IMRF publishes new Search and Rescue Surface Craft Operator Training Guidance to enhance global SAR capability

The IMRF has issued a pilot Search and Rescue Surface Craft Operator Training Guidance, designed to support maritime SAR organisations, training institutes, and educators in developing and delivering high-quality training programmes for Rescue Craft Operators (RCOs).

The pilot guidance kicks off a 12-month testing period and will be reintroduced in autumn 2026 after feedback is gathered. All members and SAR organisations are encouraged to review the document and send their comments to [email protected]. Additionally, during the IMRF’s Annual Meeting in November, the guidance will be discussed in a workshop led by Dave Whiddon, Senior International Programme Manager at RNLI, and Roly McKie, the IMRF’s IMO Representative and SAR Advisor.

This complements IMRF’s Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual, with the idea that the current Manual is the principal training aid, and the Search and Rescue Surface Craft Operator Training Guidance is the training course. IMRF’s longer-term aim with the Guidance is to develop it into a model course.

The guidance aims to improve the effectiveness, safety, and competency of SAR craft operators worldwide. This initiative has been developed to support both the introduction of new training courses and the enhancement of existing materials, with a focus on developing the core competencies required for RCOs. It aligns with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Code and references the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual, particularly Volumes II and III.

Caroline Jupe, CEO at the IMRF, said: “Recognising the diversity of maritime education systems and national SAR frameworks, we designed the guidance with flexibility in mind so that instructors can adapt it to their trainees’ real-world needs. It does not prescribe a rigid curriculum but instead offers a comprehensive framework.”

Emphasis is placed on instructor expertise, practical application, and tailoring course content to local conditions.

The course aims to equip trainees with:

A comprehensive understanding of the SAR system, including coordination and distress communications.

Proficiency in implementing SAR procedures from IAMSAR Volume III.

The ability to respond to onboard emergencies and assist vessels and individuals in distress.

Competence in effectively using action cards from the IAMSAR Manual.

The guidance is divided into two main parts: the first covers universal RCO duties, principles, and practices; the second elaborates on additional knowledge areas, including aeronautical considerations and broader SAR responsibilities relevant to the RCO role.

Implementing the guidance requires properly qualified instructors and assessors, as well as sufficient classroom and practical training facilities, including potential access to simulators and computer-based training modules. The IMRF emphasises the importance of small group sizes for practical sessions, ideally no more than four trainees per instructor, to ensure effective hands-on learning.

Training institutions are encouraged to issue course completion certificates that specify the training level, whether basic, intermediate, or advanced, as appropriate. National authorities may also establish entry standards and additional training requirements in line with their regulations.

“We want to encourage feedback from users as this is essential in maintaining and enhancing the relevance of the guidance. Instructors and training providers are encouraged to submit suggestions and insights to ensure the material continues to meet the changing needs of the maritime SAR community”, Caroline added.

With this new guidance, the IMRF continues its mission to enhance maritime search and rescue operations worldwide by ensuring that Rescue Craft Operators are trained to the highest standards of safety, effectiveness, and professionalism.

The guidance can be downloaded free-of-charge here. Please email your feedback to [email protected].

Latest

IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

From the launch of e-learning modules on Motivation, Mentoring, Culture and On-Scene Coordination, the IMRF Maritime SAR Academy continues to build momentum as a global platform for maritime SAR learning and professional development.
IMRF leads industry-wide forum on tackling battery fires in search and rescue

Alongside the University of Queensland, the IMRF led a day of discussions that explored the risks and responses to the growing issue of battery fires on board car carriers, ferries, fishing vessels, tugs and leisure craft and small work boats.
The Maritime SAR Academy: A Global e-Learning Platform

Thanks to a major three-year grant from The TK Foundation, the IMRF has launched the Maritime SAR Academy for maritime SAR personnel and commercial seafarers. It is a modern, accessible e-learning programme designed to strengthen lifesaving capability worldwide.
Our Members

IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

From the launch of e-learning modules on Motivation, Mentoring, Culture and On-Scene Coordination, the IMRF Maritime SAR Academy continues to build momentum as a global platform for maritime SAR learning and professional development.
IMRF leads industry-wide forum on tackling battery fires in search and rescue

Alongside the University of Queensland, the IMRF led a day of discussions that explored the risks and responses to the growing issue of battery fires on board car carriers, ferries, fishing vessels, tugs and leisure craft and small work boats.
IMRF Global Maritime SAR System Review continues with regional workshop in Ghana

Representatives from nine African countries gathered in Accra, Ghana, for the third regional workshop of the Global Maritime SAR System Review, identifying key challenges and opportunities for strengthening maritime search and rescue across the continent.
New IMO MASS Code Raises Important SAR Considerations

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted the first non-mandatory Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), marking a significant milestone in the future regulation of autonomous and remotely operated shipping.
IMRF supports regional Mass Rescue Operations Workshop in Morocco

The IMRF, alongside the IMO, Morocco’s Secretariat of State in charge of Marine Fisheries and HM Coastguard UK, brought together maritime SAR professionals from multiple countries to share operational experience, strengthen cooperation and enhance Mass Rescue Operations capability.
The IMRF joins WHO global drowning prevention alliance

By joining the Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention, the IMRF will help shape international policy, improve rescue capability and support evidence-based interventions aimed at saving lives.
The International Day for Women in Maritime: Spotlight on Dr Evette Johnson Smith

On the International Day for Women in Maritime, the IMRF recognises the contribution of women across the maritime sector and continues its work to advance inclusion through the #WomenInSAR initiative. This feature spotlights Dr Evette Johnson Smith, President of the Women in Maritime Association Caribbean and a leading voice in maritime education and gender inclusion.
Making safety work at sea

A new study led by Cranfield University in collaboration with the IMRF, shows why safety practices in maritime search and rescue do not always transfer easily between organisations and countries - adapting them to local contexts can improve outcomes worldwide.
IMRF attends North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum meeting in Iceland

The IMRF attended the North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum in Iceland, contributing to discussions on SAR, maritime safety and emerging operational challenges.
IMRF builds momentum with Global Maritime SAR System Review following latest European workshop

Maritime SAR professionals from across Europe gathered in Poland for another vital IMRF workshop, contributing regional insights to its Global Maritime SAR System Review

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and SAR

Commercial MASS and remotely operated vessels could play a significant part in future maritime SAR operations to help improve capabilities and operations.
Join the IMRF

IMRF Members around the world support each other and share knowledge, experience, expertise and innovations.
Our Members
Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
SAR Matters: Defining Distress Continued ...

People known to be in distress need to be rescued, of course – and the SAR community knows that this concept must also be extended to those believed to be in distress, and to those who, while not yet in distress, will become so if help is not provided to them in the meantime.
MRO (Mass Rescue Operations Guidance)

The IMRF has developed the most comprehensive guidance available for planning and preparing for Mass Rescue Operations (MROs) in the maritime environment.
Our Work
Join Our Mailing List
Contact Us
Staff

Join our mailing list