FOM-3.18	Fleet Operations Manual Navigation VHF Communication Techniques	Doc No.: FOM-3.18 Revision: 01 Date: 15 Oct 2024 Issued by: DPA Approved by: MD

1. Listening

Listen before commencing to transmit to make certain that the channel is not already in use. This will avoid unnecessary and irritating interference.

2. Discipline

VHF equipment should be used correctly and in accordance with the Radio Regulations. Avoid the following:

• Calling on channel 16 for purposes other than distress, and very brief safety communications, when another calling channel is available
• Non-essential transmissions, e.g., needless and superfluous signals and correspondence
• Communications not related to safety and navigation on port operation channels; communication on channel 70 other than for Digital Selective Calling
• Occupation of one particular channel under poor conditions
• Transmitting without correct identification
• Use of offensive language

3. Communications with Coast Stations

On VHF channels allocated to port operations service, the only messages permitted are restricted to those relating to:

• the operational handling,
• the movement and safety of ships, and
• in emergency, to the safety of persons.

The use of these channels for ship-to-ship communications may cause serious interference to communications related to the movement and safety of shipping in port areas.

Instructions given on communication matters by shore stations should be obeyed.

Communications should be carried out on the channel indicated by the shore station. When a change of channel is requested, this should be acknowledged by the ship.

4. Communications with Other Ships

• VHF Channel 13 is designated by the Radio Regulations for bridge-to-bridge communications.
• The ship called may indicate another working channel on which further transmissions should take place. The calling ship should acknowledge acceptance before changing channels.
• The listening procedure outlined above should be followed before communications are commenced on the chosen channel.

5. Addressing

The words “I” and “You” should be used prudently. Indicate to whom they refer.

Example of good practice:

• “Seaship, this is Port Radar, Port Radar, do you have a pilot?”
• “Port Radar, this is Seaship, I do have a pilot.”