Safety, Fire & Survival · SAR — On-Scene Coordinator
When several vessels respond to a distress, the role of the On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) is to:
- ATake command of the distressed vessel
- BCoordinate the search-and-rescue actions of the assets on scene and communicate with the rescue coordination center✓ Correct
- CReplace the rescue coordination center entirely
- DDecide salvage payments
Explanation
The OSC — often the first capable vessel or a designated SAR unit — coordinates the on-scene search pattern, assigns areas, manages communications among responders, and reports to the RCC. Clear OSC coordination prevents duplicated effort and gaps during multi-asset rescues.
Authority: IAMSAR Manual; SOLAS V
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