[Federal Register Volume 68, Number 152 (Thursday, August 7, 2003)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46957-46982]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 03-19687]


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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

47 CFR Parts 2, 13 and 80

[WT Docket No. 00-48; FCC 02-102; RM-9499]


Maritime Communications

AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: In this document the Commission consolidates, revises and 
streamlines the Commission's rules governing maritime communications. 
These changes incorporate new international maritime requirements, 
improve the operational ability of all users of marine radios, and 
remove unnecessary or duplicative requirements from the rules.

DATES: Effective October 6, 2003. The incorporation by reference of 
certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the 
Director of the Federal Register, as of October 6, 2003.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Tobias, [email protected], or 
Ghassan Khalek, [email protected], Policy and Rules Branch, Public Safety 
and Private Wireless Division, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 
(202) 418-0680, or TTY (202) 418-7233.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Federal 
Communications Commission's Report and Order, FCC 02-102, adopted on 
March 27, 2002, and released on April 9, 2002. The full text of this 
document is available for inspection and copying during normal business 
hours in the FCC Reference Center, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 
20554. The complete text may be purchased from the Commission's copy 
contractor, Qualex International, 445 12th Street, SW., Room CY-B402, 
Washington, DC 20554. The full text may also be downloaded at: http://www.fcc.gov. Alternative formats are available to persons with 
disabilities by contacting Brian Millin at (202) 418-7426 or TTY (202) 
418-7365 or at [email protected].
    1. In this Report and Order, we adopt changes to part 80 of the 
Commission's rules that were either proposed in or suggested in 
response to the Notice of Proposed Rule Making (``NPRM'') in this 
proceeding. The NPRM, released on March 24, 2000, 65 FR 21694, April 
24, 2000, proposed rule changes that were intended to consolidate, 
revise and streamline our rules governing maritime communications 
pursuant to requests from the National GMDSS Implementation Task Force 
and Globe Wireless, Inc. These changes were proposed to address new 
international maritime requirements, improve the operational ability of 
all users of marine radios and remove unnecessary or duplicative 
requirements from our rules.
    2. The significant actions taken in this Report and Order are as 
follows: (1) The extension of the fishing vessel exemption from Global 
Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) requirements until one year 
after the United States Coast Guard (USCG) establishes Sea Areas A1 and 
A2; (2) the establishment of a Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator's 
License; (3) the authorization of the USCG or its designee to issue a 
Proof of Passing Certificate that would allow operators to obtain an 
FCC GMDSS Radio Operator's License; (4) the modification of certain 
sections of our rules to implement international standards; (5) the 
imposition of a mandatory watch on Channel 70 for voluntary vessels; 
(6) the allowance of J2B and J2D transmissions on frequencies currently 
reserved for Morse Code transmissions; (7) the removal of certification 
for Class S emergency position indicating radiobeacons; and (8) the 
elimination of subpart Q and the streamlining of subpart R of part 80 
of the Commission's rules. In addition, we today decide not to extend 
the fishing vessel exemption to other vessels.

I. Regulatory Matters

A. Paperwork Reduction Act

    3. This Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making 
does not contain any new or modified information collection.

B. Final Regulatory Flexibility Certification

    4. The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) requires that an agency 
prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis for notice and comment 
rulemakings, unless the agency certifies that ``the rule will not, if 
promulgated, have a significant economic impact on a substantial number 
of small entities.'' The RFA generally defines the term ``small 
entity'' as having the same meaning as the terms ``small business,'' 
``small organization,'' and ``small governmental jurisdiction.'' In 
addition, the term ``small business'' has the same meaning as the term 
``small business concern'' under the Small Business Act. A small 
business concern is one that: (1) Is independently owned and operated; 
(2) is not dominant in its field of operation; and (3) satisfies any 
additional criteria established by the SBA.
    5. The purpose of this Report and Order and Further Notice of 
Proposed Rule Making is to streamline and clarify our rules under Parts 
13 and 80 governing maritime communications. We believe that the rules 
adopted in the Report and Order do not impose any additional compliance 
burden on small entities regulated by the Commission.
    6. We have identified those small entities that could conceivably 
be affected by the rule changes adopted herein. Small businesses in the 
aviation and marine radio services use a marine very high frequency 
(VHF) radio, any type of emergency position indicating radio beacon 
(EPIRB) and/or radar, a VHF aircraft radio, and/or any type of 
emergency locator transmitter (ELT). The Commission has not developed a 
definition of small entities specifically applicable to these small 
businesses. For purposes of this certification, therefore, the 
applicable definition of small entity is the definition under the SBA 
rules applicable to radiotelephone (wireless) communications. This 
definition is that a ``small entity'' for purposes of public coast 
station licensees, a subgroup of marine radio users, is any entity 
employing 1,500 or fewer persons. 13 CFR 121.201, Standard Industrial 
Classification (SIC) Code 4812, now NAICS Code 513322. Since the size 
data provided by the Small Business Administration do not enable us to 
make a meaningful estimate of the number of marine radio service 
providers and users that are small businesses, we have used the 1992 
Census of Transportation, Communications, and Utilities, conducted by 
the Bureau of the Census, which is the most recent information 
available. This document shows that 12 radiotelephone firms out of a 
total of 1,178 such firms which operated in 1992 had at least 1,000 
employees.
    7. The adopted rules may also affect small businesses that 
manufacture marine radio equipment. The Commission has not developed a 
definition of small entities applicable to Radio Frequency Equipment 
Manufacturers (RF Manufacturers). Therefore, the applicable definition 
of small entity is the definition under the SBA rules applicable to 
manufacturers of ``Radio and Television Broadcasting and Communications 
Equipment.'' According to the SBA regulations, an RF manufacturer must 
have 750 or fewer employees in order to qualify as a small business. 13 
CFR Sec.  121.201, North American Industrial Classification

[[Page 46958]]

System (NAICS) Code 33422. Census Bureau data indicate that there are 
858 companies in the United States that manufacture radio and 
television broadcasting and communications equipment, and that 778 of 
these firms have fewer than 750 employees and would be classified as 
small entities.
    8. We anticipate that these rule changes will not impose any new 
burdens on small entities, but in fact will reduce regulatory and 
procedural burdens on small entities. For example, the incorporation by 
reference into our rules of updated technical requirements for maritime 
radio equipment, i.e., modified International Electrotechnical 
Commission (IEC) standards, can be expected to ultimately reduce 
compliance costs for ship owners and manufacturers because it avoids 
inconsistency between domestic and international requirements, 
providing internationally recognized criteria and test procedures for 
certification of GMDSS equipment. Moreover, to mitigate any potential 
compliance burden on manufacturers and ship owners that could stem from 
a sudden change in the standards, we established grandfathering 
provisions that allow the installation of equipment meeting the old 
standards for a significant period of time after the effective date of 
these rules. More broadly speaking, the general effect of the rule 
changes adopted herein is to streamline the rules, remove duplicative 
requirements, provide greater operational flexibility, promote spectrum 
efficiency, and make our rules consistent with international 
requirements, all of which are measures that should have an overall 
beneficial effect on the regulated entities. We certified in the NPRM 
in this proceeding that the rules proposed therein will not, if 
promulgated, have a significant economic impact upon a substantial 
number of small entities, as that term is defined by the RFA, and no 
party has challenged or otherwise commented on that certification.
    9. We therefore certify that the requirements of this Report and 
Order will not have a significant economic impact upon a substantial 
number of small entities, as that term is defined by the RFA.
    10. The Commission will send a copy of this Report and Order, 
including a copy of this final certification, in a report to Congress 
pursuant to the Congressional Review Act. In addition, the Report and 
Order and this final certification will be sent to the Chief Counsel 
for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration, and will be 
published in the Federal Register.
    11. To fully ensure that potential compliance burdens on small 
entities are fully explored, however, we have determined not to act 
immediately on certain proposals set forth in the NPRM or raised by 
commenters, but instead to seek further comment on those proposals. 
These matters are discussed in the Further Notice of Proposed Rule 
Making.

II. Ordering Clauses

    12. The Commission's Consumer Information Bureau, Reference 
Information Center, shall send a copy of this Report and Order 
including the Regulatory Flexibility Certification to the Chief Counsel 
for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.

List of Subjects

47 CFR Parts 2 and 13

    Radio.

47 CFR Part 80

    Communications equipment, Incorporation by reference, Marine 
safety, Radio, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

Federal Communications Commission.
Marlene H. Dortch,
Secretary.

Rule Changes

0
For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Federal Communications 
Commission amends 47 CFR Parts 2, 13 and 80 as follows:

PART 2--FREQUENCY ALLOCATIONS AND RADIO TREATY MATTERS; GENERAL 
RULES AND REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 2 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, and 336, unless otherwise 
noted.


0
2. Section 2.106 is amended by revising footnote US296 to read as 
follows:


Sec.  2.106  Table of Frequency Allocations.

* * * * *
    US296 In the bands designated for ship wide-band telegraphy, 
facsimile and special transmission systems, the following assignable 
frequencies are available to non-Federal Government stations on a 
shared basis with Federal Government stations: 2070.5 kHz, 2072.5 kHz, 
2074.5 kHz, 2076.5 kHz, 4154 kHz, 4170 kHz, 6235 kHz, 6259 kHz, 8302 
kHz, 8338 kHz, 12370 kHz, 12418 kHz, 16551 kHz, 16615 kHz, 18848 kHz, 
18868 kHz, 22182 kHz, 22238 kHz, 25123 kHz, and 25159 kHz.
* * * * *

PART 13--COMMERCIAL RADIO OPERATORS

0
3. The authority citation for part 13 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: Secs. 4, 303, 48 Stat. 1066, 1082, as amended; 47 
U.S.C. 154, 303.


0
4. Section 13.7 is amended by revising paragraph (b) introductory text, 
redesignating paragraph (b)(9) as (b)(10), and adding a new paragraph 
(b)(9) to read as follows:


Sec.  13.7  Classification of operator licenses and endorsements.

* * * * *
    (b) There are ten types of commercial radio operator licenses, 
certificates and permits (licenses). The license's ITU classification, 
if different from its name, is given in parentheses.
* * * * *
    (9) Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator's License (restricted 
operator's certificate).
* * * * *


0
5. Section 13.9 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(1) and (c) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  13.9  Eligibility and application for new license or endorsement.

* * * * *
    (b)(1) Each application for a new General Radiotelephone Operator 
License, Marine Radio Operator Permit, First Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator's Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator's 
Certificate, Third Class Radiotelegraph Operator's Certificate, Ship 
Radar Endorsement, Six Months Service Endorsement, GMDSS Radio 
Operator's License, Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator's License, GMDSS 
Radio Maintainer's License and GMDSS Radio Operator/Maintainer License 
must be filed on FCC Form 605 in accordance with Sec.  1.913 of this 
chapter.
* * * * *
    (c) Each application for a new General Radiotelephone Operator 
License, Marine Radio Operator Permit, First Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator's Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator's 
Certificate, Third Class Radiotelegraph Operator's Certificate, Ship 
Radar Endorsement, GMDSS Radio Operator's License, Restricted GMDSS 
Radio Operator's License, GMDSS Radio Maintainer's License, or GMDSS 
Radio Operator/Maintainer License must be accompanied by the required 
fee, if any, and submitted in accordance with Sec.  1.913 of this 
chapter. The application must include an original PPC(s) from a 
COLEM(s) showing that the applicant has passed the necessary 
examination

[[Page 46959]]

element(s) within the previous 365 days when the applicant files the 
application. If a COLEM files the application electronically on behalf 
of the applicant an original PPC(s) is not required. However, the COLEM 
must keep the PPC(s) on file for a period of 1 year.
* * * * *

0
6. Section 13.13 is amended by revising paragraph (a), redesignating 
paragraph (d) as (e), and adding a new paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  13.13  Application for a renewed or modified license.

    (a) Each application to renew a First Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator's Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator's 
Certificate, Third Class Radiotelegraph Operator's Certificate, Marine 
Radio Operator Permit, GMDSS Radio Operator's License, Restricted GMDSS 
Radio Operator's License, GMDSS Radio Maintainer's License, or GMDSS 
Radio Operator/Maintainer License must be made on FCC Form 605. The 
application must be accompanied by the appropriate fee and submitted in 
accordance with Sec.  1.913 of this chapter.
* * * * *
    (d) Provided that a person's commercial radio operator license was 
not revoked, or suspended, and is not the subject of an ongoing 
suspension proceeding, a person holding a General Radiotelephone 
Operator License, Marine Radio Operator Permit, First Class 
Radiotelegraph Operator's Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator's Certificate, Third Class Radiotelegraph Operator's 
Certificate, GMDSS Radio Operator's License, Restricted GMDSS Radio 
Operator's License, GMDSS Radio Maintainer's License, or GMDSS Radio 
Operator/Maintainer license, who has an application for another 
commercial radio operator license which has not yet been acted upon 
pending at the FCC and who holds a PPC(s) indicating that he or she 
passed the necessary examination(s) within the previous 365 days, is 
authorized to exercise the rights and privileges of the license for 
which the application is filed. This temporary conditional operating 
authority is valid for a period of 90 days from the date the 
application is received. This temporary conditional operating authority 
does not relieve the licensee of the obligation to comply with the 
certification requirements of the Standards of Training, Certification 
and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention. The FCC, in its discretion, may 
cancel this temporary conditional operating authority without a 
hearing.
* * * * *

0
7. Section 13.17 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  13.17  Replacement license.

* * * * *
    (b) Each application for a replacement General Radiotelephone 
Operator License, Marine Radio Operator Permit, First Class 
Radiotelegraph Operator's Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator's Certificate, Third Class Radiotelegraph Operator's 
Certificate, GMDSS Radio Operator's License, Restricted GMDSS Radio 
Operator License, GMDSS Radio Maintainer's License, or GMDSS Radio 
Operator/Maintainer license must be made on FCC Form 605 and must 
include a written explanation as to the circumstances involved in the 
loss, mutilation, or destruction of the original document.
* * * * *

0
8. Section 13.201 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(6), 
redesignating paragraphs (b)(7) and (b)(8) as paragraphs (b)(8) and 
(b)(9), and adding a new paragraph (b)(7) to read as follows:


Sec.  13.201  Qualifying for a commercial operator license or 
endorsement.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) GMDSS Radio Operator's License: Written Elements 1 and 7, or a 
Proof of Passing Certificate (PPC) issued by the United States Coast 
Guard or its designee representing a certificate of competency from a 
Coast Guard-approved training course for a GMDSS endorsement.
    (7) Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator License: Written Elements 1 and 
7R, or a Proof of Passing Certificate (PPC) issued by the United States 
Coast Guard or its designee representing a certificate of competency 
from a Coast Guard-approved training course for a GMDSS endorsement.
* * * * *

PART 80--STATIONS IN THE MARITIME SERVICES

0
9. The authority citation for part 80 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: Secs. 4, 303, 307(e), 309, and 332, 48 Stat. 1066, 
1082, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 154, 303, 307(e), 309, and 332, unless 
otherwise noted. Interpret or apply 48 Stat. 1064-1068, 1081-1105, 
as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151-155, 301-609; 3 UST 3450, 3 UST 4726, 12 
UST 2377.


0
10. Section 80.5 is amended by adding an entry for INMARSAT in 
alphabetical order and revising the entries for Digital selective 
calling, Distress signal, Distress traffic, Inland waters, Maritime 
mobile service identities (MMSI), Safety signal, and Urgency signal to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.5  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Digital selective calling (DSC). A synchronous system developed by 
the International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication (ITU-R) 
Sector, used to establish contact with a station or group of stations 
automatically by means of radio. The operational and technical 
characteristics of this system are contained in Recommendations ITU-R 
M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling System for Use in the Maritime 
Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 2000, and ITU-R M.541-8, 
``Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital Selective-Calling 
Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes, 1997. (see 
subpart W of this part.) ITU-R Recommendations M.493-10 with Annexes 1 
and 2 and M.541-8 with Annexes are incorporated by reference. The 
Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies 
of these standards can be inspected at the Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information 
Center) or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendations can be 
purchased from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place 
des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
* * * * *
    Distress signal. The distress signal is a digital selective call 
using an internationally recognized distress call format in the bands 
used for terrestrial communication or an internationally recognized 
distress message format, in which case it is relayed through space 
stations, which indicates that a person, ship, aircraft, or other 
vehicle is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests 
immediate assistance.
    (1) In radiotelephony, the international distress signal consists 
of the enunciation of the word ``Mayday'', pronounced as the French 
expression ``m'aider''. In case of distress, transmission of this 
particular signal is intended to ensure recognition of a radiotelephone 
distress call by stations of any nationality.
    (2) For GMDSS, distress alerts result in an audible alarm and 
visual indication that a ship or person is

[[Page 46960]]

threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate 
assistance. These automatic systems contain sufficient information in 
the distress alert message to identify the vessel, prepare to assist 
and begin a search. However, except when transmitted via satellite 
EPIRB, the distress alert is just the initial call for help. 
Communication between the vessel or person in distress and the Rescue 
Coordination Center (RCC) or ship assisting should always follow.
    Distress traffic. Distress traffic consists of all messages 
relating to the immediate assistance required by a person, ship, 
aircraft, or other vehicle in distress, including search and rescue 
communications and on-scene communications.
* * * * *
    Inland waters. This term, as used in reference to waters of the 
United States, its territories and possessions, means waters that lie 
landward of the boundary lines of inland waters as contained in 33 CFR 
80.01, as well as waters within its land territory, such as rivers and 
lakes, over which the United States exercises sovereignty.
    INMARSAT. INMARSAT Ltd. is a private commercial company licensed in 
the United Kingdom.
* * * * *
    Maritime mobile service identities (MMSI). An international system 
for the identification of radio stations in the maritime mobile 
service. The system is comprised of a series of nine digits which are 
transmitted over the radio path to uniquely identify ship stations, 
ship earth stations, coast stations, coast earth stations and groups of 
stations.
* * * * *
    Safety signal. (1) The safety signal is the international 
radiotelegraph or radiotelephone signal which indicates that the 
station sending this signal is preparing to transmit a message 
concerning the safety of navigation or giving important meteorological 
warnings.
    (2) In radiotelegraphy, the international safety signals consists 
of three repetitions of the group ``TTT,'' sent before the call, with 
the letters of each group and the successive groups clearly separated 
from each other.
    (3) In radiotelephony, the international safety signal consists of 
three oral repetitions of ``Security,'' pronounced as the French word 
``Securite,'' sent before the call.
    (4) For GMDSS, safety calls result in an audible alarm and visual 
indication that the station sending this signal has a very urgent 
message to transmit concerning the safety of navigation or giving 
important meteorological warnings.
* * * * *
    Urgency signal. (1) The urgency signal is the international 
radiotelegraph or radiotelephone signal which indicates that the 
calling station has a very urgent message to transmit concerning the 
safety of a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, or of some person on 
board or within sight.
    (2) In radiotelegraphy, the international urgency signal consists 
of three repetitions of the group ``XXX,'' sent before the call, with 
the letters of each group and the successive groups clearly separated 
from each other.
    (3) In radiotelephony, the international urgency signal consists of 
three oral repetitions of the group of words ``PAN PAN'', each word of 
the group pronounced as the French word ``PANNE'' and sent before the 
call.
    (4) For GMDSS, urgency calls result in an audible alarm and visual 
indication that the station sending this signal has a very urgent 
message to transmit concerning the safety of a ship, aircraft, or other 
vehicle, or of some person on board or within sight.
* * * * *

0
11. Section 80.15 is amended by removing paragraph (e)(1), 
redesignating paragraphs (e)(2) and (e)(3) as paragraphs (e)(1) and 
(e)(2), and revising newly redesignated paragraph (e)(1) introductory 
text to read as follows:


Sec.  80.15  Eligibility for station license.

* * * * *
    (e) EPIRB stations. (1) Class A or Class B EPIRB stations will be 
authorized for use on board the following types of vessels until 
December 31, 2006:
* * * * *

0
12. Section 80.51 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.51  Ship earth station licensing.

    A ship earth station authorized to operate in the INMARSAT space 
segment must display the Commission license in conjunction with the 
commissioning certificate issued by the INMARSAT Organization. 
Notwithstanding the requirements in this paragraph, ship earth stations 
can operate in the INMARSAT space segment without an INMARSAT issued 
commissioning certificate provided an appropriate written approval is 
obtained from the INMARSAT Organization in addition to the Commission's 
license.

0
13. Section 80.59 is amended by revising paragraph (c)(1)(x)(C) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  80.59  Compulsory ship inspections.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (x) * * *
    (C) Category 1, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB (GMDSS approved);
* * * * *

0
14. Section 80.67 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.67  General facilities requirements for coast stations.

* * * * *
    (b) All coast stations that operate telephony on frequencies in the 
1605-3500 kHz band must be able to transmit and receive using J3E 
emission on the frequency 2182 kHz and at least one working frequency 
in the band.


Sec.  80.89  [Amended]

0
15. Section 80.89 is amended by removing paragraph (e) and 
redesignating paragraphs (f) and (g) as paragraphs (e) and (f).

0
16. Section 80.91 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.91  Order of priority of communications.

    (a) All stations in the maritime mobile service and the maritime 
mobile-satellite service shall be capable of offering four levels of 
priority in the following order:
    (1) Distress calls, distress messages, and distress traffic.
    (2) Urgency communications.
    (3) Safety communications.
    (4) Other communications.
    (b) In a fully automated system, where it is impracticable to offer 
all four levels of priority, category 1 shall receive priority until 
such time as intergovernmental agreements remove exemptions granted for 
such systems from offering the complete order of priority.

0
17. Section 80.93 is amended by redesignating paragraph (d) as 
paragraph (e), adding a new paragraph (d), and revising paragraph (c) 
and newly designated paragraph (e) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.93  Hours of service.

* * * * *
    (c) Compulsory ship stations. (1) Compulsory ship stations whose 
service is not continuous may not suspend operation before concluding 
all traffic originating in or destined for public coast stations 
situated within their range and mobile stations which have indicated 
their presence.
    (2) For GMDSS ships, radios shall be turned on and set to proper 
watch channels while ships are underway. If a

[[Page 46961]]

ship has duplicate GMDSS installations for DSC or INMARSAT, only one of 
each must be turned on and keeping watch.
    (d) Ships voluntarily fitting GMDSS subsystems. For ships 
voluntarily fitting GMDSS subsystems, radios shall be turned on and set 
to proper watch channels while ships are underway. If ship has 
duplicate GMDSS installations for DSC or INMARSAT, only one of each 
must be turned on and keeping watch.
    (e) Other than public coast or compulsory ship stations. The hours 
of service of stations other than those described in paragraphs (b), 
(c), and (d) of this section are determined by the station licensee.

0
18. Section 80.101 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (c) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.101  Radiotelephone testing procedures.

* * * * *
    (b) Testing of transmitters must be confined to single frequency 
channels on working frequencies. However, 2182 kHz and 156.800 MHz may 
be used to contact ship or coast stations as appropriate when signal 
reports are necessary. Short tests on 4125 kHz are permitted by vessels 
equipped with MF/HF radios to evaluate the compatibility of the 
equipment for distress and safety purposes. U.S. Coast Guard stations 
may be contacted on 2182 kHz or 156.800 MHz for test purposes only when 
tests are being conducted by Commission employees, when FCC-licensed 
technicians are conducting inspections on behalf of the Commission, 
when qualified technicians are installing or repairing radiotelephone 
equipment, or when qualified ship's personnel conduct an operational 
check requested by the U.S. Coast Guard. In these cases the test must 
be identified as ``FCC'' or ``technical.''
    (c) Survival craft transmitter tests must not be made within 
actuating range of automatic alarm receivers.

0
19. Section 80.102 is amended by redesignating paragraph (e) as 
paragraph (f) and adding a new paragraph (e) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.102  Radiotelephone station identification.

* * * * *
    (e) Voice traffic in the INMARSAT system is closed to other parties 
except the two stations involved and the identification is done 
automatically with the establishment of the call. Therefore, it is not 
necessary for these stations to identify themselves periodically during 
the communication. For terrestrial systems using DSC to establish 
radiotelephone communications, the identification is made at the 
beginning of the call. In these cases, both parties must identify 
themselves by ship name, call sign or MMSI at least once every 15 
minutes during radiotelephone communications.
* * * * *

0
20. Section 80.103 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.103  Digital selective calling (DSC) operating procedures.

    (a) Operating procedures for the use of DSC equipment in the 
maritime mobile service are as contained in ITU-R M.541-8, 
``Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital Selective-Calling 
Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes, 1997, and 
subpart W of this part.
    (b) When using DSC techniques, coast stations and ship stations 
must use maritime mobile service identities (MMSI) assigned by the 
Commission or its designees.
    (c) DSC acknowledgement of DSC distress and safety calls must be 
made by designated coast stations and such acknowledgement must be in 
accordance with procedures contained in ITU-R M.541-8, ``Operational 
Procedures for the Use of Digital Selective-Calling Equipment in the 
Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes, 1997. Nondesignated public and 
private coast stations must follow the guidance provided for ship 
stations in ITU-R M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for the Use of 
Digital Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' 
with Annexes, 1997, with respect to DSC ``Acknowledgement of distress 
calls'' and ``Distress relays.'' (See subpart W of this part.)
    (d) Group calls to vessels under the common control of a single 
entity are authorized. A group call identity may be created from an 
MMSI ending in a zero, assigned to this single entity, by deleting the 
trailing zero and adding a leading zero to the identity.
    (e) ITU-R M.541-8 with Annexes, 1997, is incorporated by reference. 
The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies 
of this standard can be inspected at the Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information 
Center) or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be 
purchased from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place 
des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.


Sec.  80.116  [Amended]

0
21. In Sec.  80.116 remove paragraph (h).
0
22. Section 80.141 is amended by revising paragraph (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.141  General provisions for ship stations.

* * * * *
    (c) Service requirements for vessels. Each ship station provided 
for compliance with Part II of Title III of the Communications Act must 
provide a public correspondence service on voyages of more than 24 
hours for any person who requests the service. Compulsory 
radiotelephone ships must provide this service for at least four hours 
daily. The hours must be prominently posted at the principal operating 
location of the station.
* * * * *

0
23. Section 80.142 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.142  Ships using radiotelegraphy.

* * * * *
    (b) NB-DP operating procedure. The operation of NB-DP equipment in 
the maritime mobile service must be in accordance with the operating 
procedures contained in the latest version of ITU-R Recommendation 
M.492-6, ``Operational Procedures for the use of Direct-Printing 
Telegraph Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, 
that does not prevent the use of existing equipment. ITU-R 
Recommendation M.492-6 with Annex is incorporated by reference. The 
Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies 
of this standard can be inspected at the Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC (Reference Information 
Center) or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be 
purchased from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place 
des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
24. Section 80.143 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.143  Required frequencies for radiotelephony.

    (a) Except for compulsory vessels, each ship radiotelephone station 
licensed to operate in the band 1605-3500 kHz must be able to receive 
and transmit J3E emission on the frequency 2182 kHz. Ship stations are 
additionally

[[Page 46962]]

authorized to receive and transmit H3E emission for communications with 
foreign coast stations and with vessels of foreign registry. If the 
station is used for other than safety communications, it must be 
capable also of receiving and transmitting the J3E emission on at least 
two other frequencies in that band. However, ship stations which 
operate exclusively on the Mississippi River and its connecting 
waterways, and on high frequency bands above 3500 kHz, need be equipped 
with 2182 kHz and one other frequency within the band 1605-3500 kHz.
* * * * *


Sec.  80.145  [Removed and Reserved]

0
25. Remove and reserve Sec.  80.145.


Sec.  80.146  [Removed and Reserved]

0
26. Remove and reserve Sec.  80.146.

0
27. Section 80.147 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.147  Watch on 2182 kHz.

    Ship stations must maintain a watch on 2182 kHz as prescribed by 
Sec.  80.304.

0
28. Section 80.148 is amended by removing paragraph (c) and revising 
the introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  80.148  Watch on 156.8 MHz (Channel 16).

    Until February 1, 2005, each compulsory vessel, while underway, 
must maintain a watch for radiotelephone distress calls on 156.800 MHz 
whenever such station is not being used for exchanging communications. 
For GMDSS ships, 156.525 MHz is the calling frequency for distress, 
safety, and general communications using digital selective calling and 
the watch on 156.800 MHz is provided so that ships not fitted with DSC 
will be able to call GMDSS ships, thus providing a link between GMDSS 
and non-GMDSS compliant ships. The watch on 156.800 MHz is not 
required:
* * * * *

0
29. Section 80.151 is amended by adding paragraphs (b)(7) and (b)(8) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.151  Classification of operator licenses and endorsements.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (7) GOL. GMDSS Radio Operator License (General Operator's 
Certificate).
    (8) ROL. Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator License (Restricted 
Operator's Certificate).
* * * * *

0
30. Section 80.159 is amended by redesignating paragraph (d) as 
paragraph (e) and adding a new paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.159  Operator requirements of Title III of the Communications 
Act and the Safety Convention.

* * * * *
    (d) Each passenger ship equipped with a GMDSS installation in 
accordance with subpart W of this part shall carry at least two persons 
holding an appropriate GMDSS Radio Operator License or, if the 
passenger ship operates exclusively within twenty nautical miles of 
shore, at least two persons holding either a GMDSS Radio Operator 
License or a Restricted GMDSS Radio Operator License, as specified in 
Sec.  13.7 of this chapter.
* * * * *

0
31. Section 80.165 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.165  Operator requirements for voluntary stations.

                        Minimum Operator License
 
Ship Morse telegraph..............................  T-2.
Ship direct-printing telegraph....................  MP.
Ship telephone, with or without DSC, more than 250  G.
 watts carrier power or 1,000 watts peak envelope
 power.
Ship telephone, with or without DSC, not more than  MP.
 250 watts carrier power or 1,000 watts peak
 envelope power.
Ship telephone, with or without DSC, not more than
 100 watts carrier power or 400 watts peak
 envelope power:
    Above 30 MHz..................................  None.\1\
    Below 30 MHz..................................  RP.
    Ship earth station............................  RP.
 
\1\ RP required for compulsory ships and international voyages.


0
32. Section 80.179 is amended by revising paragraph (e)(1) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.179  Unattended operation.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) The equipment must be using DSC in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling System for Use in 
the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 2000, and ITU-R 
Recommendation M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital 
Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with 
Annexes, 1997, as modified by this section. ITU-R Recommendations 
M.493-10 with Annexes 1 and 2 and M.541-8 with Annexes are incorporated 
by reference. The Director of the Federal Register approves this 
incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR 
Part 51. Copies of these standards can be inspected at the Federal 
Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 
(Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. The 
ITU-R Recommendations can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
33. Section 80.203 is amended by removing and reserving paragraph (e), 
revising paragraph (g), and adding paragraph (o) to read as follows:
* * * * *


Sec.  80.203  Authorization of transmitters for licensing.

* * * * *
    (g) Manufacturers of ship earth station transmitters intended for 
use in the INMARSAT space segment must comply with the verification 
procedures given in part 2 of this chapter. Such equipment must be 
verified in accordance with the technical requirements provided by 
INMARSAT and must be type approved by INMARSAT for use in the INMARSAT 
space segment. The ship earth station input/output parameters, the data 
obtained when the equipment is integrated in system configuration and 
the pertinent method of test procedures that are used for type approval 
of the station model which are essential for the compatible operation 
of that station in the INMARSAT space segment must be disclosed by the 
manufacturer upon request of the FCC. Witnessing of the type approval 
tests and the disclosure of the ship earth station equipment design or 
any other information of a proprietary nature will be at the discretion 
of the ship earth station manufacturer.
* * * * *

[[Page 46963]]

    (o) Existing equipment that does not comply with the rules in this 
subpart but was properly authorized as compliant with the rules in 
effect at the time of its authorization, and remains compliant with the 
rules in effect at the time of its authorization, may continue to be 
installed until February 1, 2003.

0
34. Section 80.205 is amended by adding an entry to the table in 
paragraph (a) immediately following the entry J2C and by adding 
footnote 14 to read as follows:


Sec.  80.205  Bandwidths.

    (a) * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Authorized
          Class of emission             Emission designator   bandwidth
                                                                (kHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                * * * * *
J2D \14\.............................  2K80J2D                       3.0
 
                               * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
\14\ The information is contained in multiple very low level
  subcarriers.

* * * * *

0
35. Section 80.207 is amended by revising the table in paragraph (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.207  Classes of emission.

* * * * *
    (d) * * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Types of stations                                       Classes of emission
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Ship Stations \1\
Radiotelegraphy:
    100-160 kHz..............................  A1A.
    405-525 kHz..............................  A1A, J2A.
    1605-27500 kHz:
        Manual \15\ \16\ \17\................  A1A, J2A, J2B, J2D.
        DSC \16\.............................  F1B, J2B.
        NB-DP \14\ \16\......................  F1B, J2B, J2D.
        Facsimile............................  F1C, F3C, J2C, J3C.
    1561-162 MHz \2\.........................  F1B, F2B, F2C, F3C, F1D, F2D.
        DSC..................................  G2B.
    216-220 MHz \3\..........................  F1B, F2B, F2C, F3C, F1D, F2D.
    1626.5-1646.5 MHz........................  (\4\)
Radiotelephony:
    1605-27500 kHz \5\ \16\..................  H3E, J2D, J3E, R3E.
    27.5-470 MHz \6\.........................  G3D, G3E.
    1626.5-1646.5 MHz........................  (\4\)
Radiodetermination:
    285-325 kHz \7\..........................  A1A, A2A.
    405-525 kHz (Direction Finding) \8\......  A3N, H3N, J3N, N0N.
    154-159 MHz: \12\........................  A1D, A2D, F1D, F2D, G1D, G2D.
    2.4-9.5 GHz..............................  P0N.
    14.00-14.05 ghZ..........................  F3N.
 
              Land Stations \1\
 
Radiotelegraphy:
    100-160 kHz..............................  A1A.
    405-525 kHz..............................  A1A, J2A.
    1605-2805 kHz:
        Manual...............................  A1A, J2A.
        Facsimile............................  F1C, F3C, J2C, J3C.
        Alaska-Fixed.........................  A1A, J2A.
    4000-27500 kHz:
        Manual \16\..........................  A1A, J2A, J2B, J2D.
        DSC \18\.............................  F1B, J2B.
        NB-DP \14\ \18\......................  F1B, J2B, J2D.
        Facsimile............................  F1C, F3C, J2C, J3C.
        Alaska--Fixed \17\ \18\..............  A1A, A2A, F1B, F2B, J2B, J2D.
    72-76 MHz................................  A1A, A2A, F1B, F2B.
    156-162 MHz \2\..........................  F1B, F2B, F2C, F3C, F1D, F2D.
        DSC..................................  G2B.
    216-220 MHz \3\..........................  F1B, F2B, F2C, F3C, F1D, F2D.
Radiotelephony:
    1605-27500 kHz \18\ \19\.................  H3E, J2D, J3E, R3E.
    72-76 MHz................................  A3E, F3E, G3E.
    156-740 MHz..............................  G3E.
Radiodetermination:
    2.4-9.6 GHz..............................  P0N.
Distress, Urgency and Safety \8\\9\
    2182 kHz \10\ \11\.......................  A2B, A3B, H2B, H3E, J2B, J3E.
    121.500 MHz..............................  A3E, A3X, N0N.
    123.100 MHz..............................  A3E.
    156.750 and 156.800 MHz \13\.............  G3E, G3N.
    243.000 MHz..............................  A3E, A3X, N0N.
    406-406.1 MHz............................  G1D.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Excludes distress, EPIRBs, survival craft, and automatic link establishment.
\2\ Frequencies used for public correspondence and in Alaska 156.425 MHz. See Sec.  Sec.   80.371(c), 80.373(f)
  and 80.385(b). Transmitters approved before January 1, 1994, for G3E emissions will be authorized indefinitely
  for F2C, F3C, F1D and F2D emissions. Transmitters approved on or after January 1, 1994, will be authorized for
  F2C, F3C, F1D or F2D emissions only if they are approved specifically for each emission designator.

[[Page 46964]]

 
\3\ Frequencies used in the Automated Maritime Telecommunications System (AMTS). See Sec.  80.385(b).
\4\ Types of emission are determined by the INMARSAT Organization.
\5\ Transmitters type accepted prior to December 31, 1969, for emission H3E, J3E, and R3E and an authorized
  bandwidth of 3.5 kHz may continue to be operated. These transmitters will not be authorized in new
  installations.
\6\ G3D emission must be used only by one-board stations for maneuvering or navigation.
\7\ Frequencies used for cable repair operations. See Sec.  80.375(b).
\8\ For direction finding requirements see Sec.   80.375.
\9\ Includes distress emissions used by ship, coast, EPIRBs and survival craft stations.
\10\ On 2182 kHz A1B, A2B, H2B and J2B emissions indicate transmission of the auto alarm signals.
\11\ Ships on domestic voyages must use J3E emission only.
\12\ For frequencies 154.585 MHz, 159.480 MHz, 160.725 MHz, 160.785 MHz, 454.000 MHz and 459.000 MHz, authorized
  for offshore radiolocation and related telecommand operations.
\13\ Class C EPIRB stations may not be used after February 1, 1999.
\14\ NB-DP operations which are not in accordance with ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph
  Equipment Employing Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, or ITU-R
  Recommendation M.476-5, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex,
  1995, are permitted to utilize any modulation, so long as emissions are within the limits set forth in Sec.
  80.211(f) of this chapter. ITU-R Recommendations M.476-5 and M.625-3 with Annexes are incorporated by
  reference. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5
  U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of these standards can be inspected at the Federal Communications
  Commission, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the Federal
  Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendations can be purchased
  from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
\15\ J2B is permitted only on 2000-27500 kHz.
\16\ J2D is permitted only on 2000-27500 kHz, and ship stations employing J2D emissions shall at no time use a
  peak envelope power in excess of 1.5 kW per channel.
\17\ J2B and J2D are permitted provided they do not cause harmful interference to A1A.
\18\ Coast stations employing J2D emissions shall at no time use a peak envelope power in excess of 10 kW per
  channel.
\19\ J2D is permitted only on 2000-27500 kHz.


0
36. Section 80.209 is amended by revising the table in paragraph (a) to 
read as follows.


Sec.  80.209  Transmitter frequency tolerances.

    (a) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Frequency bands and categories of stations         Tolerances \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Band 100-525 kHz:
    (i) Coast stations:
        For single sideband emissions.........  20 Hz.
        For transmitters with narrow-band       10 Hz \2\
         direct printing and data emissions.
        For transmitters with digital           10 Hz.
         selective calling emissions.
        For all other emissions...............  100.
    (ii) Ship stations:
        For transmitters with narrow-band       20 Hz.
         direct printing and data emissions.
        For transmitters with digital           10 Hz \2\
         selective calling emissions.
        For all other transmitters............  10 Hz.
    (iii) Ship stations for emergency only:
        For all emissions.....................  20 Hz.
    (iv) Survival craft stations:
        For all emissions.....................  20 Hz.
    (v) Radiodetermination stations:
        For all emissions.....................  100.
(2) Band 1600-4000 kHz:
    (i) Coast stations and Alaska fixed
     stations:
        For single sideband and facsimile.....  20 Hz.
        For narrow-band direct printing and     10 Hz.\2\
         data emissions.
        For transmitters with digital           10 Hz.\2\
         selective calling emissions.
        For all other emissions...............  50 Hz.
    (ii) Ship stations:
        For transmitters with narrow-band       10 Hz.\2\
         direct printing and data emissions.
        For transmitters with digital           10 Hz.\3\
         selective calling emissions.
        For all other transmitters............  20 Hz.
    (iii) Survival craft stations:              20 Hz.
    (iv) Radiodetermination stations:
        With power 200W or less...............  20.
        With power above 200W.................  10.
(3) Band 4000-27500 kHz:
    (i) Coast stations and Alaska fixed
     stations:
        For single sideband and facsimile       20 Hz.
         emissions.
        For narrow-band direct printing and     10 Hz.\2\
         data emissions.
        For digital selective calling           10 Hz.
         emissions.
        For Morse telegraphy emissions........  10.
        For all other emissions...............  15 Hz.
    (ii) Ship stations:
        For transmitters with narrow-band       10 Hz.\2\
         direct printing and data emissions.
        For transmitters with digital           10 Hz.\3\
         selective calling emissions.
        For all other transmitters............  20 Hz.
    (iii) Survival craft stations:              50 Hz.
(4) Band 72-76 MHz:

[[Page 46965]]

 
    (i) Fixed stations:
        Operating in the 72.0-73.0 and 75.4-    5.
         76.0 MHz bands.
        Operating in the 73.74.6 MHz band.....  50.
(5) Band 156-162 MHz:
    (i) Coast stations:
        For carriers licensed to operate with
         a carrier power:
            Below 3 watts.....................  10.
            3 to 100 watts....................  5.\7\
    (ii) Ship stations........................  10.\4\
    (iii) Survival craft stations operating on  50.
     121.500 MHz.
    (iv) EPIRBs:
        Operating on 121.500 and 243.000 MHz..  50.
        Operating on 156.750 and 156.800        10.
         MHz.\6\.
(6) Band 216-220 MHz:
    (i) Coast stations:
        For all emissions.....................  5.
    (ii) Ship stations:
        For all emissions.....................  5.
(7) Band 400-466 MHz:
    (i) EPIRBs operating on 406-406.1 MHz.....  5.
    (ii) On-board stations....................  5.
    (iii) Radiolocation and telecommand         5.
     stations..
(8) Band 1626.5-1646.5 MHz:
    (i) Ship earth stations...................  5.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Transmitters authorized prior to January 2, 1990, with frequency
  tolerances equal to or better than those required after this date will
  continue to be authorized in the maritime services provided they
  retain approval and comply with the applicable standards in this part.
\2\ The frequency tolerance for narrow-band direct printing and data
  transmitters installed before January 2, 1992, is 15 Hz for coast
  stations and 20 Hz for ship stations. The frequency tolerance for
  narrow-band direct printing and data transmitters approved or
  installed after January 1, 1992, is 10 Hz.
\3\ [Reserved].
\4\ For transmitters in the radiolocation and associated telecommand
  service operating on 154.584 MHz, 159.480 MHz, 160.725 MHz and 160.785
  MHz the frequency tolerance is 15 parts in 10 \6\.
\5\ [Reserved].
\6\ Class C EPIRB stations may not be used after February 1, 1999.
\7\ For transmitters operated at private coast stations with antenna
  heights less than 6 meters (20 feet) above ground and output power of
  25 watts or less the frequency tolerance is 10 parts in 10 \6\.


0
37. Section 80.213 is amended by revising paragraphs (h), (i) 
introductory text and (i)(1)(vii) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.213  Modulation requirements.

* * * * *
    (h) Radar transponder coast stations using the 2900-3100 MHz or 
9300-9500 MHz band must operate in a variable frequency mode and 
respond on their operating frequencies with a maximum error equivalent 
to 100 meters. Additionally, their response must be encoded with a 
Morse character starting with a dash. The duration of a Morse dot is 
defined as equal to the width of a space and 1/3 of the width of a 
Morse dash. The duration of the response code must not exceed 50 
microseconds. The sensitivity of the stations must be adjustable so 
that received signals below -10 dBm at the antenna will not activate 
the transponder. Antenna polarization must be horizontal when operating 
in the 9300-9500 MHz band and either horizontal or both horizontal and 
vertical when operating in the 2900-3100 MHz band. Racons using 
frequency agile transmitting techniques must include circuitry designed 
to reduce interference caused by triggering from radar antenna 
sidelobes.
    (i) Variable frequency ship station transponders operating in the 
2900-3100 MHz or 9300-9500 MHz band that are not used for search and 
rescue purposes must meet the following requirements:
    (1) * * *
    (vii) Antenna polarization must be horizontal when operating in the 
9300-9500 MHz band and either horizontal or both horizontal and 
vertical when operating in the 2900-3100 MHz band.
* * * * *

0
38. Section 80.215 is amended by revising paragraphs (c)(1), (e)(1) and 
(g)(1), by removing paragraph (g)(2), redesignating paragraphs (g)(3) 
through (g)(5) as paragraphs (g)(2) through (g)(4) and revising newly 
designated paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.215  Transmitter power.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) Coast stations:

156-162 MHz-50W \1, 2, 13\
216-220 MHz \2\
* * * * *
    (e) * * *

(1) Ship stations 156-162 MHz--25W \6, 13\
Marine utility stations and hand-held portable transmitters: 156-162 
MHz-10W

    \1\ Maximum authorized power at the input terminals of the 
station antenna.
    \2\ See paragraph (h) of this section.
* * * * *
    \6\ Reducible to 1 watt or less, except for transmitters limited 
to public correspondence channels and used in an automated system.
* * * * *
    \13\ The frequencies 156.775 and 156.825 MHz are available for 
navigation-related port operations or ship movement only, and all 
precautions must be taken to avoid harmful interference to channel 
16. Transmitter output power is limited to 1 watt for ship stations, 
and 10 watts for coast stations.

    (g) * * *
    (1) All transmitters and remote control units must be capable of 
reducing the carrier power to one watt or less;
    (2) Except as indicated in paragraph (g)(3) of this section, all 
transmitters manufactured after January 21, 1987, or in use after 
January 21, 1997, must automatically reduce the carrier power to one 
watt or less when the transmitter is tuned to 156.375 MHz or 156.650 
MHz, and must be provided with a manual override switch which when

[[Page 46966]]

held by an operator will permit full carrier power operation on 156.375 
MHz and 156.650 MHz;
    (3) Hand-held portable transmitters are not required to comply with 
the automatic reduction of carrier power in paragraph (g)(2) of this 
section; and
* * * * *

0
39. Section 80.219 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.219  Special requirements for narrow-band direct-printing (NB-
DP) equipment.

    NB-DP and data transmission equipment installed in ship and coast 
stations before October 1, 1990, that operates on the frequencies in 
the 4,000-27,500 kHz bands must be capable of operation in accordance 
with the technical requirements of either ITU-R Recommendation M.476-5, 
``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' 
with Annex, 1995, or ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing 
Telegraph Equipment Employing Automatic Identification in the Maritime 
Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, and may be used indefinitely. 
Equipment installed on or after October 1, 1990, must be capable of 
operation in accordance with the technical requirements of ITU-R 
Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment Employing 
Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 
1995. NB-DP and data transmission equipment are additionally permitted 
to utilize any modulation, so long as emissions are within the limits 
set forth in Sec.  80.211(f) and the equipment is also capable of 
operation in accordance with ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-
Printing Telegraph Equipment Employing Automatic Identification in the 
Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995. ITU-R Recommendations M. 
476-5 and M.625-3 with Annexes are incorporated by reference. The 
Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies 
of these standards can be inspected at the Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information 
Center) or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendations can 
be purchased from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 
Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.

0
40. Section 80.223 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.223  Special requirements for survival craft stations.

    (a) Survival craft stations capable of transmitting on:
    (1) 2182 kHz must be able to operate with A2B and A3E or H2B and 
H3E and J2B and J3E emissions;
    (2) 121.500 MHz must be able to operate with A3E or A3N emission.
    (b) Survival craft stations must be able to receive the frequency 
and types of emission which the transmitter is capable of using.
    (c) Any EPIRB carried as part of a survival craft must comply with 
the specific technical and performance requirements for its class 
contained in subpart V of this chapter.

0
41. Section 80.225 is amended by revising the introductory paragraph 
and paragraphs (a) and (c)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.225  Requirements for selective calling equipment.

    This section specifies the requirements for voluntary digital 
selective calling (DSC) equipment and selective calling equipment 
installed in ship and coast stations, and incorporates by reference 
ITU-R Recommendation M.476-5, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment in 
the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995; ITU-R Recommendation 
M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling System for Use in the Maritime 
Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 2000; ITU-R Recommendation 
M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment Employing Automatic 
Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995; and 
RTCM Paper 56-95/SC101-STD, ``RTCM Recommended Minimum Standards for 
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Equipment Providing Minimum Distress 
and Safety Capability,'' Version 1.0, dated August 10, 1995. ITU-R 
Recommendations M.476-5 with Annex, M.493-10 with Annexes 1 and 2, and 
M.625-3 with Annex, and RTCM Paper 56-95/SC101-STD are incorporated by 
reference. The Director of the Federal Register approves this 
incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR 
Part 51. Copies of these standards can be inspected at the Federal 
Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 
(Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, DC. The 
ITU-R Recommendations can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland. The RTCM standards can be purchased from the Radio 
Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM), Suite 600, 1800 
Diagonal Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2480.
    (a) DSC equipment voluntarily installed in coast or ship stations 
must meet either the requirements of ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, 
``Digital Selective-calling System for Use in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 2000 (including only equipment classes 
A, B, D, and E) or RTCM Paper 56-95/SC101-STD. DSC equipment must not 
be used with the sensors referred to in Sec.  80.179(e)(2). DSC 
equipment used on compulsorily fitted ships must meet the requirements 
contained in subpart W of this part for GMDSS.
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) Equipment used to perform a selective calling function during 
narrow-band direct-printing (NB-DP) operations in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.476-5, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment in the 
Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, or ITU-R Recommendation 
M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment Employing Automatic 
Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, ITU-
R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling System for Use 
in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 2000, and
* * * * *

0
42. Section 80.251 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.251  Scope.

    (a) This subpart gives the general technical requirements for 
certification of equipment used on compulsory ships. Such equipment 
includes automatic-alarm-signal keying devices, survival craft radio 
equipment, watch receivers, and radar.
* * * * *


Sec. Sec.  80.253 through 80.267  [Removed]

0
43. Sections 80.253 through 80.267 are removed.

0
44. Section 80.269 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) 
to read as follows:


Sec.  80.269  Technical requirements for radiotelephone distress 
frequency watch receiver.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) The receiver must be capable of being switched to 2182 kHz and 
of receiving signals of at least A2A and A2B emissions;
    (2) The receiver sensitivity must provide a SINAD of 20 dB at the 
audio

[[Page 46967]]

output when a 30 microvolt signal with A2A or A2B emission modulated 
30% at 400 Hz is applied to the receiver RF terminals;
* * * * *

0
45. Section 80.273 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.273  Technical requirements for radar equipment.

    (a) Radar installations on board ships that are required by the 
Safety Convention or the U.S. Coast Guard to be equipped with radar 
must comply with either the document referenced in paragraph (a)(1) of 
this section or the applicable document referenced in paragraphs (a)(2) 
through (4) of this section. These documents contain specifications, 
standards and general requirements applicable to shipboard radar 
equipment and shipboard radar installations. For purposes of this part 
the specifications, standards and general requirements stated in these 
documents are mandatory irrespective of discretionary language. The 
standards listed in paragraphs (a)(1), (2), (3), and (4) of this 
section are incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal 
Register approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of these standards can be 
inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, 
SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW. Suite 700, 
Washington, DC. The standards referenced in paragraphs (a)(1), (2), and 
(3) of this section can be purchased from the Radio Technical 
Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM), Suite 600, 1800 Diagonal Road, 
Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2480; telephone 703-684-4481; fax 703-684-
4229; email [email protected]. The standard referenced in section (a)(4) 
can be purchased from International Maritime Organization (IMO), 
Publications, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7 SR, United Kingdom; 
telephone 011 44 71 735 7611.
    (1) Radar installed on or after July 1, 1988, on ships of 500 gross 
tons and upwards that were constructed on or after September 1, 1984, 
must comply with the provisions of RTCM Paper 133-87-SC 103-33 
including Appendix A. Title: ``RTCM Recommended Performance 
Specification for a General Purpose Navigational Radar Set for 
Oceangoing Ships of 500 Gross Tons and Upwards for New Radar 
Installations.'' Title of Appendix A: ``General Purpose Shipborne 
Navigational Radar Set for Oceangoing Ships Design and Testing 
Specifications.'' Document originally approved by RTCM August 15, 1985 
and revised May 15, 1987.
    (2) Radar installed on ships of 1,600 gross tons and upwards on or 
before April 27, 1981, must comply with the provisions of Volume II of 
RTCM Special Committee No. 65 Final Report; Part II. Title: 
``Performance Specification for a General Purpose Navigational Radar 
Set for Oceangoing Ships of 1,600 Tons Gross Tonnage and Upwards for 
Ships Already Fitted.'' Document approved by RTCM July 18, 1978; 
effective as FCC requirement on April 27, 1981.
    (3) Radar installed on ships of 1,600 gross tons and upwards after 
April 27, 1981 and before July 1, 1988, must comply with the provisions 
of Volume II of RTCM Special Committee No. 65 Final Report with Change 
1 entered; Part I including Appendix A. Title: ``Performance 
Specification for a General Purpose Navigational Radar Set for 
Oceangoing Ships of 1,600 Tons Gross Tonnage and Upwards for New Radar 
Installations.'' Title of Appendix A: ``General Purpose Shipborne 
Navigational Radar Set for Oceangoing Ships Design and Testing 
Specifications.'' Document approved by RTCM July 18, 1978; effective as 
FCC requirement on April 27, 1981.
    (4) Ships between 500 and 1,600 gross tons constructed on or after 
September 1, 1984, with radar installed before July 1, 1988, must 
comply with Regulation 12, Chapter V of the Safety Convention and with 
the provisions of Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization 
(IMCO) [now International Maritime Organization] Resolution A.477 
(XII). Title: ``Performance Standards for Radar Equipment,'' with 
Annex. Adopted by IMCO November 19, 1981.
    (b) For ships of 10,000 gross tons or more and any other ship that 
is required to be equipped with two radar systems, each of these 
systems must be capable of operating independently and must comply with 
the specifications, standards and general requirements established by 
paragraph (a) of this section. One of the systems must provide a 
display with an effective diameter of not less than 340 millimeters 
(13.4 inches), (16 inch cathode ray tube). The other system must 
provide a display with an effective diameter of not less than 250 
millimeters (9.8 inches), (12 inch cathode ray tube).
    (c) Recommendations for tools, test equipment, spares and technical 
manuals are contained in Part IV of Volume III of the RTCM SC-65 Final 
Report approved by RTCM July 18, 1978.

0
46. Section 80.302 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.302  Notice of discontinuance, reduction, or impairment of 
service involving a distress watch.

    (a) When changes occur in the operation of a public coast station 
which include discontinuance, reduction or suspension of a watch 
required to be maintained on 2182 kHz or 156.800 MHz, notification must 
be made by the licensee to the nearest district office of the U.S. 
Coast Guard as soon as practicable. The notification must include the 
estimated or known resumption time of the watch.
* * * * *


Sec.  80.304  [Amended]

0
47. Section 80.304 is amended by removing paragraph (a), and 
redesignating paragraph (b) as the undesignated paragraph.

0
48. Section 80.305 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(3) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.305  Watch requirements of the Communications Act and the 
Safety Convention.

    (a) * * *
    (3) Until February 1, 2005, keep a continuous and efficient watch 
on the VHF distress frequency 156.800 MHz from the room from which the 
vessel is normally steered while in the open sea outside a harbor or 
port. The watch must be maintained by a designated member of the crew 
who may perform other duties, relating to the operation or navigation 
of the vessel, provided such other duties do not interfere with the 
effectiveness of the watch. Use of a properly adjusted squelch or brief 
interruptions due to other nearby VHF transmissions are not considered 
to adversely affect the continuity or efficiency of the required watch 
on the VHF distress frequency. This watch need not be maintained by 
vessels subject to the Bridge-to-Bridge Act and participating in a 
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) system as required or recommended by the 
U.S. Coast Guard, when an efficient listening watch is maintained on 
both the bridge-to-bridge frequency and a separate assigned VTS 
frequency.
* * * * *

0
49. Section 80.310 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.310  Watch required by voluntary vessels.

    Voluntary vessels not equipped with DSC must maintain a watch on 
156.800 MHz (Channel 16) whenever the vessel

[[Page 46968]]

is underway and the radio is not being used to communicate. 
Noncommercial vessels, such as recreational boats, may alternatively 
maintain a watch on 156.450 MHz (Channel 9) for call and reply 
purposes. Voluntary vessels equipped with VHF-DSC equipment must 
maintain a watch on either 156.525 MHz (Channel 70) or VHF Channel 16 
aurally whenever the vessel is underway and the radio is not being used 
to communicate. Voluntary vessels equipped with MF-HF DSC equipment 
must have the radio turned on and set to an appropriate DSC distress 
calling channel or one of the radiotelephone distress channels whenever 
the vessel is underway and the radio is not being used to communicate. 
Voluntary vessels equipped with Inmarsat A, B, or C systems must have 
the unit turned on and set to receive calls whenever the vessel is 
underway and the radio is not being used to communicate.

0
50. Section 80.313 is amended by revising the table to read as follows:


Sec.  80.313  Frequencies for use in distress.

* * * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Frequency band                     Emission                         Carrier frequency
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1605-3500 kHz.......................  J3E....................  2182 kHz.
118-136 MHz.........................  A3E....................  121.500 MHz.
156-162 MHz.........................  F3E, PON...............  156.800 MHz 156.750 MHz.
243 MHz.............................  A3N....................  243.000 MHz.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *


Sec.  80.314  [Amended]

0
51. Section 80.314 is amended by removing paragraph (a), and 
redesignating paragraphs (b) and (c) as paragraphs (a) and (b).

0
52. Section 80.315 is amended by removing paragraph (a), redesignating 
paragraph (b) as paragraph (a), and adding a new paragraph (b) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  80.315  Distress calls.

* * * * *
    (b) The procedures for canceling false distress alerts are 
contained in Sec.  80.335.

0
53. Section 80.316 is amended by removing paragraph (a), redesignating 
paragraphs (b) and (c) as paragraphs (a) and (b), and adding new 
paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.316  Distress messages.

* * * * *
    (c) The procedures for canceling false distress alerts are 
contained in Sec.  80.335.

0
54. Section 80.320 is amended by redesignating paragraphs (b), (c), (d) 
and (e) as paragraphs (c), (d), (e) and (f) respectively, and adding a 
new paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.320  Radiotelephone distress call and message transmission 
procedure.

* * * * *
    (b) The DSC distress procedure consists of:
    (1) Transmission by a mobile unit in distress;
    (2) Reception;
    (3) Acknowledgement of distress calls;
    (4) Distress relays.
* * * * *

0
55. Add Sec.  80.334 to read as follows:


Sec.  80.334  False distress alerts.

    A distress alert is false if it was transmitted without any 
indication that a mobile unit or person was in distress and required 
immediate assistance. Transmitting a false distress alert is prohibited 
and may be subject to the provisions of part 1, subpart A of this 
chapter if that alert:
    (a) Was transmitted intentionally;
    (b) Was not cancelled in accordance with Sec.  80.335;
    (c) Could not be verified as a result of either the ship's failure 
to keep watch on appropriate frequencies in accordance with Sec.  
80.1123 or subpart G of this part, or its failure to respond to calls 
from the U.S. Coast Guard;
    (d) Was repeated; or
    (e) Was transmitted using a false identity.

0
56. Add Sec.  80.335 to read as follows:


Sec.  80.335  Procedures for canceling false distress alerts.

    If a distress alert is inadvertently transmitted, the following 
steps shall be taken to cancel the distress alert.
    (a) VHF Digital Selective Calling.
    (1) Reset the equipment immediately;
    (2) Transmit a DSC distress alert cancellation (i.e., own ship's 
acknowledgment), if that feature is available;
    (3) Set to Channel 16; and
    (4) Transmit a broadcast message to ``All stations'' giving the 
ship's name, call sign or registration number, and MMSI, and cancel the 
false distress alert.
    (b) MF Digital Selective Calling.
    (1) Reset the equipment immediately;
    (2) Transmit a DSC distress alert cancellation (i.e., own ship's 
acknowledgment), if that feature is available;
    (3) Tune for radiotelephony transmission on 2182 kHz; and
    (4) Transmit a broadcast message to ``All stations'' giving the 
ship's name, call sign or registration number, and MMSI, and cancel the 
false distress alert.
    (c) HF Digital Selective Calling;
    (1) Reset the equipment immediately;
    (2) Transmit a DSC distress alert cancellation (i.e., own ship's 
acknowledgment), if that feature is available, on each frequency on 
which the distress alert was transmitted;
    (3) Tune for radiotelephony on the distress and safety frequency in 
each band in which a false distress alert was transmitted; and
    (4) Transmit a broadcast message to ``All stations'' giving the 
ship's name, call sign or registration number, and MMSI, and cancel the 
false distress alert frequency in each band in which a false distress 
alert was transmitted.
    (d) INMARSAT ship earth station. Immediately notify the appropriate 
rescue coordination center that the alert is cancelled by sending a 
distress priority message by way of the same land earth station through 
which the false distress alert was sent. Provide ship name, call sign 
or registration number, and INMARSAT identity with the cancelled alert 
message.
    (e) EPIRB. If for any reason an EPIRB is activated inadvertently, 
immediately contact the nearest U.S. Coast Guard unit or appropriate 
rescue coordination center by telephone, radio or ship earth station 
and cancel the distress alert.
    (f) General and other distress alerting systems. Notwithstanding 
paragraphs (a) through (e) of this section, ships may use additional 
appropriate means available to them to inform the nearest appropriate 
U.S. Coast Guard rescue coordination center that a false distress alert 
has been transmitted and should be cancelled.


Sec.  80.353  [Removed and Reserved]

0
57. Section 80.353 is removed and reserved.

0
58. Section 80.355 is amended by removing paragraph (c)(1), 
redesignating paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(3) as (c)(1) and (c)(2), and 
revising newly designated

[[Page 46969]]

paragraph (c)(1) and revising paragraph (d)(2) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.355  Distress, urgency, safety, call and reply Morse code 
frequencies.

* * * * *
    (c) Frequencies in the 2000-27500 kHz band--(1) Ship station 
frequencies. The following table describes the calling frequencies in 
the 4000-27500 kHz band which are available for use by authorized ship 
stations equipped with crystal-controlled oscillators for A1A, J2A, 
J2B, or J2D radiotelegraphy. There are two series of frequencies for 
worldwide use and two series of frequencies for each geographic region. 
Ship stations with synthesized transmitters may operate on every full 
100 Hz increment in the 0.5 kHz channel for the frequencies listed, 
except for 100 Hz above and below those designated for worldwide use. 
During normal business hours when not communicating on other 
frequencies, all U.S. coast radiotelegraph stations must monitor the 
worldwide frequencies and the initial calling frequencies for the 
region in which it is located. The specific frequencies which must be 
monitored by a coast station will vary with propagation conditions. The 
calling frequencies which are routinely monitored by specific coast 
stations can be determined by reference to the ITU publication entitled 
``List of Coast Stations.'' Initial calls by ship stations must be made 
on the appropriate initial calling frequency first. Calls on the 
worldwide frequencies may be made only after calls on the appropriate 
initial calling frequency are unsuccessful.

                                                          Ship Morse Calling Frequencies (kHz)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                ITU  ........  ........  ........  .........  .........  .........       ITU   .........
Region:
    Worldwide...............................................      3    4184.0    6276.0    8368.0    12552.0    16736.0    22280.5          C    25172.0
                                                                  4    4184.5    6276.5    8369.0    12553.5    16738.0    22281.0          C    25172.0
    Atlantic:
        Initial.............................................      1    4182.0    6277.0    8366.0    12550.0    16734.0    22279.5         A     25171.5
        Alternate...........................................      2    4182.5    6277.5    8366.5    12550.5    16734.5    22280.0         A     25171.5
    Caribbean:
        Initial.............................................      1    4182.0    6277.0    8366.0    12550.0    16734.0    22279.5         A     25171.5
        Alternate...........................................      2    4182.5    6277.5    8366.5    12550.5    16734.5    22280.0         A     25171.5
    Gulf-Mexico:
        Initial.............................................      5    4183.0    6278.0    8367.0    12551.0    16735.0    22281.5         A     25171.5
        Alternate...........................................      6    4183.5    6278.5    8367.5    12551.5    16735.5    22282.0         A     25171.5
    N Pacific:
        Initial.............................................      7    4185.0    6279.0    8368.5    12552.5    16736.5    22282.5         B     25172.5
        Alternate...........................................      8    4185.5    6279.5    8369.5    12553.0    16737.0    22283.0         B     25172.5
    S Pacific:..............................................
        Initial.............................................      9    4186.0    6280.0    8370.0    12554.0    16737.5    22283.5         B     25172.5
        Alternate...........................................     10    4186.5    6280.5    8370.5    12554.5    16738.5    22284.0         B     25172.5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (2) EPIRB stations may be assigned 121.500 MHz and 243 MHz using 
A3E, A3X and NON emission or 406.0-406.1 MHz using G1D emission to aid 
search and rescue operations. See subpart V of this part.

0
59. Section 80.357 is amended by revising the section heading, 
introductory text and the text preceding the table in paragraph (b)(1) 
to read as follows:


Sec.  80.357  Working frequencies for Morse code and data transmission.

    This section describes the working frequencies assignable to 
maritime stations for A1A, J2A, J2B (2000-27500 kHz band only), or J2D 
(2000-27500 kHz band only) radiotelegraphy.
* * * * *
    (b) Coast station frequencies--(1) Frequencies in the 100-27500 kHz 
band. The following table describes the working carrier frequencies in 
the 100-27500 kHz band which are assignable to coast stations located 
in the designated geographical areas. The exclusive maritime mobile HF 
bands listed in the table contained in Sec.  80.363(a)(2) of this 
chapter are also available for assignment to public coast stations for 
A1A, J2A, J2B, or J2D radiotelegraphy following coordination with 
government users.
* * * * *

0
60. In Sec.  80.359 remove the number ``4209.5'' and add in its place 
the number ``4209.0'' in the table of paragraph (a) and revise 
paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.359  Frequencies for digital selective calling (DSC).

* * * * *
    (b) Distress and safety calling. The frequencies 2187.5 kHz, 4207.5 
kHz, 6312.0 kHz, 8414.5 kHz, 12577.0 kHz, 16804.5 kHz and 156.525 MHz 
may be used for DSC by coast and ship stations on a simplex basis for 
distress and safety purposes. The provisions and procedures for 
distress and safety calling are contained in ITU-R Recommendation 
M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital Selective-
Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes, 1997, 
as modified by Sec.  80.103(c). ITU-R Recommendation M.541-8 with 
Annexes is incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal 
Register approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be 
inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, 
SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, 
Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the 
International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 
Geneva 20, Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
61. Section 80.361 is amended by removing paragraph (a)(2), 
redesignating paragraph (a)(1) as paragraph (a) and by revising the 
text preceding the table in paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.361  Frequencies for narrow-band direct-printing (NBDP), 
radioprinter and data transmissions.

* * * * *
    (b) The following table describes the frequencies and Channel 
Series with F1B, J2B, or J2D emission which are assignable to ship 
stations for NBDP and data transmissions with other ship stations and 
public coast stations. Public coast stations may receive only on these 
frequencies.
* * * * *

[[Page 46970]]


0
62. Section 80.363 is amended by revising the table in paragraph (a)(1) 
to read as follows:


Sec.  80.363  Frequencies for facsimile.

    (a) * * *
    (1) * * *

                                 Assignable Ship Frequencies for Facsimile (kHz)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    2070.5         4154         6235         8302        12370        16551        18848       22182       25123
    2072.5         4170         6259         8338        12418        16615        18868       22238       25159
    2074.5   ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ..........  ..........  ..........
    2076.5   ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ..........  ..........  ..........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

0
63. Section 80.373 is amended by revising paragraph (c)(2)(ii) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  80.373  Private communications frequencies.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (ii) The emissions must be J3E or J2D except that when DSC is used 
the emission must be F1B or J2B; and
* * * * *

0
64. Section 80.374 is amended by revising the section heading and the 
introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  80.374  Provisions for frequencies in the 4000-4063 and the 8100-
8195 kHz bands shared with the fixed service.

    Coast station assignments in the 4000-4063 kHz band deviate from 
international provisions. Coast station assignments in the 4000-4063 
kHz band are permitted provided that such stations must not cause 
interference to, and must accept interference from, stations operated 
by other countries in accordance with the Radio Regulations.
* * * * *

0
65. Section 80.375 is amended by revising paragraph (a), removing 
paragraphs (d)(2)(vii), (d)(3), and (d)(4) and by revising paragraph 
(e) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.375  Radiodetermination frequencies.

* * * * *
    (a) Direction finding frequencies. The carrier frequencies 
assignable to ship stations for directional finding operations are:
Carrier Frequency
8364 kHz
121.500 MHz
243.00 MHz
* * * * *
    (e) Search and rescue radar transponder stations. The technical 
standards for search and rescue transponder stations are in subpart W 
of this part.
0
66. Section 80.401 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.401  Station documents requirement.

    Licensees of radio stations are required to have current station 
documents as indicated in the following table:
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P

[[Page 46971]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR07AU03.020

BILLING CODE 6712-01-C

    Notes: 1. The expired station license must be retained in the 
station records until the first Commission inspection after the 
expiration date.
    2. Alternatively, a list of coast stations maintained by the 
licensee with which communications are likely to be conducted, 
showing watch-keeping hours, frequencies and charges, is authorized.

[[Page 46972]]

    3. Required only if station provides a service to ocean-going 
vessels.
    4. Certification of a Great Lakes Agreement inspection may be 
made by either a log entry or issuance of a Great Lakes Agreement 
certificate. Radiotelephone logs containing entries certifying that 
a Great Lakes Agreement inspection has been conducted must be 
retained and be available for inspection by the FCC for 2 years 
after the date of the inspection.
    5. The requirements for having the GMDSS Master Plan, NIMA 
Publication 117, Admiralty List of Radio Signals or IMO Circ. 7 are 
satisfied by having any one of those four documents.


0
67. Section 80.405 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.405  Station license.

    (a) Requirement. Except as provided in Sec.  80.13(c), stations 
must have an authorization granted by the Federal Communications 
Commission.
* * * * *

0
68. Section 80.409 is amended by revising paragraphs (e)(1) through 
(e)(8) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.409  Station logs.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) A summary of all distress communications heard, and urgency 
communications affecting the station's own ship.
    (2) A summary of safety communications on other than VHF channels 
affecting the station's own ship.
    (3) An entry that pre-departure equipment checks were satisfactory 
and that required publications are on hand. Daily entries of 
satisfactory tests to ensure the continued proper functioning of GMDSS 
equipment shall be made.
    (4) An entry describing any malfunctioning GMDSS equipment and 
another entry when the equipment is restored to normal operation.
    (5) A weekly entry that:
    (i) The proper functioning of digital selective calling (DSC) 
equipment has been verified by actual communications or a test call;
    (ii) The batteries or other reserve power sources are functioning 
properly;
    (iii) The portable survival craft radio gear and radar transponders 
have been tested; and
    (iv) The EPIRBs have been inspected.
    (6) The time of any inadvertent transmissions of distress, urgency 
and safety signals including the time and method of cancellation.
    (7) At the beginning of each watch, the Officer of the Navigational 
Watch, or GMDSS Operator on watch, if one is provided, shall ensure 
that the navigation receiver is functioning properly and is 
interconnected to all GMDSS alerting devices which do not have integral 
navigation receivers, including: VHF DSC, MF DSC, satellite EPIRB and 
HF DSC or INMARSAT SES. On a ship without integral or directly 
connected navigation receiver input to GMDSS equipment, the Officer of 
the Navigational Watch, or GMDSS Operator on watch, shall update the 
embedded position in each equipment. An appropriate log entry of these 
actions shall be made.
    (8) A GMDSS radio log entry shall be made whenever GMDSS equipment 
is exchanged or replaced (ensuring that ship MMSI identifiers are 
properly updated in the replacement equipment), when major repairs to 
GMDSS equipment are accomplished, and when annual GMDSS inspections are 
conducted.
* * * * *

0
69. Section 80.415 is amended by revising the section heading and 
paragraphs (a)(5) and (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.415  Publications.

    (a) * * *
    (5) List VII A-Alphabetical List of Call Signs of Stations Used by 
the Maritime Mobile Service, Ship Station Selective Call Numbers or 
Signals and Coast Station Identification Numbers or Signals. These 
publications may be purchased from: International Telecommunication 
Union, General Secretariat-Sales Section, Place des Nations, CH-1211 
Geneva 20, Switzerland
    (b) The following publications listed in the table contained in 
Sec.  80.401 are available as follows:
    (1) IMO GMDSS Master Plan may be purchased from International 
Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications, 4 Albert Embankment, London 
SE1 7 SR, United Kingdom; telephone 011 44 71 735 7611.
    (2) U.S. NIMA Publication 117 may be purchased from Superintendent 
of Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954, telephone 
202-512-1800.
    (3) The Admiralty List of Radio Signals, Volume 5--Global Maritime 
Distress and Safety System, may be purchased from UK Hydrographic 
Office, Admiralty Way, Tauton, Somerset TA1 2DN, United Kingdom, 
telephone +44 (0)1823 337900 x3333.

0
70. Section 80.417 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.417  FCC Rules and Regulations.

    The Commission's printed publications are described in subpart C of 
part 0 of this chapter. These publications may be purchased from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402. The Commission does not furnish copies of these 
publications but will furnish a price list, Information Services and 
Publications--Bulletin No. 1, upon request. Requests for copies of this 
list may be directed to the Consumer Information Bureau, Consumer 
Information Network Division. Information bulletins and fact sheets 
containing information about communications issues and the Federal 
Communications Commission are also available on the Commission's web 
site at www.fcc.gov or ftp.fcc.gov.

0
71. Section 80.605 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (c) and 
removing paragraph (d) to read as follows:
* * * * *


Sec.  80.605  U.S. Coast Guard coordination.

* * * * *
    (b) Coast station transponders (i.e., radar beacons, or racons) 
operating in the band 2900-3100 or 9300-9500 MHz shall meet the 
requirements of ITU-R Recommendation M.824-2, ``Technical Parameters of 
Radar Beacons (RACONS),'' with Annexes, 1995. Applications for 
certification of these transponders must include a description of the 
technical characteristics of the equipment including the scheme of 
interrogation and the characteristics of the transponder response, and 
test results demonstrating the device meets each applicable requirement 
of this ITU-R recommendation. ITU-R Recommendation M.824-2 with Annexes 
is incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, 
DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, DC. The 
ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
    (c) The use of ship station transponders in the band 2900-3100 or 
9300-9500 MHz other than those described in Sec.  80.1065(a)(3) and 
Sec.  80.1095(b) is prohibited.


Sec. Sec.  80.801 through 80.806  [Removed]

0
72. Remove Sec. Sec.  80.801 through 80.806.

[[Page 46973]]

Sec.  80.807  [Redesignated as Sec.  80.268]

0
73. Section 80.807 is redesignated as Sec.  80.268.

0
74. In newly redesignated Sec.  80.268 revise the section heading and 
paragraphs (a)(5) and (b)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.268  Technical requirements for radiotelephone installation.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (5) This transmitter may be contained in the same enclosure as the 
receiver required by paragraph (b) of this section. These transmitters 
may have the capability to transmit J2D or J3E transmissions.
    (b) * * *
    (3) This receiver may be contained in the same enclosure as the 
transmitter required by paragraph (a) of this section. These receivers 
may have the capability to receive J2D or J3E transmissions.
* * * * *


Sec. Sec.  80.808 through 80.817  [Removed]

0
76. Remove Sec. Sec.  80.808 through 80.817.


Sec. Sec.  80.818 through 80.823  [Redesignated as Sec. Sec.  80.288 
through 80.293]

0
77. Sections 80.818 through 80.823 are redesignated as Sec. Sec.  
80.288 through 80.293, respectively.


Sec. Sec.  80.824 through 80.836  [Removed]

0
78. Remove Sec. Sec.  80.824 through 80.836.

Subpart Q--[Removed and reserved]

0
79. Remove and reserve subpart Q.

0
80-81. Section 80.851 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.851  Applicability.

    The radiotelephone requirements of this subpart are applicable to 
all compulsory ships which are not required to comply with subpart W of 
this part in total or in part because they have received an exemption 
from all or some of the subpart W provisions.


Sec.  80.853  [Amended]

0
82. Section 80.853 is amended by removing paragraph (e).


Sec. Sec.  80.856 and 80.857  [Removed]

0
83. Remove Sec. Sec.  80.856 and 80.857


Sec.  80.870  [Removed]

0
84. Remove Sec.  80.870.


Sec.  80.879  [Removed]

0
85. Remove Sec.  80.879.

0
86. Add new Sec.  80.880 to subpart R to read as follows:


Sec.  80.880  Vessel radio equipment.

    (a) Vessels operated solely within twenty nautical miles of shore 
must be equipped with a VHF radiotelephone installation as described in 
this subpart, and maintain a continuous watch on Channel 16.
    (b) Vessels operated solely within one hundred nautical miles of 
shore must be equipped with a medium frequency transmitter capable of 
transmitting J3E emission and a receiver capable of reception of J3E 
emission within the band 1710 to 2850 kHz, in addition to the VHF 
radiotelephone installation required by paragraph (a) of this section, 
and must maintain a continuous watch on 2182 kHz. Additionally, such 
vessels must be equipped with either:
    (1) A single sideband radiotelephone capable of operating on all 
distress and safety frequencies in the medium frequency and high 
frequency bands listed in Sec.  80.369(a) and (b), on all the ship-to-
shore calling frequencies in the high frequency bands listed in Sec.  
80.369(d), and on at least four of the automated mutual-assistance 
vessel rescue (AMVER) system HF duplex channels (this requirement may 
be met by the addition of such frequencies to the radiotelephone 
installation required by paragraph (b) of this section); or
    (2) If operated in an area within the coverage of an INMARSAT 
maritime mobile geostationary satellite in which continuous alerting is 
available, an INMARSAT ship earth station meeting the equipment 
authorization rules of parts 2 and 80 of this chapter.

0
87. Add Sec.  80.881 to subpart R to read as follows:


Sec.  80.881  Equipment requirements for ship stations.

    Vessels subject to subpart R of this part must be equipped as 
follows:
    (a) A category 1, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  80.1061;
    (b) A NAVTEX receiver meeting the requirements of Sec.  
80.1101(c)(1);
    (c) A Search and Rescue Transponder meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  80.1101(c)(6); and
    (d) A two-way VHF radiotelephone meeting the requirements of Sec.  
80.1101(c)(7).

0
88. Section 80.905 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3)(v), 
(vi) and (vii), (a)(4)(v) and (ix) and paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.905  Vessel radio equipment.

    (a) * * *
    (2) Vessels operated beyond the 20 nautical mile limitation 
specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, but not more than 100 
nautical miles from the nearest land, must be equipped with a MF 
transmitter capable of transmitting J3E emission and a receiver capable 
of reception of J3E emission within the band 1710 to 2850 kHz, in 
addition to the VHF radiotelephone installation required by paragraph 
(a)(1) of this section. The MF transmitter and receiver must be capable 
of operation on 2670 kHz.
    (3) * * *
    (v) Be equipped with a NAVTEX receiver conforming to the following 
performance standards: IMO Resolution A.525(13), ``Performance 
standards for narrow-band direct printing telegraph equipment for the 
reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent 
information to ships,'' including Annex, adopted November 17, 1983, and 
ITU-R Recommendation M.540-2, ``Operational and Technical 
Characteristics for an Automated Direct-printing Telegraph System for 
Promulgation of Navigational and Meteorological Warnings and Urgent 
Information to Ships,'' including Annexes, 1990. IMO Resolution 
A.525(13), including Annex, and ITU-R Recommendation M.540-2, including 
Annexes, are incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal 
Register approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of these standards can be 
inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, 
SW, Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, 
Washington, DC. IMO Resolution A.525(13) can be purchased from 
Publications, International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, 
London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom. ITU-R Recommendation M.540-2, including 
Annexes, can be purchased from the International Telecommunication 
Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland;
    (vi) Be equipped with a Category I 406.0-406.1 MHz satellite 
emergency position-indicating radiobeacon (EPIRB) meeting the 
requirements of Sec.  80.1061; and
    (vii) Participate in the AMVER system while engaged on any voyage 
where the vessel is navigated in the open sea for more than 24 hours. 
Copies of the AMVER Bulletin are available at: AMVER Maritime 
Relations, USCG Battery Park Building, Room 201, New York, NY 10004-
1499. Phone 212-668-7764; Fax 212-668-7684.
    (4) * * *
    (v) Be equipped with a NAVTEX receiver conforming to the following

[[Page 46974]]

performance standards: IMO Resolution A.525(13), ``Performance 
standards for narrow-band direct printing telegraph equipment for the 
reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent 
information to ships,'' 1994, and ITU-R Recommendation M.540-2, 
``Operational and Technical Characteristics for an Automated Direct-
printing Telegraph System for Promulgation of Navigational and 
Meteorological Warnings and Urgent Information to Ships,'' including 
Annexes, 1990. IMO Resolution A.525(13) and ITU-R Recommendation M.540-
2, including Annexes, are incorporated by reference. The Director of 
the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of these 
standards can be inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 
445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or 
at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., 
Suite 700, Washington, DC. IMO Resolution A.525(13) can be purchased 
from Publications, International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom. ITU-R Recommendation M.540-
2, including Annexes, can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland;
* * * * *
    (ix) Participate in the AMVER system while engaged on any voyage 
where the vessel is navigated in the open sea for more than 24 hours. 
Copies of the AMVER Bulletin are available at: AMVER Maritime 
Relations, USCG Battery Park Building, Room 201, New York, NY 10004-
1499. Phone 212-668-7764; Fax 212-668-7684.
* * * * *
    (d) A VHF-DSC radiotelephone installation or a remote unit must be 
located at each steering station except those auxiliary steering 
stations which are used only during brief periods for docking or for 
close-in maneuvering. A single portable VHF-DSC radiotelephone set 
meets the requirements of this paragraph if adequate permanent mounting 
arrangements with suitable power provision and antenna feed are 
installed at each operator steering station. Additionally, for vessels 
of more than 100 gross tons, the radiotelephone installation must be 
located at the level of the main wheelhouse or at least one deck above 
the vessel's main deck.

0
89. Section 80.909 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.909  Radiotelephone transmitter.

* * * * *
    (b) The single sideband radiotelephone must be capable of operating 
on maritime frequencies in the band 1710 to 27500 kHz with a peak 
envelope output power of at least 120 watts for J3E emission on 2182 
kHz and J3E emission on the distress and safety frequencies listed in 
Sec.  80.369(b).
* * * * *

0
90. Section 80.933 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) introductory 
text and (c)(2)(i) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.933  General small passenger vessel exemptions.

* * * * *
    (c) U.S. passenger vessels of less than 100 gross tons operated on 
domestic or international voyages are exempt from the radiotelegraph 
requirements of Part II of Title III of the Communications Act and the 
MF radiotelephone requirements of this subpart until one year after the 
Coast Guard notifies the Commission that shore-based Sea Area A1 
coverage is established, if the following criteria are fully met:
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) A Category 1, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  80.1061;
* * * * *

0
91. Section 80.1051 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1051  Scope.

    This subpart describes the technical and performance requirements 
for Classes A, B, and S, and Categories 1, 2, and 3 EPIRB stations.
0
92. Section 80.1053 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1053  Special requirements for Class A EPIRB stations.

    Class A EPIRBs shall not be manufactured, imported, or sold in the 
United States on or after February 1, 2003. Operation of Class A EPIRB 
stations shall be prohibited after December 31, 2006. New Class A 
EPIRBs will no longer be certified by the Commission. Existing Class A 
EPIRBs must be operated as certified.

0
93. Section 80.1055 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1055  Special requirements for Class B EPIRB stations.

    Class B EPIRBs shall not be manufactured, imported, or sold in the 
United States on or after February 1, 2003. Operation of Class B EPIRB 
stations shall be prohibited after December 31, 2006. New Class B 
EPIRBs will no longer be certified by the Commission. Existing Class B 
EPIRBs must be operated as certified.


Sec.  80.1057  [Removed and reserved]

0
94. Section 80.1057 is removed and reserved.

0
95. Section 80.1059 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1059  Special requirements for Class S EPIRB stations.

    Class S EPIRBs shall not be manufactured, imported, or sold in the 
United States on or after February 1, 2003. Operation of Class S EPIRB 
stations shall be prohibited after December 31, 2006. New Class S 
EPIRBs will no longer be certified by the Commission. Existing Class S 
EPIRBs must be operated as certified.

0
96. Section 80.1061 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1061  Special requirements for 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB stations.

    (a) Notwithstanding the provisions in paragraph (b) of this 
section, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs must meet all the technical and 
performance standards contained in the Radio Technical Commission for 
Maritime Services document entitled RTCM Paper 77-02/SC110-STD, ``RTCM 
Recommended Standards for 406 MHz Satellite Emergency Position-
Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRBs),'' Version 2.1, dated June 20, 2002 
(RTCM Recommended Standards). The RTCM Recommended Standards are 
incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of the RTCM Recommended Standards can 
be inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, 
SW, Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, 
Washington, DC. The RTCM Recommended Standards can be purchased from 
the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services, 1800 Diagonal 
Road, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314. Phone 703-684-4481; Fax 703-684-
4229; email [email protected].
    (b) The 406.0-406.1 EPIRB must contain as an integral part a 
``homing'' beacon operating only on 121.500 MHz that meets all the 
requirements described in the RTCM Recommended Standards document 
described in paragraph (a) of this section. The 121.500 MHz ``homing'' 
beacon must

[[Page 46975]]

have a continuous duty cycle that may be interrupted during the 
transmission of the 406.0-406.1 MHz signal only. Additionally, at least 
30 percent of the total power emitted during any transmission cycle 
must be contained within plus or minus 30 Hz of the carrier frequency.
    (c) Prior to submitting a certification application for a 406.0-
406.1 MHz radiobeacon, the radiobeacon must be certified by a test 
facility recognized by one of the COSPAS/SARSAT Partners that the 
equipment satisfies the design characteristics associated with the 
measurement methods described in Appendix B of the RTCM Recommended 
Standards. Additionally, the radiobeacon must be certified by a test 
facility recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard to certify that the 
equipment complies with the U.S. Coast Guard environmental and 
operational requirements associated with the test procedures described 
in Appendix A of the RTCM Recommended Standards. Information regarding 
the recognized test facilities may be obtained from Commandant (G-MSE), 
U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 2nd Street SW, Washington, DC 20593-0001.
    (1) After a 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB has been certified by the 
recognized test facilities the following information must be submitted 
in duplicate to the Commandant (G-MSE), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 2nd 
Street SW, Washington, DC 20593-0001:
    (i) The name of the manufacturer or grantee and model number of the 
EPIRB;
    (ii) Copies of the certificate and test data obtained from the test 
facility recognized by a COPAS/SARSAT Partner showing that the 
radiobeacon complies with the COSPAS/SARSAT design characteristics 
associated with the measurement methods described in Appendix B of the 
RTCM Recommended Standards;
    (iii) Copies of the test report and test data obtained from the 
test facility recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard showing that the 
radiobeacon complies with the U.S. Coast Guard environmental and 
operational characteristics associated with the measurement methods 
described in Appendix A of the RTCM Recommended Standards; and
    (iv) Instruction manuals associated with the radiobeacon, 
description of the test characteristics of the radiobeacon including 
assembly drawings, electrical schematics, description of parts list, 
specifications of materials and the manufacturer's quality assurance 
program.
    (2) After reviewing the information described in paragraph (c)(1) 
of this section the U.S. Coast Guard will issue a letter stating 
whether the radiobeacon satisfies all RTCM Recommended Standards.
    (d) A certification application for a 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB 
submitted to the Commission must also contain a copy of the U.S. Coast 
Guard letter that states the radiobeacon satisfies all RTCM Recommended 
Standards, a copy of the technical test data, and the instruction 
manual(s).
    (e) An identification code, issued by the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States Program Manager 
for the 406.0-406.1 MHz COSPAS/SARSAT satellite system, must be 
programmed in each EPIRB unit to establish a unique identification for 
each EPIRB station. With each marketable EPIRB unit the manufacturer or 
grantee must include a postage pre-paid registration card printed with 
the EPIRB identification code addressed to: NOAA/NESDIS, SARSAT 
Operations Division, E/SP3, Federal Building 4, Washington, DC 20233. 
The registration card must request the owner's name, address, telephone 
number, type of ship, alternate emergency contact and include the 
following statement: ``WARNING--failure to register this EPIRB with 
NOAA before installation could result in a monetary forfeiture being 
issued to the owner.''
    (f) To enhance protection of life and property it is mandatory that 
each 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB be registered with NOAA before installation 
and that information be kept up-to-date. Therefore, in addition to the 
identification plate or label requirements contained in Sec. Sec.  
2.925, 2.926 and 2.1003 of this chapter, each 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB 
must be provided on the outside with a clearly discernible permanent 
plate or label containing the following statement: ``The owner of this 
406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB must register the NOAA identification code 
contained on this label with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration (NOAA) whose address is: NOAA, NOAA/SARSAT Operations 
Division, E/SP3, Federal Building 4, Washington, DC 20233.'' Vessel 
owners shall advise NOAA in writing upon change of vessel or EPIRB 
ownership, transfer of EPIRB to another vessel, or any other change in 
registration information. NOAA will provide registrants with proof of 
registration and change of registration postcards.
    (g) For 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs whose identification code can be 
changed after manufacture, the identification code shown on the plate 
or label must be easily replaceable using commonly available tools.

0
97. Section 80.1071 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(2), removing 
paragraph (b)(3), and adding paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1071  Exemptions.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) In exceptional circumstances, for a single voyage outside the 
sea area or sea areas for which the ship is equipped.
    (c) All fishing vessels of 300 gross tons and upward are exempt 
from subpart W requirements applicable for carriage of VHF-DSC and MF-
DSC equipment until one year after the USCG establishes GMDSS coast 
facilities for Sea Areas A1 and A2, if the following provisions are 
met:
    (1) The ship is equipped with:
    (i) A VHF radiotelephone installation meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  80.1101(c)(2).
    (ii) A MF or HF radiotelephone installation meeting the 
requirements of Sec.  80.1101(c)(3) and (4).
    (iii) A Category 1, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB meeting the requirements 
of Sec.  80.1061;
    (iv) A NAVTEX receiver meeting the requirements of Sec.  
80.1101(c)(1);
    (v) Survival craft equipment meeting the requirements of Sec.  
80.1095;
    (vi) A Search and Rescue Transponder meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  80.1101(c)(6); and
    (2) The ship remains within coverage of a VHF coast station and 
maintains a continuous watch on VHF Channel 16; or
    (3) The vessel remains within coverage of an MF coast station and 
maintains a continuous watch on 2182 kHz and VHF Channel 16.

0
98. Section 80.1073 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2), 
and (b)(6) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1073  Radio operator requirements for ship stations.

    (a) * * *
    (1) A qualified GMDSS radio operator must be designated to have 
primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress 
incidents, except if the vessel operates exclusively within twenty 
nautical miles of shore, in which case a qualified restricted radio 
operator may be so designated.
    (2) A second qualified GMDSS radio operator must be designated as 
backup for distress and safety radiocommunications, except if the 
vessel operates exclusively within twenty nautical miles of shore, in 
which case a qualified restricted GMDSS radio operator may be so 
designated.

[[Page 46976]]

    (b) * * *
    (6) Responsible for ensuring that the ship's navigation position is 
entered into all installed DSC equipment, either automatically through 
a connected or integral navigation receiver, or manually at least every 
four hours when the ship is underway.

0
99. Section 80.1074 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(2) and 
removing paragraph (b)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1074  Radio maintenance personnel for at-sea maintenance.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) GB: GMDSS Operator's/Maintainer's License.
* * * * *

0
100. Section 80.1077 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1077  Frequencies.

    The following table describes the frequencies used in the Global 
Maritime Distress and Safety System:

Alerting:
    406.0-406.1 EPIRBs.............  406.0-406.1 MHz (Earth-to-space).
                                     1544-1545 HHz (space-to-Earth).
    INMARSAT Ship Earth Stations     1626.5-1645.5 MHz (Earth-to-space).
     capable of voice and/or direct
     printing.
    VHF DSC Ch. 70.................  156.525 MHz \1\.
    MF/HF DSC \2 11\...............  2187.5 kHz \3\, 4207.5 kHz, 6312
                                      kHz, 8414.5 kHz, 12577 kHz, and
                                      16804.5 kHz.
On-scene communications:
    VHF Ch. 16.....................  156.8 MHz.
    MF Radiotelephony..............  2182 kHz.
    NBDP...........................  2174.5 kHz.
Communications involving aircraft:
    On-scene, including search and   156.8 MHz\4\, 121.5 MHz\5\, 123.1
     rescue.                          MHz 156.3 MHz, 2182 kHz, 3023 kHz,
                                      4125 kHz, and 5680 kHz\6\.
Locating signals:
    406-406.1 EPIRB Beacons........  121.5 MHz.
    9 GHz radar transponders.......  9200-9500 MHz.
Maritime safety information (MSI):
    International NAVTEX...........  518 kHz\7\
    Warnings.......................  490 kHz, 4209.5 kHz.
    NBDP...........................  4210 kHz, 6314 kHz, 8416.5 kHz,
                                      12579 kHz, 16806.5 kHz, 19680.5
                                      kHz, 22376 kHz, 26100.5 kHz.
    Satellite......................  1530-1545 MHz \10\.
General distress and safety
 communications and calling:
    Satellite......................  1530-1544 MHz (space-to-Earth) and
                                      1626.5-1645.5 MHz (Earth-to-space)
                                      \10\.
    Radiotelephony.................  2182 kHz, 4125 kHz, 6215 kHz, 8291
                                      kHz, 12290 kHz, 16420 kHz, and
                                      156.8 MHz.
    NBDP...........................  2174.5 kHz, 4177.5 kHz, 6268 kHz,
                                      8376.5 kHz, 12520 kHz, and 16695
                                      kHz.
    DSC............................  2187.5 kHz, 4207.5 kHz, 6312 kHz,
                                      8414.5 kHz, 12577 kHz, 16804.5
                                      kHz, and 156.525 MHz.
Survival craft:
    VHF radiotelephony.............  156.8 MHz and one other 156-174 MHz
                                      frequency.
    9 GHz radar transponders.......  9200-9500 MHz.
 
\1\ Frequency 156.525 MHz can be used for ship-to-ship alerting and, if
  within sea area A1, for ship-to-shore alerting.
\2\ For ships equipped with MF/HF equipment, there is a watch
  requirement on 2187.5 kHz, 8414.5 kHz, and one other frequency.
\3\ Frequency 2187.5 kHz can be used for ship-to-ship alerting and, if
  within sea areas A2, for ship-to-shore alerting.
\4\ Frequency 156.8 MHz may also be used by aircraft for safety purposes
  only.
\5\ Frequency 121.5 MHz may be used by ships for aeronautical distress
  and urgency purposes.
\6\ The priority of use for ship-aircraft communications is 4125 kHz,
  then 3023 kHz. Additionally, frequencies 123.1 MHz, 3023 kHz and 5680
  kHz can be used by land stations engaged in coordinated search and
  rescue operations.
\7\ The international NAVTEX frequency 518 kHz is the primary frequency
  for receiving maritime safety information. The other frequencies are
  used only to augment the coverage or information provided on 518 kHz.
\8\ [Reserved.]
\9\ [Reserved].
\10\ In addition to EPIRBs, 1544-1545 MHz can be used for narrowband
  distress and safety operations and 1645.5-1646.5 MHz can be used for
  relay of distress alerts between satellites. Feeder links for
  satellite communications are assigned from the fixed satellite
  service, see 47 CFR Sec.   2.106.
\11\ Routine calling is not permitted on MF and HF DSC frequencies.

* * * * *

0
101. Section 80.1083 is amended by adding paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1083  Ship radio installations.

* * * * *
    (d) A Shipborne Integrated Radiocommunication System (IRCS) may be 
utilized to integrate all GMDSS equipment into a standard operator's 
console. Such installation must be type accepted in accordance with 
Sec.  80.1103 and meet the requirements of IMO Assembly Resolution 
A.811(19), ``Performance Standards for a Shipborne Integrated 
Radiocommunication System (IRCS) When Used in the GMDSS,'' with Annex, 
adopted 23 November 1995. IMO Assembly Resolution A.811(19) with Annex 
is incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW. Suite 700, Washington, 
DC.

[[Page 46977]]

The IMO standards can be purchased from Publications, International 
Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United 
Kingdom.
* * * * *

0
102. Section 80.1085 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(6)(i), add 
paragraph (a)(6)(iii), remove paragraphs (b) and (c), redesignate 
paragraph (d) as paragraph (b), add a new paragraph (c), and revise 
newly redesignated paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1085  Ship radio equipment--General.

    (a) * * *
    (6) A satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacon 
(satellite EPIRB) which must be:
    (i) Capable of transmitting a distress alert through the polar 
orbiting satellite service operating in the 406.0-406.1 MHz band 
(406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB); and
* * * * *
    (iii) Examined and tested annually in accordance with IMO Circular 
MSC/Circ.882, Guidelines on annual testing of 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs. 
See Sec.  80.1105(k).
* * * * *
    (b) Ships must carry either the most recent edition of the IMO 
publication entitled GMDSS Master Plan of Shore-Based Facilities, the 
U.S. NIMA Publication 117, or the Admiralty List of Radio Signals 
Volume 5 Global Maritime Distress and Safety System. Notice of new 
editions will be published on the Commission's Wireless 
Telecommunications Bureau web page under ``Marine Services'' and 
information will be provided about obtaining the new document.
    (c) All GMDSS equipment capable of transmitting an automatic 
distress alert which includes position of the ship must have either an 
integral navigation receiver or capability of being connected to an 
external navigation receiver. If an external navigation receiver is 
installed, it shall be connected to all of the alerting devices 
referred to in paragraph (a) of this section. If there is no navigation 
receiver, the position must be entered manually for each alerting 
device at least once every 4 hours (at the change of the navigation 
watch).

0
103. Section 80.1087 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1087  Ship radio equipment--Sea area A1.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (2) Through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406.0-406.1 MHz 
(this requirement may be fulfilled by the 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB, 
required by Sec.  80.1085(a)(6), either by installing the 406.0-406.1 
MHz EPIRB close to, or by allowing remote activation from, the position 
from which the ship is normally navigated); or
* * * * *

0
104. Section 80.1089 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(3)(i) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  80.1089  Ship radio equipment--Sea areas A1 and A2.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406.0-406.1 MHz 
(this requirement may be fulfilled by the 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB 
required by Sec.  80.1085(a)(6), either by installing the 406.0-406.1 
MHz EPIRB close to, or by allowing remote activation from, the position 
from which the ship is normally navigated); or
* * * * *

0
105. Section 80.1091 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(4)(i), adding 
a note at the end of paragraph (a)(4)(iii), and revising paragraph 
(b)(3)(i) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1091  Ship radio equipment--Sea areas A1, A2, and A3.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (i) Through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406.0-406.1 MHz 
(this requirement may be fulfilled by the 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB 
required by Sec.  80.1085(a)(6), either by installing the 406.0-406.1 
MHz EPIRB close to, or by allowing remote activation from, the position 
from which the ship is normally navigated); or
* * * * *
    (iii) * * *

    Note to paragraph (a)(4)(iii). For ships subject to this 
subpart, sailing only in domestic waters, alternative satellite 
system fitting may be considered. However, the satellite system 
fitted must comply with all features of the INMARSAT system for its 
intended function. These are shown in IMO Assembly Resolution 
A.801(19) Appendix 13, Annex 5, ``Criteria for Use When Providing 
Inmarsat Shore-Based Facilities for Use in the GMDSS,'' adopted 23 
November 1995, and in IMO Assembly Resolution A.888(21), ``Criteria 
for the Provision of Mobile Satellite Communication Systems in the 
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS),'' with Annex, 
adopted 25 November 1999. In any case, the alternative satellite 
system must provide continuous coverage for all sea areas in which 
the ship intends to sail. IMO Assembly Resolution A.801(19) Appendix 
13, Annex 5, and IMO Assembly Resolution A.888(21) with Annex are 
incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of these standards can be inspected 
at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW, 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, 
Washington, DC. The IMO standards can be purchased from 
Publications, International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom.

    (b) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406.0-406.1 MHz 
(this requirement may be fulfilled by the 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB 
required by Sec.  80.1085(a)(6), either by installing the 406.0-406.1 
MHz EPIRB close to, or by allowing remote activation from, the position 
from which the ship is normally navigated); or
* * * * *

0
106. Section 80.1099 is amended by revising paragraphs (f)(2) and (h) 
to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1099  Ship sources of energy.

* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (2) Battery charge levels should be checked at intervals of 30 days 
or less with equipment turned ON and the battery charger turned OFF. 
Portable equipment with primary batteries such as EPIRBs and SARTs 
should be checked at the same intervals using methods recommended by 
the manufacturer. The results of battery checks should be recorded in 
the radio log.
* * * * *
    (h) If an uninterrupted input of information from the ship's 
navigational or other equipment to a radio installation required by 
this subpart (including the navigational receiver referred to in SOLAS 
Chapter IV, Regulation 18) is needed to ensure its proper performance, 
means must be provided to ensure the continuous supply of such 
information in the event of failure of the ship's main or emergency 
source of electrical power.
* * * * *

0
107. Section 80.1101 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1101  Performance standards.

    (a) The abbreviations used in this section are as follows:
    (1) International Maritime Organization (IMO).
    (2) International Telecommunication Union--Telecommunication

[[Page 46978]]

Standardization Bureau (ITU-T) (Standards formerly designated as CCITT 
are now designated as ITU-T.)
    (3) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
    (4) International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
    (5) International Telecommunication Union--Radiocommunication 
Bureau (ITU-R) (Standards formerly designated as CCIR are now 
designated as ITU-R.)
    (b) All equipment specified in this subpart must meet the general 
requirements for shipboard equipment in conformity with performance 
specifications listed in this paragraph, which are incorporated by 
reference.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.694(17), ``General Requirements for Shipborne 
Radio Equipment Forming Part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS) and for Electronic Navigational Aids,'' adopted 6 
November 1991.
    (2) ITU-T Recommendation E.161, ``Arrangement of Digits, Letters 
and Symbols on Telephones and Other Devices that Can Be Used for 
Gaining Access to a Telephone Network,'' 1993.
    (3) ITU-T Recommendation E.164.1, ``Series E: Overall Network 
Operation, Telephone Service, Service Operation and Human Factors; 
Operation, Numbering, Routing and Mobile Services--International 
Operation--Numbering Plan of the International Telephone Service: 
Criteria and Procedures for the Reservation, Assignment, and 
Reclamation of E.164 Country Codes and Associated Identification Codes 
(ICs),'' March 1998.
    (4) IEC Publication 92-101, ``Electrical Installations in Ships,'' 
Third Edition 1980 with amendments through 1984.
    (5) IEC Publication 533, ``Electromagnetic Compatibility of 
Electrical and Electronic Installations in Ships,'' First Edition 1977.
    (6) IEC Publication 60945, ``Maritime navigation and 
radiocommunication equipment and systems--General requirements--Methods 
of testing and required test results,'' Edition 4.0, with Annexes, 
August 2002.
    (7) ISO Standard 3791, ``Office Machines and Data Processing 
Equipment--Keyboard Layouts for Numeric Applications,'' First Edition 
1976(E).
    (c) The equipment specified in this subpart must also conform to 
the appropriate performance standards listed in paragraphs (c)(1) 
through (10) of this section, which are incorporated by reference, and 
must be tested in accordance with the applicable IEC testing standards 
listed in paragraph (c)(11) of this section, and are also incorporated 
by reference.
    (1) NAVTEX receivers: (i) IMO Resolution A.525(13), ``Performance 
Standards for Narrow-band Direct Printing Telegraph Equipment for the 
Reception of Navigational and Meteorological Warnings and Urgent 
Information to Ships,'' including Annex, adopted 17 November 1983.
    (ii) ITU-R Recommendation M.540-2, ``Operational and Technical 
Characteristics for an Automated Direct-printing Telegraph System for 
Promulgation of Navigational and Meteorological Warnings and Urgent 
Information to Ships,'' including Annexes, 1990.
    (2) VHF radio equipment: (i) IMO Resolution A.803(19), 
``Performance Standards for Shipborne VHF Radio Installations Capable 
of Voice Communication and Digital Selective Calling,'' with Annex, 
adopted 23 November 1995, as amended by IMO Resolution MSC.68(68), 
``Adoption of Amendments to Performance Standards for Shipborne 
Radiocommunication Equipment,'' GMDSS terrestrial communications--
1.1(c), adopted 6 June 1997.
    (ii) ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling 
System for Use in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 
2000, and ITU-R Recommendation M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for 
the Use of Digital Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annexes, 1997.
    (3) MF radio equipment: (i) IMO Resolution 804(19), ``Performance 
Standards for Shipborne MF Radio Installations Capable of Voice 
Communication and Digital Selective Calling,'' with Annex, adopted 23 
November 1995, as amended by IMO Resolution MSC.68(68), ``Adoption of 
Amendments to Performance Standards for Shipborne Radiocommunication 
Equipment,'' GMDSS terrestrial communications--1.2(c), adopted 6 June 
1997.
    (ii) ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling 
System for Use in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 
2000, and ITU-R Recommendation M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for 
the Use of Digital Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annexes, 1997.
    (4) MF/HF radio equipment: (i) IMO Resolution A.806(19), 
``Performance Standards for Shipborne MF/HF Radio Installations Capable 
of Voice Communication, Narrow-Band Direct Printing and Digital 
Selective Calling,'' with Annex, adopted 23 November 1995, as amended 
by IMO Resolution MSC.68(68), ``Adoption of Amendments to Performance 
Standards for Shipborne Radiocommunication Equipment,'' GMDSS 
terrestrial communications--1.3(c), adopted 6 June 1997.
    (ii) ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-calling 
System for Use in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 and 2, 
2000, and ITU-R Recommendation M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for 
the Use of Digital Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annexes, 1997.
    (iii) ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph 
Equipment Employing Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annex, 1995, ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital 
Selective-calling System for Use in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with 
Annexes 1 and 2, 2000. Equipment may conform to ITU-R Recommendation 
M.476-5, ``Direct-Printing Telegraph Equipment in the Maritime Mobile 
Service,'' with Annex, 1995, in lieu of ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3 
with Annex, 1995, where such equipment was installed on ships prior to 
February 1, 1993.
    (iv) IMO Resolution A.700(17), ``Performance Standards for Narrow-
band Direct-printing Telegraph Equipment for the Reception of 
Navigational and Meteorological Warnings and Urgent Information to 
Ships (MSI) by HF,'' adopted 6 November 1991.
    (5) 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs: (i) IMO Resolution A.810(19), 
``Performance Standards for Float-free Satellite Emergency Position-
indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) Operating on 406 MHz,'' with Annex, 
adopted 23 November 1995, and IMO Resolution A.812(19), ``Performance 
Standards for Float-free Satellite Emergency Position-indicating Radio 
Beacons Operating Through the Geostationary INMARSAT Satellite System 
on 1.6 GHz,'' with Annex, adopted 23 November 1995.
    (ii) IMO Resolution A.662(16), ``Performance Standards for Float-
free Release and Activation Arrangements for Emergency Radio 
Equipment,'' adopted 19 October 1989.
    (iii) ITU-R Recommendation M.633-2, ``Transmission Characteristics 
of a Satellite Emergency Position-indicating Radiobeacon (Satellite 
EPIRB) System Operating Through a Low Polar-orbiting Satellite System 
in the 406 MHz Band,'' 2000.
    (iv) The 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs must also comply with Sec.  
80.1061.
    (6) 9 GHz radar transponders: (i) IMO Resolution A.802(19), 
``Performance

[[Page 46979]]

Standards for Survival Craft Radar Transponders for Use in Search and 
Rescue Operations,'' with Annex, adopted 23 November 1995.
    (ii) ITU-R Recommendation M.628-3, ``Technical Characteristics for 
Search and Rescue Radar Transponders,'' with Annexes, 1994.
    (7) Two-Way VHF radiotelephone: (i) IMO Resolution A.809(19), 
``Performance Standards for Survival Craft Two-Way VHF Radiotelephone 
Apparatus,'' including Annexes 1 and 2, adopted 23 November 1995.
    (ii) IMO Resolution MSC.80(70), ``Adoption of New Performance 
Standards for Radiocommunication Equipment,'' with Annexes, adopted 8 
December 1998.
    (8) INMARSAT Ship Earth Station Capable of Two-Way Communications: 
IMO Resolution A.808(19), ``Performance Standards for Ship Earth 
Stations Capable of Two-Way Communications,'' with Annex, adopted 23 
November 1995.
    (9) INMARSAT-C SES: IMO Resolution A.807(19), ``Performance 
Standards for INMARSAT-C Ship Earth Stations Capable of Transmitting 
and Receiving Direct-Printing Communications,'' with Annex, adopted 23 
November 1995, as amended by IMO Resolution MSC.68(68), ``Adoption of 
Amendments to Performance Standards for Shipborne Radiocommunication 
Equipment,'' Satellite communications--2.3(c), adopted 6 June 1997.
    (10) INMARSAT EGC: IMO Resolution A.664(16), ``Performance 
Standards for Enhanced Group Call Equipment,'' adopted 19 October 1989.
    (11) Standards for testing GMDSS equipment:
    (i) IEC 1097-1 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety System 
(GMDSS)--Part 1: Radar transponder--Marine Search and Rescue (SART)--
Operational and Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing and 
Required Test Results,'' with Annexes, July 1992.
    (ii) IEC 1097-3 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 3: Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Equipment--
Operational and Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing and 
Required Testing Results,'' with Annexes, June 1994.
    (iii) IEC 1097-4 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 4: INMARSAT-C Ship Earth Station and INMARSAT 
Enhanced Group Call (EGC) Equipment--Operational and Performance 
Requirements, Methods of Testing and Required Test Results,'' with 
Annexes, November 1994.
    (iv) IEC 1097-6 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 6: Narrowband direct-printing telegraph equipment 
for the reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and 
urgent information to ships (NAVTEX)--Operational and Performance 
Requirements, Methods of Testing and Required Test Results,'' February 
1995.
    (v) IEC 1097-7 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety System 
(GMDSS)--Part 7: Shipborne VHF radiotelephone transmitter and 
receiver--Operational and Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing 
and Required Test Results,'' with Annexes, October 1996.
    (vi) IEC 61097-8 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 8: Shipborne watchkeeping receivers for the 
reception of digital selective calling (DSC) in the maritime MF, MF/HF, 
and VHF bands--Operational and Performance Requirements, Methods of 
Testing and Required Test Results,'' with Annexes, September 1998.
    (vii) IEC 61097-9 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 9: Shipborne Transmitters and Receivers for Use in 
the MF and HF Bands Suitable for Telephony, Digital Selective Calling 
(DSC) and Narrow Band Direct Printing (NBDP)--Operational and 
Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing and Required Test 
Results,'' with Annexes, December 1997.
    (viii) IEC 61097-10 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 10: INMARSAT-B Ship Earth Station Equipment--
Operational and Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing and 
Required Test Results,'' with Annexes, June 1999.
    (ix) IEC 1097-12 Ed 1.0, ``Global Maritime Distress and Safety 
System (GMDSS)--Part 12: Survival Craft Portable Two-Way VHF 
Radiotelephone Apparatus--Operational and Performance Requirements, 
Methods of Testing and Required Test Results,'' with Annexes, November 
1996.
    (d) The documents referenced in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this 
section have been approved for incorporation by reference by the 
Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 
1 CFR Part 51. Identification data and place to purchase for each of 
the referenced documents are listed as follows:
    (1) Copies of IMO Resolutions, the 1974 SOLAS Convention, and the 
1983 and 1988 amendments to the 1974 SOLAS Convention can be purchased 
from Publications, International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom.
    (i) IMO Resolution A.525(13) is contained in the Resolutions and 
Other Decisions of the Assembly of the International Maritime 
Organization, 13th Session, 1983, (IMO, London, 1984), Sales Number 073 
84.07.E.
    (ii) IMO Resolutions A.802(19), A.803(19), A.804(19), A.806(19), 
A.807(19), A.808(19), A.810(19), A.811(19) and A.812(19) are contained 
in the Resolutions and Other Decisions of the Assembly of the 
International Maritime Organization, 19th Session, 1995, (IMO, London, 
1988), Sales Number IMO-194E ISBN No. 91-801-1416-6.
    (iii) IMO Resolutions A.662(16) and A.664(16) are contained in the 
Resolutions and Other Decisions of the Assembly of the International 
Maritime Organization, 16th Session, 1989, (IMO, London, 1990), Sales 
Number 136 90.04.E
    (iv) IMO Resolutions A.694(17), and A.700(17) are contained in the 
Resolutions and Other Decisions of the Assembly of the International 
Maritime Organization, 17th Session, 1991, (IMO, London, 1991), Sales 
Number IMO-142E ISBN No. 91-801-1281-3.
    (2) ITU-R Recommendations, ITU Radio Regulations, and ITU-T 
publications can be purchased from the International Telecommunication 
Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
    (i) All ITU-R Recommendations referenced in this section are 
contained in Recommendations of the ITU-R, Volume M series parts 3, 4, 
and 5.
    (ii) ITU-T Recommendation E.161 is contained in Facicle II.2 Volume 
II--Telephone Network and ISDN Operation, Numbering, Routing and Mobile 
Service, (ITU, Geneva, 1989, revised in 1993 and 1995).
    (iii) ITU-T Recommendation E.164.1 is contained in Facicle VI.1 
Volume II Numbering Plan for the International Telephone Service, (ITU, 
Geneva, 1989, revised in 1997).
    (3) IEC publications can be purchased from the International 
Electrotechnical Commission, 3 Rue de Varembe, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland, or from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 
25 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036, telephone (212) 642-4900.
    (4) ISO Standards can be purchased from the International 
Organization for Standardization, 1 Rue de Varembe, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland, or from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 
25 West 43rd Street,

[[Page 46980]]

New York, NY 10036, telephone (212) 642-4900.
    (5) Copies of the publications listed in this section that are 
incorporated by reference can be inspected at the Federal 
Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., (room CY-A257), 
Washington, DC, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North 
Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC.

0
108. Section 80.1103 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) and (e) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.1103  Equipment authorization.

    (a) All equipment specified in Sec.  80.1101 must be certificated 
in accordance with 47 CFR part 2 specifically for GMDSS use, except for 
equipment used in the INMARSAT space segment which must be type-
approved by INMARSAT and verified in accordance with 47 CFR part 2 
specifically for GMDSS use. The technical parameters of the equipment 
must conform to the performance standards as specified in Sec.  
80.1101. For emergency position-indicating radiobeacons operating on 
406.0-406.1 MHz (406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs) that were authorized prior to 
April 15, 1992, and meet the requirements of Sec.  80.1101, the 
manufacturer may attest by letter that the equipment (indicate FCC 
ID) meets the requirements of Sec.  80.1101 and request that 
it be denoted as approved for GMDSS use.
* * * * *
    (e) In addition to the requirements in part 2 of this chapter, 
equipment specified in Sec.  80.1101 shall be labeled as follows: 
``This device complies with the GMDSS provisions of part 80 of the FCC 
rules.'' Such a label is not required for emergency position-indicating 
radiobeacons operating on 406.0-406.1 MHz (406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs) that 
were authorized prior to April 15, 1992.

0
109. Section 80.1105 is amended by adding a new paragraph (k) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  80.1105  Maintenance requirements.

* * * * *
    (k) Satellite EPIRBs shall be tested at intervals not exceeding 12 
months for all aspects of operational efficiency with particular 
emphasis on frequency stability, signal strength and coding. The test 
may be conducted on board the ship or at an approved testing or 
servicing station.

0
110. Section 80.1111 is amended by revising paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1111  Distress alerting.

* * * * *
    (d) All stations which receive a distress alert transmitted by 
digital selective calling must immediately cease any transmission 
capable of interfering with distress traffic and must continue watch on 
the digital selective call distress calling channel until the call has 
been acknowledged to determine if a coast station acknowledges the call 
using digital selective calling. Additionally, the station receiving 
the distress alert must set watch on the associated distress traffic 
frequency for five minutes to determine if distress traffic takes 
place. The ship can acknowledge the call using voice or narrowband 
direct printing as appropriate on this channel to the ship or to the 
rescue authority.

0
111. Section 80.1113 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.1113  Transmission of a distress alert.

* * * * *
    (b) The format of distress calls and distress messages must be in 
accordance with ITU-R Recommendation M.493-10, ``Digital Selective-
calling system for use in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annexes 1 
and 2, 2000, as specified in Sec.  80.1101. ITU-R Recommendation M.493-
10 with Annexes 1 and 2 is incorporated by reference. The Director of 
the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this 
standard can be inspected at the Federal Communications Commission, 445 
12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at 
the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., 
Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased 
from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des 
Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
* * * * *
    (d) Ship-to-ship distress alerts are used to alert other ships in 
the vicinity of the ship in distress and are based on the use of 
digital selective calling in the VHF and MF bands. The HF bands should 
not be used to notify ships in the vicinity unless no response is 
received within five minutes on VHF or MF.
* * * * *

0
112. Add Sec.  80.1114 to subpart W to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1114  False distress alerts.

    The provisions of Sec. Sec.  80.334 and 80.335 apply to false 
distress alerts.

0
113. Section 80.1117 is amended by revising paragraph (a) as follows:


Sec.  80.1117  Procedure for receipt and acknowledgement of distress 
alerts.

    (a) Normally, distress calls received using digital selective 
calling are only acknowledged using a DSC acknowledgement by a coast 
station. Ships should delay any acknowledgement in order to give 
sufficient time for a coast station to acknowledge the call. In cases 
where no acknowledgement has been heard and no distress traffic has 
been heard, the ship should transmit a distress alert relay to the 
coast station. Upon advice from the Rescue Coordination Center, the 
ship may transmit a DSC acknowledgement call to stop it from being 
repeated. Acknowledgement by digital selective calling of receipt of a 
distress alert in the terrestrial services must comply with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.541-8, ``Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital 
Selective-Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with 
Annexes, 1997. ITU-R Recommendation M.541-8 with Annexes is 
incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, 
DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
114. Section 80.1121 is amended by revising paragraphs (b), (c), and 
(d) to read as follows:


Sec.  80.1121  Receipt and acknowledgement of distress alerts by ship 
stations and ship earth stations.

* * * * *
    (b) For VHF and MF, ships in receipt of a distress alert shall not 
transmit a distress alert relay, but should listen on the distress 
traffic channel for 5 minutes and, if appropriate, acknowledge the 
alert by radiotelephony to the ship in distress and inform the coast 
station and/or Rescue Coordination Center. Distress alert relays to 
``all ships'' on these bands may only be sent by a ship who has 
knowledge that another ship in distress is not itself able to transmit 
the distress alert, and the Master of the ship considers that further 
help is necessary.
    (c) For HF, ships in receipt of a distress alert shall listen on 
the distress traffic channel for 5 minutes. If no distress 
communications are heard and

[[Page 46981]]

if the call is not acknowledged by a coast station, the ship shall 
transmit a distress relay on HF to the coast radio station and inform 
the Rescue Coordination Center. Distress alert relays to ``all Ships'' 
on HF may only be sent by a ship who has knowledge that another ship in 
distress is not itself able to transmit the distress alert, and the 
Master of the ship considers that further help is necessary.
    (d) In cases where distress alert continues to be received from the 
same source, the ship may, after consultation with the Rescue 
Coordination Center, transmit a DSC acknowledgment to terminate the 
call.
* * * * *

0
115. Section 80.1123 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) and (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.1123  Watch requirements for ship stations.

* * * * *
    (c) Until February 1, 2005, every ship while at sea must maintain, 
when practicable, a continuous listening watch on VHF Channel 16. This 
watch must be kept at the position from which the ship is normally 
navigated or at a position which is continuously manned.
    (d) Every ship required to carry a radiotelephone watch receiver 
must maintain, while at sea, a continuous watch on the radiotelephone 
distress frequency 2182 kHz. This watch must be kept at the position 
from which the ship is normally navigated or at a position which is 
continually manned.
* * * * *

0
116. Section 80.1125 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1125  Search and rescue coordinating communications.

* * * * *
    (b) Error correction techniques, in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-printing Telegraph Equipment Employing 
Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 
1995, as specified in Sec.  80.1101, must be used for distress traffic 
by direct-printing telegraphy. All messages must be preceded by at 
least one carriage return, a line feed signal, a letter shift signal 
and the distress signal MAYDAY. ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3 with Annex 
is incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, 
DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
117. Section 80.1127 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (c) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  80.1127  On-scene communications.

* * * * *
    (b) Control of on-scene communications is the responsibility of the 
unit coordinating search and rescue operations. Simplex communications 
must be used so that all on-scene mobile stations may share relevant 
information concerning the distress incident. If direct-printing 
telegraphy is used, it must be in the forward error-correcting mode in 
accordance with ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, with Annex, as specified 
in Sec.  80.1101.
    (c) The preferred frequencies in radiotelephony for on-scene 
communications are 156.8 MHz and 2182 kHz. The frequency 2174.5 kHz may 
also be used for ship-to-ship on-scene communications using narrow-band 
direct-printing telegraphy in the forward error correcting mode in 
accordance with ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-printing 
Telegraph Equipment Employing Automatic Identification in the Maritime 
Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 1995, as specified in Sec.  80.1101. ITU-
R Recommendation M.625-3 with Annex is incorporated by reference. The 
Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by 
reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies 
of this standard can be inspected at the Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information 
Center) or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be 
purchased from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place 
des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
118. Section 80.1129 is amended by revising paragraph (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1129  Locating and homing signals.

* * * * *
    (d) The 9 GHz locating signals must be in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.628-3, ``Technical Characteristics for Search and 
Rescue Radar Transponders,'' with Annexes, 1994, as specified in Sec.  
80.1101. ITU-R Recommendation M.628-3 with Annexes is incorporated by 
reference. The Director of the Federal Register approves this 
incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR 
Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at the Federal 
Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 
(Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC. The 
ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.

0
119. Section 80.1131 is amended by revising paragraph (j) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1131  Transmissions of urgency communications.

* * * * *
    (j) Error correction techniques, in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-printing Telegraph Equipment Employing 
Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 
1995, as specified in Sec.  80.1101, must be used for urgency messages 
by direct-printing telegraphy. All messages must be preceded by at 
least one carriage return, a line feed signal, a letter shift signal 
and the urgency signal PAN PAN. ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3 with Annex 
is incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, 
DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
120. Section 80.1133 is amended by revising paragraph (g) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1133  Transmission of safety communications.

* * * * *
    (g) Error correction techniques, in accordance with ITU-R 
Recommendation M.625-3, ``Direct-printing Telegraph Equipment Employing 
Automatic Identification in the Maritime Mobile Service,'' with Annex, 
1995, as specified in Sec.  80.1101, must be used for safety messages 
by

[[Page 46982]]

direct-printing telegraphy. All messages must be preceded by at least 
one carriage return, a line feed signal, a letter shift signal and the 
safety signal SECURITE. ITU-R Recommendation M.625-3 with Annex is 
incorporated by reference. The Director of the Federal Register 
approves this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR Part 51. Copies of this standard can be inspected at 
the Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., 
Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., Suite 700, Washington, 
DC. The ITU-R Recommendation can be purchased from the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU), Place des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
* * * * *

0
121. Section 80.1135 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  80.1135  Transmission of maritime safety information.

* * * * *
    (b) The mode and format of the transmissions mentioned in this 
section is in accordance with the ITU-R Recommendation M.540 as 
specified in Sec.  80.1101.
* * * * *

[FR Doc. 03-19687 Filed 8-6-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P