VHF & UHF PORTABLE RADIOS
VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) portable radios are handheld communication devices used on board ships for safety, distress, and operational communication. Under SOLAS Chapter IV (GMDSS) and IMO requirements, approved VHF portable radios are mandatory for survival craft and on-board emergency use, while UHF radios are commonly used for internal and deck communications.
Are portable VHF radios mandatory under SOLAS?
Yes. SOLAS requires ships to carry approved VHF portable radios for survival craft as part of GMDSS requirements.
How many portable VHF radios are required on board?
SOLAS requires:
At least two VHF portable radios for cargo ships
At least three VHF portable radios for passenger ships
What is the purpose of portable VHF radios?
They are used for distress communication, coordination during emergencies, and survival craft communication.
Are UHF portable radios covered under SOLAS?
UHF radios are not specifically mandated by SOLAS, but are widely used for onboard operational communication, such as mooring and cargo handling.
What channels must portable VHF radios support?
They must include:
Channel 16 (distress, safety, calling)
Designated survival craft channels, as per IMO standards
Are portable radios required to be waterproof?
Yes. SOLAS-approved portable VHF radios must be waterproof, buoyant, and capable of operation in harsh marine conditions.
How long should the battery last?
IMO requires batteries to provide:
At least 8 hours of normal operation
At least 1 hour of distress communication
How often should portable radios be tested?
Portable radios should be:
Tested regularly onboard
Checked during PSC and Class inspections
Included in weekly/monthly safety checks
Can portable VHF radios be used as main communication equipment?
No. They are intended for emergency and supplementary use, not as a replacement for fixed GMDSS equipment.
What happens if a portable radio is defective?
The defect must be recorded, and the radio must be repaired or replaced immediately, as it is a critical safety item.
Conclusion
VHF and UHF portable radios are essential communication tools supporting onboard safety and emergency response. Compliance with SOLAS and IMO requirements, proper maintenance, and regular testing ensure reliable communication during critical operations at sea.