Overview

The IAMSAR Manual is the definitive international reference for Search and Rescue system organization and management, jointly published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Volume I addresses the organization and management aspects of global SAR systems, covering how national and regional SAR systems should be established, improved, and coordinated with neighboring states for effective and economical SAR services.

The 2025 Edition incorporates significant amendments adopted by the IMO Maritime Safety Committee in December 2024, becoming mandatory on January 1, 2026. These updates reflect modern maritime realities: multinational coordination, enhanced communication protocols, digital system integration, and improved training standards. Organizations continuing with 2022 procedures after this date risk regulatory non-compliance, port state control deficiencies, and operational complications during actual rescue scenarios.

This manual is essential for maritime authorities, government SAR administrations, rescue coordination centers, and organizations responsible for developing national SAR policies. Unlike Volume III (required aboard all merchant vessels) or Volume II (required in rescue coordination centers), Volume I addresses policy-level implementation and system design.

Regulatory

Mandatory Compliance Requirements

The 2025 Edition represents regulatory updates becoming enforceable January 1, 2026. Organizations operating under previous SAR procedures after this date face regulatory non-compliance risk. Port State Control inspections specifically assess alignment with current IAMSAR procedures; vessels and facilities using outdated editions can receive deficiencies.

SOLAS Requirements

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter V requires vessels to maintain current search and rescue procedures. The 2025 Edition satisfies this requirement with the latest amendments. Government maritime authorities must ensure national SAR systems align with 2025 Edition guidance; the manual serves as the international standard against which national procedures are evaluated.

Shipping & Delivery

Delivery Options

Hardcover Edition

• Shipped via Standard Delivery (5-10 business days) or Expedited Delivery (2-4 business days)

• Tracking information provided with all shipments

• International shipping available to most countries

• Bulk orders qualify for special shipping arrangements

Digital IMO e-Reader Edition

• Access via web-browser application on computers, tablets, and mobile devices

• 24/7 availability from any device with internet connection

• Searchable text for quick reference to specific topics

• Cloud-based storage eliminates physical storage requirements

Additional

Relationship to Other IAMSAR Volumes

The IAMSAR Manual consists of three complementary volumes:

Volume I (This Product) addresses system-level organization and management, aimed at government maritime agencies and SAR administrators developing national SAR systems and policies.

Volume II covers mission coordination and operational procedures for rescue coordination centers, rescue units, and aircraft performing SAR functions. Required aboard rescue vessels and rescue coordination centers.

Volume III provides vessel-level implementation guidance, mandatory aboard all merchant vessels under SOLAS regulations. Covers search methodology, on-scene coordination, and vessel emergency SAR aspects.

Integration Benefits

Organizations developing comprehensive SAR capabilities benefit from coordinated access to all three volumes. Using outdated editions across different volumes creates inconsistencies. Many organizations acquire all three 2025 Edition volumes simultaneously for coordinated implementation across policy, operational, and vessel-level procedures.

Previous Editions

The 2022 Edition remains available for organizations with specific legacy requirements. However, the 2025 Edition is recommended for all new purchases and organizational updates. A new IAMSAR edition is published every three years; organizations should plan upgrade schedules accordingly.

Training & Certification

The 2025 Edition serves as the authoritative reference for IMO Model Course 3.13 (SAR Administration) and other SAR training programs. Maritime academies, government maritime agencies, and rescue services should update training curricula to reflect 2025 amendments. Organizations conducting crew training should acquire copies for educational material development.

Shipping Options:

• Standard: Ships in 1-2 days, delivers 3-7 days (FedEx/UPS, tracking by email)

• Expedited: 2-Day & Overnight options, Saturday delivery available

• International: Standard (7-21 days), Express (3-7 days major ports), all with tracking; customs/duties apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do organizations need to switch to the 2025 Edition?

A: The 2025 Edition amendments become mandatory January 1, 2026. Organizations should implement immediately; delaying until January 2026 risks operational confusion and crew unfamiliarity with updated procedures. Port State Control will assess compliance beginning June 1, 2026.

Q: Which volume do we need—Volume I, II, or III?

A: It depends on your organization. Merchant vessel operators need Volume III (mandatory under SOLAS). Rescue coordination centers need Volume II. Government maritime authorities and SAR administrators need Volume I. Many organizations benefit from all three.

Q: What's the difference between hardcover and digital editions?

A: Hardcover provides physical reference suitable for bridge installations and operational centers. Digital provides 24/7 access via any web-browser on any device and searchable text. Many organizations acquire both formats.

Q: Are there refunds on digital editions?

A: No. Digital products cannot be refunded or exchanged. Review product details carefully before purchasing digital formats.

Q: How long does international shipping take?

A: International delivery typically requires 5-10 business days depending on destination. Tracking information is provided with all orders.

Q: Can we get volume discounts for multiple copies?

A: Yes. Orders of 10+ copies qualify for volume discounts. Contact sales@amnautical.com or +1-954-292-4212 for bulk order pricing.

Q: Do we need to update if we already have the 2022 Edition?

A: Yes, for regulatory compliance after January 1, 2026. The 2025 Edition incorporates mandatory amendments. Organizations should acquire updated editions immediately.

Q: What if we need training materials on the 2025 amendments?

A: Contact our sales team. We can recommend training resources aligned with current standards.

Q: How do we know if our national SAR procedures align with the 2025 Edition?

A: Review your documented SAR procedures against 2025 Edition chapters. Many organizations conduct gap analyses to identify required updates. Contact maritime authorities in your region for official compliance guidance.

Q: Is the 2025 Edition available in languages other than English?

A: Yes. Spanish and French digital editions are available. Contact sales for language-specific availability and ordering.