Subelement A: Rules & Regulations— Topic 3: Watchkeeping
Question 1-3A4
Element 1 (MROP)When a watch is required on 2182 kHz, at how many minutes past the hour must a 3 minute silent period be observed?
Explanation
The frequency 2182 kHz is the international voice distress and calling frequency for maritime radio. To ensure that distress calls can be heard without interference, international regulations, such as those found in ITU Radio Regulations and FCC Part 80, mandate specific listening periods and silent periods.
A 3-minute silent period is observed twice an hour on 2182 kHz. These periods are from the top of the hour (H+00 to H+03) and from H+30 to H+33. During these times, all non-distress transmissions must cease, and stations must maintain a watchful ear, listening exclusively for weak or distant distress calls. This standardization maximizes the chance of any station hearing a distress alert globally. Therefore, the silent periods begin at 00 and 30 minutes past the hour. The other options do not correspond to these internationally standardized distress watch periods.
Related Questions
1-3A1 Radio watches for compulsory radiotelephone stations will include the following:1-3A2 All compulsory equipped cargo ships (except those operating under GMDSS regulations or in a VTS) while being navigated outside of a harbor or port, shall keep a continuous radiotelephone watch on:1-3A5 Which is true concerning a required watch on VHF Ch-16?1-3A6 What are the mandatory DSC watchkeeping bands/channels?1-4A1 Who is required to make entries in a required service or maintenance log?