IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases SMCP including Pronunciation Guide on CD 2005 Edition IA987E
As navigational and safety communications from ship to shore and vice versa, from ship to ship, and on board the ship must be precise, simple and unambiguous to avoid confusion and error, there is a need to standardize the language used.
In 1973, the MSC agreed that where language difficulties arise, a common language should be used for navigational purposes. That language should be English. The IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases publication is divided into Part A- External Communications Phrases, and Part B - On-Board Communication Phrases.
Under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as revised in 1995, the ability to use and understand the IMO SMCP is required for the certification of officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.
Includes Pronunciation Guide on CD |