2 permit rapid identification of vessels which may be called upon to provide assistance;
.3 permit delineation of a search area of limited size in case the position of a person. a vessel or other craft in distress is unknown or uncertain: and
.4 facilitate the provision 'of urgent medical assistance or adjsice.
5.2 Operational requirements 5.2.1 Ship reporting systems should satisfy the following requirements:
. I provision of information, including sailing plans and position reports. which would make it possible to determine the current and future positions of participating vessels;
.2 maintenance of a shipping plot;
.3 receipt of reports at appropriate intervals from participating vessels:
.4 simplicity in system design and operation: and
.5 use of an internationally agreed standard ship reporting format and procedures.
5.3 Types of reports 5.3.1 A ship reporting system should incorporate the following types of ship reports
in accordance with the recommendations of the Organization: . I Sailing plan; .2 Position report: and .3 Final report.
5.4 Use of systems 5.4.1 Parties should encourage all vessels to report their positions when travelling in
areas where arrangements have been made to collect information on positions for search and rescue purposes.
5.4.2 Parties recording information on the position of vessels should disseminate. so far as practicable, such information to other States when so requested for search and rescue purposes.
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SCHEDULE 2 (Section 3) SEARCH AND RESCUE ANNEX 12
TO THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION
FOREWORD
Historical background
In k m k 1946. the Search and Rescue Division,, at its second session, made pmnmendations for Smdards and Recommended Practices for Scarch and Rescue. These were devclopd by the Smuariat and the then existent Air Navigation CommineC; and were duly submitted to the Council. The proposals were nm accepted by thc Council in the form in which they were presented and, on 20 April 1948, wue rcfemd back to the A i r Navigation Commirtee for futthcr consirkration.
expcnence gained B1 Regional Air Navigation Meetings and A further draft Annex was then developed in the light of
eventually was approved in principle by the Air Navigation Commission and circulated to Starcs for comment. Eurther development was made by the Air Navigation Commission as a result of States’ comments and the resulting proposals were adopted by fhc C m c i l on 25 May 1950 and designated as
The Annex became effective on 1 k e m b e r 1950 and came Annex 12 to the Convenuon on International Civil Avlation.
into force on I March 1951.
together with a list of the pnncipal subjects involved and the Table A shows the origin df subsequent amendments
dates on which the Annex and the amendments were a d o w by the Councrl. when they became effective and when they kame applicable.
Applicability
The Standards and Recommended Practices in this document govern the application of the R c g i o ~ l S u p p l e ~ n t a r y
which document will be found subsidiary procedu~:~ of Procedures - Search and Rescue, conmned in Doc 7030, in regional application.
Annex 12 is appltcable to the establishment, maintenance and operation of search and rescue servlces in the terntories of Contracting States and over the hrgh s e a . and to, the coordination of such services between Stam.
Actiou by Contrnetiog States
Non3cation of differences. The attention of Contracting States is drawn to the obligauon Imposed by Article 38 of the Convention by wbch Contrachng States are rqulred to noufy the Organizatton of any differences between their nauonal regulations and pracuces and the Internattonal Stantlards
contained in this Annex and any amendments thereto. Contracting States arc invited to extend such notificauon to any diffcmv.%s from the Recommended Prachces conmned in this Annex, and any amendments thereto. when the noti- fication of such differences is imponant for the safety of o r navigation. hrrther. Contracting States are mvlted to keep the Organization cumntly informed of any differences whlch may subsquenIly m r . or of the withdrawal of any differences previously notified. A specific request for notificatton of diffmnces will be sent to Contracting Slates immediately after the adopaon of each Amendment to this Annex.
Attention of States is also drawn to the provisions of Annex 15 related to the publication of differences between
StandKds and Recommnded Practices through the their national regulations and pracuccs and the related ICAO
Aeronauucal Information Service. In addition to the obligauon of States under Anicle 38 of the Convention.
Promlgarion of informarion Information relating to the establishment and withdrawal of and changes to faciliues. services and pmedures affkcting aircraft operations provided according to the Standards and Recommended Practices specified in this Annex should be notified and take effect tn accordance with Annex IS.
Use of r h e tm of rhe ANVX in MU OM^ regulorionr. The Council. on 13 April 1948, adopted a resolution rnvillng the attention of Contracting Slates to the desnability of usmg rn their own national regulations, as far as pramcable. the precise language of lhose ICAO Standards that are of a regulatory character and also of indicating departures from the Standards. including any additional national regulauons that were imponant for the safety or regularity of air navlgation. Wherever possible. the provisions of this Annex have been written in such a way as would factlitate incorporation. without major textual changes, into national Iegrslanon.
Status of Annex components
An Annex is made up of the following component pans. not all of which. however, are necesssrily found in every Annex; they have the status indicated:
1.- Moferiot comprising the Annex proper:
a) Standards and Recommended Pracrxer adopted by the Council under the provisions of the Convention. They are defined as follows:
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Sfandord Any specification for physical characteristics, configuration. mat6riel. perfomunce. personnel or prcccdm thc uniform application of which is nxogolzed as ncccs~ary for the safety or regularity of international air navigation and to which Contracting S t a m wil conform in accordance with tbe Cwvention; in the event of impossibility of compliance, notification to the Council is compulsory under Article 38.
Recommrndrd Pl lmier . Any spaitication for physical chprsctcri~cs. foRfguraIim mallsiel. performanq pmonoel or pmccdure. the uniform application of which is recognized as desirable in the in- of safety. regularity or efficiency of inksnational lir naviguion. and lo which Contracting States will ndtpvarr to mnfom in acsordpnce with tbc convmtion.
b) Appendices comprising nmuial pupd separately for u m v c n i w but forming part of the Sundvds and Rsommmded PRCticw adopted by the Council.
C)Dq%unorLs of tams used in the slanduds and Recommndcd PREtisu which arc not relf-expl.nntory in lhat lhey do not have afccptcd dictionary munings. A definition dom not have an independent s u u s bur is UI wscntial ppn of each Standard and Recommended R.aiainwhichtheMnisuw4sincerchurFinthe meaning of the tcrm would affect the spcificuion.
acraintion with the Stmkiardr and R c c m n d e d Pmrriccs.' 2- Mareriel approved by the Council for puMicnrion in
a) Forcvords comprising historical and e x p h a m y matcri.l brsed on chc mion of the Cowdl and including explwtion of the obligation of Suta with
Rec~mmcndcd Practices ensuing fmm the Convmtim re@ IO IIK rppliution of the Sundards and
and the Resolution of Adoption.
b) lnnodvnionr compising explanatory matuial in- duced at IJC beginning of parts, chapters or sections of the A n n x u, assist in the undmtmh application of the t e x ~
' 8 of tbe
c) Nmer included in thc text whac appmprinu. fo give factual informarion or references bepring on the
not constituting part of the Standards or Recommended SWdards or Rccanmended Practices in question, buf
Practices
d) Annchrmntr comprising material supplcmenlary to the Srsndanls and Recommended Practices, or included as a guide to their applicarion.
sdectim d ~ a l g e
ms h n ~ been'doptcd in five hguages - English Atabic, Frmch Russian and Spanish. Each Confracting State
natid implementation and for other effects provided for in is rqumcd to select one of those texts for the purpose of
th Convention. either through direct use or through translation into iu own national language, and to notify the organilation acmrdingly.
Editorial practices
The following p n a i c e bas b a n adhad to in order to indicate at a glance tbe ~ufu3 of each s m m c n t : 9&r& have been
been printcd in light face italics. the status being indicated hy printed in light face mman; Recommrnded Pmctices have
the w t i x -W, Nom have been printed in light face italics, lhe status being indicated by the prefix Now.
writing of spsifcations: for S w d r r d s the operative verb The following editorial pnctice has been followed in the
"shall" is used, m d for RcMmmmded Practices the operative verb "shaulb' is used
Thmugbout this dlxlment
a) mBsuIcments M given in the m u i c system followed in parrnthews by corresponding ~ r e m c n t s in the fool-pound s y s m : and
b) the use of the male gender should be understood to include male snd female persons.
Any rcfuarce to a ponion of this dMlmmt, which is
that ponion. identified by a number andlor rille, includcs all subdivisions of
44 No. 23248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL ~~
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1 It Ediuon
I (2nd EdrUon)
2 (3rd Ednion)
3
4
(4th Edmon)
5
6
7
8
9 csm EdnLon)
10
Search and Rescue Division. Second Session (1946)
Cormusion Aa Navlgauon
Search and Rescue Division. Thd Sesrlon (1951)
Scmnd Air Navigation Conference (1955)
W d Air Nawgation Confcrencc (1956). AmCndmcnl 1 4 0 to Annex 6. C h q m 6
Rules of lk Aa. Air Traff~c Scrvres and Search and Rcscuc Divtslons (1958)
Amcndmcnl 13 IO Annex 1 I
Amendment 4 to Annex 9
Amendment 14 to Annex I I, Chapltr 5
Internalronal convenuon fw lk Safety of Llfe at Sea. Amendment I 5 lo Annex I I
Commnrm I N ~ W of A n Nawgauon
the Rcglonnl Supplcmntuy Roccdurcs
Alr Navlgauon Commissnon
SeMh and rescue CqMimlian: WrNnUNCPUOa(; ~ppnidslr of search and rucue OpaaIionl; pffedum f a m h md rescue; arr-lc-grOOuml signals.
Rescue sub-ccnm; scniclng md refuelling m u e uniu of orhn Conrncttng Sam.
Marking of arcas of rhs hxlagc suitable for brrak-in.
Ccopation b n w m Sutes: i n f m u o n conccrnmg cmngcnctes; procedures for rescue cmdlnation centres.
Notification of rescue coordinntmn centres by air oaffic servtccs "mu
Temporary entry of resac unlU from other Conmcung S w r .
Updaung of reference: a l m n g m i c e
Coomuon between Contractinn Sates: serv~cm~ and refuellane of
25 May 1950 1 Doember 1950 I March 1951
31 March 19S2
1 January 19S3 I Scptcmbcr 1952
8 May 1956 I September 1956 I tkcembcr 1956
13 Junc 1957 I October 1957 1 December 1957
8 December 1959 I May 1960 1 August 1964
13 Apnl 1962
1 November 1962 -
-
1 July 1964
I9 Junc 1 9 6 4
-
1 November 1964 I February 1%5
IO December 1965
25 August 1966 -
25 Mav 1910 rexue unlu of other Conmctmg-Stars; testing &mh m d reme 25 Sc&mber 1970 comunlcal~on~ facilities; assistance in search and rescue opcmuons by 4 Febmary 1911 addtuonal u n ~ u OT SCIVIECS.
Camage of the lnlemauonal Code of Signals by search md rescue 11 tkccmbcr 1972 u d l : qulpmenl of m h and rescue l i d t with frequency 2182 kHz: infamalion on p e o n of merchant rhtps,
II Apnl 1973 L6 August 1913
46 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
Adoprcdopprovcd
Applicable Eflecrrvr Amnmndnum Swrcc(sJ Sublccrfr)
(6th Ediuon) AMCX by h e An on a 2 6 h w basts; dissemination of informarm on powson of Navlgruon Commisrton machant sbw. appraisals of search and rescue operauonr;
25 March 1975
improvement of eoopndon be-n neighbzmring Suter; equipment of rescue uniu: availability of infmauon on air M s c services; location of mappable rurv~vai equtpmenr; methods for
renduvous wth surface craft: methodr for assisting s e m h and assisting nirwn in d l s w and bclng compelled to d m h to
RICUC 01 OW nwcraFt10 rendclvws with aimaft in dmrcrs.
12 Amendmsnl M) la Supplcmnlary commun&n facilities bstwcen meteomlogical offices ad warch and resue uniu.
8 December 1975
12 August 1976 8 Apnl 1976
I 1 Complele r wew of he New signal to surface mh: pmvlslon of seanh and rescue serv~cc~ 25 November 1974
9 October 1975
A M ~ X 3
13 A s Nawgauon Cammusion
Ground-ar vlmal s ~ g n a i codc fa use by runivcn.
14 Atr Nwigabon Commtssion
Rucue cmrdinatlon centn (RCO relpoluibiliues regarding Prq~araIary measures in the even1 an aim'& is subject to unlawful 30 July 1990 Inmfcrcncc. I 5 November 1990
Dcfintuon for mash ad rescue aircraft: conmumcarions rquzrcmenls 12 March 1993
rescue (SAW rrrcrafl: SAR paint of contact (Spoc). for rescue cwrdinauon ccnlres (RCCs) and equrpment of warch and 26 July 1993
I2 March 1990
I 5 Alr Nangation Commiulon
I I November 1993
(7th Ediuon) u) Annex 6, PMS 1. II and 16 Amendmenu 25. 20 and 7 Revlwd definiuon of 'bilm-incommd'; e d r t o r i d uncndmenls. 12 March 2001
16 July 2001 111, respccuvely; Air 1 Novcmbcr 2001 Navtgation Commrssion
48 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. I5 JANUARY 3003
Act NO. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND REC0"EmED PRACTICES
Avinrion docntes to the State of Regbtry cenoin functions Note.- Although the Convention on Inremntional Civil
which that State is entitled to discharge, or obliged IO discharge. as rhe case may be. rhe Assem6ly recognized in fulfil its rcsponsibilizies adequately in instances where oircrofr Resolution A23-13, that r k State of Regirrry m y bc d l e to
are leased, chanered or intcrchnnged - in panicdnr without crew - by M operator of w t k r Stare and that the Convention may ~t adequately spec@ rhe rights a d obligotions of the Stare of M operator UI such inrtonces. Accordingly. the Crmncil, wirhout prejudice to the question of whether h e Conventwn may require armndmrnr with respect to the oliocotion of f u n c r w n s to Slnus. urged :ha if. in the above-mentioned instances, the State of Regirtry finds inelf unable 10 discharge adequately thefunctions ollocoted to it by the Convention. it delegate w the State ofthe operror. subject to acceptance by the lnrrcr State, :hose )iumonr of the Stare of Registry that CM more adequately be discharged by the Sfare of thc operator. It is understood that rhe foregoing action will only br a m n e r of p m ~ t ~ d convrnicnce and will nor afecr errher h e provuwns of the Chicago Convention prescribing the duties of the Stare of Registry o r MV third S m .
CHAPTER 1.
When the following terns are used in the Standards and Recommended Rrc l iccs for Search and Rescue. lhey have the following meanmgs:
Now- The desigMtlon IRR) m these definitions indicates (I definition which has h e n errracred from the Radio Regulations of the ~n ternahoM~ Telecommunication Union 117Uj (see Handbook on Radio Frequency Specvum Requirements for Cinl Aviation I cluding statement of approved ICAO policies (Doc 9718)).
Alerting posL A unlt designated to recewe information from the general public regarding aircraft in emergency and to forward the information to the asscaated rescue cwrdi- natlon centre.
Aler iph~se. A situatlon whereln apprehension emts as to the safety of an alrcrafl and 16 occupants.
DEFINITIONS
Dfrtress phase. A situation wherein there is a reasonable cemnty that an aircraft and its occupants are threatened by grave and imm~nent danger or requlre lmmedrate assistance.
Ditching. The forced landing of an aircraft on water
Emergency phase. A generic lerm meaning, as the case may be. uncertainty phase, alert phase or distress phase.
Operutor. A pemn. organizauon or enterprise engaged in or offenng to engage In an aircraft operanon.
Pilot-in-command The pdot designated by the operator. or i n the case of general aviation, the owner. as being in com- mand and charged with the safe conduct of a flight
50 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZERE, 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
Rdio dinction-pndlng station (RR SI.91). A d o defer- mination station using d o dimtion finding.
Note- The aeronauticd appluation of radio direction finding is in the ncronautical mdio navigation service.
Rescue cw-n c t t n . A unit nsponsiblc for pmmoting efficient organization Of search and m U e S C M C ~ S and for coordinating the conduct of search and rescue oprations within a search and rescue region.
Rescue subre&. A unit subordinate to a rescue coordinntion catre. established to complement h latter within a spccifed portion of a search and rescue region.
Rescue IUIU A unit composed of trained prsoml and provided with equipment suitable for the expditious conduct of search and rescue.
Search and rescue aircraft, An arrcraft provided with specialized equipment suirablc for the efficient conduct of search and rescue missions.
S w c h and rescue region. An a n a of defined dmcnsions within which search and rescue services are provided.
S w c h and rescue rcwicts unit. A generic term meaning. as the case may be, rescue cwrdinanon centre., rescue SUbCCnac or alerting pon.
State of Re&tq. The Slate on whose register the aircraft is en&.
UncertcrintJ phase. A sinmion wherein uncenainty exists as to the safety of an aircraft and its occupants.
52 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT. 2002
CHAPTER 2. ORGANIZATION
21 Establi.bmnt and provision or stad M d racut strv iea
ment and provision of search and rescue services within their 2.1.1 Contracting States shall arrange for the establish-
territories. Such services shall be provided on a 24-hour basis.
21.1.1 Those portions of Ihc high seas M areas of undetermined sovereignty for which s w h and TWC services Will be established &all be determined on the basis of regional air navigation agreements. A Cmvacting Stale having accepted Ihe responsibility IO provide search and m u e services in such BMJ shall thereafter arrange for the semm to be established and provided in accordance with the provisions of this Annex.
refers 10 r h c agreemcnrs approved by rhe Council of IC40 Nore.- The phrase “regional air navigation agreemcnu”
M d l y on the advice of Regional Aw Navigation Meerings.
survivors of aimaft accidents. Contracting States shall do so 21.2 In providing assistanct to aircraft in disvcss and to
regardless of the nationality of such a ~ ~ r a f t or survivors.
2 2 Establishment of sud Md rcsfllt mgions
rescue regions wiIhin which they will provide search and 22.1 Conrncdng Stales shall delineale the search and
rescue services. Such regions shall not overlap.
2.2.I.I Recommadation- Boundaries of search and rescue regiom s b d d , in so far os pmcticable. be coincident wirh the boundones of corresponding j7ighr information regions.
23 Ed.blisbmenl and designation of M h m d ~ e r c r * i c e s u n i r r
coordination cenm in each search and IESNC region. 2.3.1 Contracting States shall establish a rescue
cstablish rescue SubccNrcS whenever this would improve the 2.3.2 Rtcommmdation- Conrracring Srares s b u l d
eficicncy of search and rescue serv~ces.
communicatwru facilirier would n o r pcmir persow observing 2.3.3 Rtcomtndation.- In areas where public felc-
an aircmp in emergency 10 nafify the rescue cwrdinarion
should designare suirable units of public orprivare services as cenrre concerned direcrly and promprly. Contracting Stares
akm‘ng posts.
2 4 Communication for starch and rescue services units
immediate communication with: 2.4.1 Each rescue coordination centre shall have means of
a) the assccialcd air MIC servlces unit:
b) associated rescue rubcenms:
c) appmpriate direction-finding and psiuon-fiung shtions in the region;
d) where appropriate, coastal radio stations capable of
region. alening and communicating with surface vcssels In the
Nore.- “Means of immcdiare commwricarron” orc conskfercd to be dirccr-linc telephone or lcletype. direcr
available. relephanc or relerype via a swirchboard. rndiorelephonc cinuir, or, whcn these canno1 be made
2.4.2 Each rescue coordination cenm shall have means of rapid and reliable communication with:
a) the headquanen of rescue units tn the region;
b) IESNC coordination a m s in adJacent regions:
E) a dcsignatul meteorological office or memmlogical watch offia:
d) rescue uniu when employed in search and rescue:
e) alcning posts;
0 the COSPAS-SARSAT Mission Control Cenm servicing the search and rescue (SARI reglon when the
* COSPAS - npcc system for search of ~ c s s c l s In dtsucss SARSAT - m h and ~CSNC saIcllnc-atded oackmg
54 No. 24248 GOVERNME TGAZETTE. I5 JANUARY 200.1
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
rescue coordlnauon centre (RCC) has been designated S A R point of contact (SPOC).
include digital dam interchange, relephone. facsimde and Note.- "Means of raprd and reliable c o m n i c a r i o n "
radiotelephone.
2.4.3 In addition to the requirement in 2.4.1 b), each rescue subcentre shall have mcans of rapid and reliable communication with:
a) adjacent rescue subcenu-es;
b) a meteomlogmi office or mctmrological watch ofice:
c) rescue units when employed in search a d rescue:
d) alerting posts.
Note.- See Note following 2.4.2.
provided rn accordance with 2.4.2 CJ and 2.4.3 b) should be 2.4.4 Recommendation.- The means of commumcatwn
supplemenred. as and where necessary, by other means of
lelcviswn visual or audio communrcation, for example. closed.crmuit
25 Designation of r e x w units
elements of public or private services suitably l m d and 2.5.1 Contracling S c a m shall designate as re rue units
eqmppcd for search and rescue in each search and mcue
and the respeflivc rescue coordination cenue. region. and s M 1 define tk relatjve functions of these elements
15.1.1 Contracling States shall esablish additional rescue units wherever Ihe units designated in accordance with 25.1 an insufficient.
provision of search and rescue within a search and rescue Note.- The m i n i m units and facilities necessary for
and are specified in the appropriate Air Navigarion Plan region are determined by regional air navigation agreemenrs
publicarions.
2.5.2 Recommtndation- Conrracring Srotes should desrgnatc (IS pans of the search and rescue plan of operarion. elcmenrs of publrc or private services that do nor qualify as rescue units but arc ncvenheless able to panicipare rn search and rescuc opcrmons. and should define rhe relativefuncrionr of these elemenrs and the respective rescue coordtnntmn c e n r s .
2 6 Equipment of rescue units
2.6.1 Rescue units shall be provided with facllitles and equipment for locaung promptly. and for provldlng adequate assistance at. the scene of an accident.
Note.- In selecting equipmenr for rescue units ir 1s imponanr rhat due regard be given IO fhe.srze erLI passenger capacity of modern aircraft.
munications required by rhe Srendnrdr in 2.4.2 d) and 2.4.3 c). 2.6.2 Recommendation.- .In addition roe rhe com-
each rescue rrnir should have means of rapid and reliable
same operarion communicorion with orher unirs or elemcnrs engaged in rhe
Note.- See Note following 2.4.2.
be able lo communicate on the aeronautical d i s m s and scene 26.3 Each search and rescue aircraft shall be equipped to
of action frequencies and on such other frequencies as may be pnscribed
2.6.4 Each search and rescue aircraft shall be equip@
transmining on I21.5"Hr required to be canied by aircraft in with a device lor homlng on emergency locator transmitters
accodancc with the provmons of Annex 6. Parts 1. Il and UI
Note.- Specifrcntionr for emergency locaror rmnsmirrers IELTs) am given in hnu 10, Volume Ill .
search and rescue over maritime mas. -n,;mqui-ed lo 2.6.5 Each warch and rescue aircraft w@n SJsed for
communicate with mcrchint ships shall 'Y P u$Fd to be able to communicqte with such shi;; orr2li: k:z: ,;
. . ., .I . 2.6.6 Each search and resa~e'.'aim; .VI x , h e d for
search and rescue over maritime .'&as. vquired to communicate with merchant ships, shiUl :;arc, J copy of the Incemationd Code of Signals 'to enibble i l i o ' overcome language difficulties that may be experiepced in com- municating with such ships.
2.6.7 Recommead.tioa.- Unless it is known thnr rhere is no need to provide supplies to survivors by air. or learr one of Ihe aircmfi participating in a search and rescue operation should carry droppable survival equipmenr.
. .
approprinte aerodromes where search and rescue arrcra) are 2.6.8 Recommendation.- Srates should provide. at
M I readily available. survival equipment surtobly packed for dropping by aircraft n o r n o f m a l l : , paniciparing rn seorch and rescu operarionr.
raining suwivnl equipmenr for dropping to survivors should 2.6.9 Recommendation.- Conmners or packages con-
have the general nature of their conrents indicated by a colour code. by pnnted rndrcarion. and by self-explanatory svmbols. lo rhe enenr rhar such svmbols exist.
56 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
2.6.9.1 Recommendation.- The colour idcnrrficarton of the conrcnrs of droppabk COn~ainers and packages conrarnrng mixed Mrure are dropped in ON conramer or package. rhe
1.6.9.2 Recommendation.- Where supplies of a
survival equlpmcnr should rake the form of coloured s r r e m r s colour code should be used rn combmarlon. occording ro rhc following code:
Red - medical supplies andfirsr-aid equrpmnr. Blue - foodand warer.
2.6.10 Reeonrmen&tion.-lINrrucrronr on rhc ure of thc survival equrpmenr should be enclosed rn each of rhc
YeNow - b l ~ k e 1 ~ and prorertive clorhmg. droppablc containers or packages. They should be prznred m Black - n~~~cellrurcour equtpmnr such as sroves, ar least rhree hgwrgcs of which ar lcasr one should be one
LUCS. compasses. cooking urensils, err. of rite working languages of ICAO.
58 No. 24248 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. 15 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44,2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT, 2002
CHAPTER 3. COOPERATION
3.1 Cooperelion between Steta
rescue organizations with those of neighbouring Contracting 3.1.1 Contracting States shall coordinate their search and
StaU5.
whenever necessary, coordinare their search and rescu 3.1.2 Reca-dation- Contracting Stares should
operations with those of neighfmuring S&res.
in so /or as pracricable. develop common search and rescue 3.1.2.1 Rtcammen&tion.- Comracting Stares should,
procedures to facilirate CWrdiMtion of search and rescue operarions with hose of ncighbouring S&tes.
3.1.3 Subject to such conditions as may be prescribed by
entry into its territory of mcue UNCI of other States for the its own authorities. a Conmung State shall permit immediate
purpose of searching for the site of srcraft accidenu and rescuing survivors of such accidenb.
its rescue units to enter the territory of another Contracting 3.1.4 'Ihe authorities of a Contracting State which wish
State for search and rescue purposes shall transmit a q u e s t . givmg full details of the projected mission and the need for it. to the rescue mrdination centre of the State concerned or to such other authority as has been designated by that State.
3.1.4. I The authorities of Contracting States shall:
-immediately acknowledge the receipt of such a request. and
-as soon as possible indicate the conditions. if any, under which the projected mission may be undertaken.
3.1.5 Recommendation.- Contracting States should enter into agreements with ncighbouring Stares setring forth the conditions for emry of each other's rescue units into rheir
for expediting emry of such units with the least poviblc respectwe tenirories. These agreemem should also pmvide
formalities.
3.1.6 Ruammendetion- Ench Contracting Stare should authorize its rescue coordination centres IO:
a ) request from orher rescue coordlMnon cenrres such asststance. including orrcrafi. vessels. personnel or equipmnr. as m y be needed;
b) gram any necessary permission for the enfry of such aircraff, vessels. personnel or cgurpmnr into irs territory; and
c) makc h e necessary arrangements wrth fhe uppropriare cusfomr. immigrarion or other aurhorirtes with a view to expediring such entry.
3.1.7 Recammendation- Each Conrrocring Sfate should authorize 11s rescue coordiMrron cenrres to provde, When requested, assistance 10 orher rescue coordlnarion
personnel or equipmm. cemres, including assistance in rhe form of aircraft. vessels,
mb arrangements for joint training exercises mvolving fhrrr 3.1.8 Recammendation.- Conrracring Stares should
search and rescue units, rhose af other States and operators. in order to promote search and rescue cf icienq.
make a m g c m n r s f o r periodic liaison visits bv personnel of 3.1.9 Rccomcndation- Contracting Stares should
their rescue CWrdiMrion centres and subccnrres lo the centres of neighfmuring States.
3.2 Cooperation with other senices
vessels and local services and facilities which do not form pan 3.2.1 Conuacting States shall arrange for all aircraft.
of the search and rescue organization to cooperate fully with the laner in search and rescue and to extend any possible assistance to the survivors of aircraft accidents.
3.2.2 Contracting States shall ensure that their search and rescue services cooperate with those responsible for
of those who suffered from the accident. investigating accidents and with those responsible for the care
3.2.3 Recom~nendation.- To/acilirare accidenr ~nvestiri- gatwn. rescue units should. when prantcable, be accompamed by persons qualified in he conduct of arrcrafr accrdenr investigations.
3.2.4 Slates shall designate a search and rescue point of conmct (SPOC) for the receipt of COSPAS-SARSAT dlstrers data.
60 No. 21218 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. I5 JANUARY 2003
Act No. 44.2002 SOUTH AFRICAN MARITIME AND AERONAUTICAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ACT. 2002
3 3 Disrtmi~tion of information
3.3.1 Each Convdcung Stale shall publish and dissemi- nate all information necessary for the cnuy of rescue units of other Starcs into its t e m t x y .
Nor