
This manual standardizes navigation warnings and weather alerts in English for GMDSS compliance. Essential for clear, precise maritime safety communications at sea.
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The Manual on Maritime Safety Information (MSI) is a critical resource for maritime professionals tasked with drafting navigation warnings or issuing meteorological forecasts and alerts under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Developed through collaboration between the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this manual ensures that Maritime Safety Information is disseminated in a standardized, clear, and effective manner. It aligns with IMO Resolution A.705(17), as amended, to enhance safety at sea by providing timely, accurate, and unambiguous information to navigators worldwide.
Effective communication is the cornerstone of maritime safety. This manual provides optimized English formulations for all types of navigation warnings and meteorological forecasts or advisories broadcast via radio. Drawing from the IMO’s Standard Marine Communication Phrases (Resolution A.918(22)), it establishes best practices for delivering critical information in a consistent and concise format. While it does not cover every possible scenario, the principles outlined are broadly applicable, ensuring that maritime safety messages are understood universally. Under Resolution A.706(17), as amended (MSC.1/Circ.1288), all NAVAREA, sub-area, and coastal warnings must be broadcast exclusively in English via international NAVTEX and SafetyNET systems, reinforcing the need for standardized communication.
This manual is tailored for professionals in the merchant marine sector, including maritime authorities, hydrographic offices, meteorological services, and radio operators. It serves as a practical guide for those responsible for drafting and disseminating Maritime Safety Information, ensuring compliance with international regulations and enhancing operational efficiency. By providing clear guidelines for formatting and phrasing, it minimizes the risk of miscommunication, which is vital in high-stakes maritime environments where clarity can mean the difference between safety and disaster.
Available in a printed English edition, this manual is designed for easy reference in both office and onboard settings. Its structured approach allows users to quickly locate relevant information, whether for routine operations or emergency situations. The 2015 edition remains a trusted resource, offering a balance of technical precision and practical usability. While a digital version is also available, the printed format ensures reliability in environments where digital access may be limited, making it an indispensable tool for maritime safety professionals worldwide.
Your Go-To Guide for Standardized Maritime Safety Communication
The Manual on Maritime Safety Information (MSI) is the definitive resource for professionals responsible for drafting and broadcasting navigation warnings, meteorological forecasts, and safety alerts under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Developed in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this manual ensures that Maritime Safety Information is communicated with precision, clarity, and consistency. It adheres to IMO Resolution A.705(17), as amended, providing a framework for disseminating critical safety information to vessels worldwide.
Optimized for Global Maritime Operations
This manual offers standardized English formulations for all types of navigation warnings and meteorological advisories, ensuring that messages are clear, concise, and free from ambiguity. Based on the IMO’s Standard Marine Communication Phrases (Resolution A.918(22)), it provides practical guidance for radio broadcasts, helping maritime professionals deliver timely and relevant information to navigators. Under Resolution A.706(17), as amended (MSC.1/Circ.1288), all NAVAREA, sub-area, and coastal warnings must be transmitted exclusively in English via international NAVTEX and SafetyNET systems, making this manual an essential tool for compliance and operational efficiency.
Trusted Resource for Maritime Safety Experts
Weighing 1.8 kg and spanning 84 pages, this printed edition is designed for durability and ease of use in both office and onboard environments. Published in February 2025, it reflects the latest standards and best practices in maritime safety communication. While a digital version is available, the printed format ensures reliability in all conditions, making it a must-have for maritime authorities, hydrographic offices, meteorological services, and radio operators. Whether for routine operations or emergency situations, this manual provides the tools needed to enhance safety and efficiency at sea.
The Manual on Maritime Safety Information (MSI) is a printed publication in English, featuring 84 pages of standardized guidelines for drafting navigation warnings and meteorological forecasts. Weighing 1.8 kg, it is published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and adheres to the latest international maritime safety regulations. The 2015 edition is designed for use in both office and onboard settings, ensuring accessibility and reliability in all maritime operations.
With decades of expertise in maritime safety and regulatory standards, the publisher of this manual is a leading authority in the global maritime industry. Recognized for developing internationally accepted guidelines, their publications are trusted by maritime professionals worldwide to enhance safety, compliance, and operational efficiency at sea.
The manual provides practical guidance for drafting navigational warnings and issuing meteorological forecasts and warnings as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). It ensures timely, relevant, and unambiguous safety information is communicated to navigators.
Yes, the manual recommends optimal English phrasing for all types of navigational warnings and meteorological forecasts, ensuring consistency, clarity, and conciseness. It follows the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases.
While it does not cover every possible event, the principles outlined apply broadly to most maritime safety information situations.
According to the manual, all NAVAREA, sub-area, and coastal warnings must be broadcast exclusively in English via international NAVTEX and SafetyNET.
The digital version is accessible on any internet-connected device but is locked to the IMO e-reader platform.
Each purchase of the digital version includes one Witherby Connect license.
The paper version weighs 1.8 kg.
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