3 - Broadcast methods
3.1 Two principal methods are used for broadcasting maritime safety information in accordance with the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, in the areas covered by these methods, as follows:
- NAVTEX: broadcasts to coastal waters; and
- SafetyNET: broadcasts which cover all the waters of the globe except for Sea Area A4, as defined by resolution A.801(19), annex 3, as amended.
3.2 Information should be provided for unique and precisely defined sea areas, each being served only by the most appropriate of the above methods. Although there will be some duplication to allow a ship to change from one method to another, the majority of warnings will be broadcast either on NAVTEX or SafetyNET.
3.3 NAVTEX broadcasts should be made in accordance with the standards and procedures set out in the NAVTEX Manual.
3.4 SafetyNET broadcasts should be made in accordance with the standards and procedures set out in the International SafetyNET Manual.
3.5 HF NBDP may be used to promulgate maritime safety information in areas outside Inmarsat coverage (SOLAS regulation IV/7.1.5).
3.6 In addition, Administrations may also provide maritime safety information by other means.
3.7 In the event of failure of normal transmission facilities, an alternative means of transmission should be utilized. A NAVAREA warning and a coastal warning, if possible, should be issued detailing the failure, its duration and, if known, the alternative route for the dissemination of MSI.