Search and Rescue (SAR) in IMO GISIS

Introduction: Why Maritime Search and Rescue Is a Global Lifesaving System

Every year, thousands of people are rescued at sea thanks to coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. These rescues involve merchant ships, fishing vessels, passenger ships, naval units, aircraft, coast guards, and rescue coordination centres working together—often across national boundaries.

Maritime emergencies do not respect borders. A distress incident may involve:

  • A ship registered in one country

  • Crew of many nationalities

  • An accident occurring far from shore

  • Rescue assets from several States

Without a clear international framework, lives would be lost due to confusion, delayed response, or lack of coordination.

To prevent this, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) developed the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR Convention). To support transparency and coordination, information related to SAR services is made available through the “Search and Rescue (SAR)” module of the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS).

This article provides a comprehensive introduction and practical guide to the SAR option in GISIS. It explains the SAR system, the legal framework, what information is available in GISIS, and why this module is essential for administrations, ship operators, seafarers, educators, and maritime safety professionals worldwide.

Understanding GISIS and Its Role in Emergency Preparedness

What Is the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System?

The IMO GISIS (Global Integrated Shipping Information System) is an online platform managed by the International Maritime Organization that provides transparent and reliable data on ships, companies, flag States, and maritime compliance. It brings together information on safety, security, pollution prevention, port State control, and casualty reports in one place. For seafarers, maritime professionals, researchers, and regulators, IMO GISIS is a trusted tool to check vessel records, track compliance with IMO conventions, and understand global shipping performance. Its free public access supports safer seas, better regulation, and informed decision-making across the maritime industry.

The Search and Rescue (SAR) module focuses specifically on life-saving emergency response at sea.

What Is Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR)?

Definition of Maritime SAR

Maritime Search and Rescue refers to:

  • The search for persons in distress at sea

  • The rescue of survivors

  • The provision of initial medical or safety assistance

  • The delivery of survivors to a place of safety

SAR applies to incidents such as:

  • Ship collisions and groundings

  • Fires and explosions

  • Man overboard situations

  • Capsizing and sinking

  • Aircraft accidents at sea

Why SAR Requires International Coordination

Ships operate globally, often far from their flag State. Therefore:

  • No single country can manage all rescues alone

  • Cooperation between States is essential

  • Clear responsibility zones are required

The SAR Convention provides this structure.

Legal Framework: The SAR Convention

Overview of the SAR Convention

The International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue establishes a global system for:

  • Organising SAR services

  • Defining geographical SAR regions

  • Coordinating rescue efforts between States

The Convention’s main objective is:

To ensure that assistance is provided to any person in distress at sea, regardless of nationality or circumstances.

SAR Regions (SRRs)

Under the SAR Convention:

  • The world’s oceans are divided into Search and Rescue Regions (SRRs)

  • Each SRR is coordinated by a designated State

  • The responsible State establishes a Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC)

SRRs are about coordination responsibility, not sovereignty.

Purpose of the SAR Module in GISIS

Core Objectives

The Search and Rescue module in GISIS aims to:

  • Provide information on national SAR services

  • Identify SAR regions and coordination centres

  • Support cooperation between States

  • Improve awareness and preparedness

  • Assist maritime professionals and educators

It is an information and coordination reference tool, not an operational distress system.

What Information Is Available in the GISIS SAR Module?

Types of Information Provided

Depending on Member State submissions, the SAR module may include:

  • Details of national Search and Rescue services

  • Contact information for Rescue Coordination Centres (RCCs)

  • Geographic scope of SAR regions

  • Administrative information supporting SAR cooperation

Operational distress alerts are not transmitted through GISIS.

Who Submits SAR Information to GISIS?

Role of IMO Member States

SAR information is:

  • Submitted by IMO Member States

  • Based on national SAR organization and responsibilities

  • Updated as coordination arrangements change

The IMO provides the platform but does not conduct rescues.

Role of Rescue Coordination Centres (RCCs)

RCCs are responsible for:

  • Receiving distress alerts

  • Coordinating rescue assets

  • Communicating with ships and aircraft

  • Cooperating with neighbouring RCCs

GISIS helps make RCC information globally accessible.

How to Access the SAR Module in GISIS

Step 1: Access the GISIS Platform

Users access GISIS via the IMO website.

Step 2: Select “Search and Rescue (SAR)”

From the list of GISIS modules, users select Search and Rescue (SAR).

Step 3: Review SAR Information

Users can:

  • Identify SAR coordination responsibilities

  • Locate RCC contact details

  • Understand global SAR coverage

Importance of the SAR Module for Seafarers and Ship Operators

Emergency Preparedness

Ship operators and masters benefit from:

  • Knowing which RCC is responsible in a given area

  • Understanding SAR coordination structures

  • Improving emergency response planning

This knowledge can save lives during critical situations.

Compliance with SOLAS Obligations

Under SOLAS, shipmasters are obliged to:

  • Render assistance to persons in distress at sea

  • Respond to distress alerts when possible

Clear SAR information supports lawful and effective action.

Role of SAR in Mass Rescue Operations (MROs)

Passenger Ships and Offshore Installations

SAR systems are critical during:

  • Cruise ship emergencies

  • Ferry accidents

  • Offshore platform incidents

Mass rescue operations require:

  • Extensive coordination

  • Multiple assets

  • International cooperation

GISIS supports preparedness through information transparency.

SAR and Humanitarian Responsibilities

Saving Lives at Sea

SAR applies regardless of:

  • Nationality

  • Legal status

  • Type of vessel

This principle is central to maritime tradition and international law.

SAR and Migrant Rescue

While politically sensitive, SAR obligations:

  • Are humanitarian and non-discriminatory

  • Exist independently of migration policy

GISIS focuses strictly on coordination and safety, not enforcement.

Relationship with Other GISIS Modules

The SAR module complements:

  • Maritime Security – emergency response coordination

  • Marine Casualties and Incidents – accident outcomes

  • Ship and Company Particulars – vessel identification

  • Port State Control – post-incident inspections

  • Contact Points – authority coordination

Together, these modules support prevention, response, and accountability.

Common Misunderstandings About Maritime SAR

SAR Regions Are Not Territorial Claims

SRRs do not define sovereignty or maritime boundaries.

GISIS Is Not a Distress Alert System

Distress alerts must be sent via:

  • GMDSS

  • VHF/MF/HF radio

  • Satellite systems

GISIS provides reference information only.

Best Practices for Using the GISIS SAR Module

  • Use it as an official reference for SAR coordination

  • Integrate SAR awareness into bridge and emergency training

  • Ensure RCC contact information is known onboard

  • Use GISIS alongside GMDSS and voyage planning systems

Educational Value for Maritime Training and Academia

For maritime education, the SAR module provides:

  • Insight into global lifesaving coordination

  • Understanding of SAR legal obligations

  • Real-world context for emergency response training

It is especially useful in courses on:

  • Maritime safety

  • Bridge resource management

  • Emergency preparedness

  • Maritime law and humanitarian obligations

SAR in the Future of Global Shipping

Increasing Traffic and Risk

With growing:

  • Ship traffic density

  • Cruise tourism

  • Offshore activities

SAR systems must adapt and strengthen coordination.

Digitalisation and Cooperation

Future developments may include:

  • Improved digital SAR mapping

  • Enhanced data sharing between RCCs

  • Stronger integration with satellite systems

GISIS provides a foundation for these improvements.

Conclusion: Saving Lives through Information and Cooperation

The Search and Rescue (SAR) option in the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System reflects one of the most fundamental principles of maritime tradition: no one in distress at sea should be left unaided.

By providing transparent, accessible information on SAR services, coordination centres, and regional responsibilities, the GISIS SAR module supports effective emergency response, international cooperation, and lifesaving action.

For seafarers, ship operators, administrations, educators, researchers, and students, this module offers a trusted and authoritative gateway to understanding how the global maritime community works together when lives are at risk.

In an industry driven by technology, regulation, and commerce, maritime SAR remains a powerful reminder that human life is always the highest priority at sea.

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