Deck officers should have the following knowledge/ability:

1. A detailed knowledge of the operation of all GMDSS sub-systems and equipment.
2. The ability to send and receive messages correctly by radio telephone and NBDP.
3. A detailed knowledge of the regulations applying to radio communications.
4. A knowledge of the documents relating to the charges for radio communications.
5. A knowledge of those provisions of SOLAS which relate to radio.
6. Sufficient knowledge of one of the working languages of the ITU (International Telecommunications Union) – French, English or Spanish.
7. Candidates must be able to express themselves satisfactorily in that language, both orally and in writing.