4.6 Overdue Units

VERSION 1.0 – DECEMBER 2023

Purpose: This procedure provides instructions on how to manage overdue units in the State Operations Communications Centre (SurfCom) to ensure a prompt response to incidents.

Scope: This procedure applies to all operators at the State Operations Communications Centre (SurfCom) responsible for monitoring and managing unit availability and responding to incidents.

Procedure:

1. Uncertainty Phase
   1.1 Monitor and track the status of all units regularly using the relevant software and systems.
   1.2 Identify and flag any units that are overdue and have not responded to calls or check-ins.
   

2. Alarm Phase
   2.1 Attempt to establish communication with the unit via radio, phone, or any other available means.
   2.2 If communication cannot be established, attempt to determine the last known location of the unit using available resources such as GPS data, mapping software, or unit tracking systems.

3. Distress phase
   3.1 Initiate a search and rescue operation if necessary, coordinating with relevant authorities and dispatching additional resources such as search and rescue teams, helicopters, or boats.
   3.2 Notify the relevant emergency services or agencies of the overdue unit, providing any available information on the unit’s last known location, activities, and expected movements.
   3.3 Document all actions taken and communications with emergency services or agencies.
   3.4 Maintain regular communication with the response unit and emergency services until the unit is located or the search and rescue operation is successfully completed.
   3.5 Update the relevant systems and software with the status of the unit and any actions taken.

4. Responsibilities:
   4.1 All operators in the SurfCom are responsible for monitoring and managing the status of units, flagging any overdue units, attempting to establish communication with the unit, and notifying relevant authorities of the overdue unit.
   4.2 The OCS or Senior Operator is responsible for coordinating and managing the search and rescue operation and ensuring all actions and communications are documented and updated in the relevant systems.