Effective communication is one of the most critical elements in managing emergencies at sea. During any emergency, crew members must be able to receive instructions quickly and coordinate their actions efficiently. For this reason, SOLAS specifies several requirements regarding emergency communication systems.

Ships must be equipped with two-way communication systems connecting emergency control stations, muster stations, embarkation stations, and other strategic locations throughout the vessel. These communication systems enable emergency teams to coordinate rescue operations and share important information during critical situations.

Every ship must also have a General Emergency Alarm System capable of summoning both passengers and crew members to their designated muster stations. The alarm serves as the signal for initiating the emergency procedures outlined in the ship’s muster list. In addition to the alarm system, ships should be fitted with a public address system or another suitable communication method to broadcast instructions clearly to everyone onboard.

On ships equipped with a Marine Evacuation System (MES), reliable communication must be maintained between the embarkation station and the evacuation platform or survival craft to ensure a safe and organized evacuation process.

The General Emergency Alarm Signal consists of seven or more short blasts followed by one prolonged blast sounded on the ship’s whistle or siren. This signal is also repeated using an electrically operated bell, klaxon, or an equivalent warning device. The alarm system must be capable of operating using both the ship’s main electrical supply and its emergency power source. It should be controllable from the navigation bridge and, except for the ship’s whistle, from other strategic locations onboard.