When should a "Pan-Pan" message be used?

The "Pan-Pan" message is specifically designated for safety-related communications. It signals that there is a situation concerning the safety of a vessel or a person on board, which does not constitute a distress signal but requires attention. This type of message informs other vessels and relevant authorities that assistance or advice may be necessary to ensure safety and to prevent a potential escalation into a distress situation.

In contrast, a distress message would use "Mayday" to indicate that a vessel is in grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance. Routine communications and administrative tasks do not require the urgency or broadcasting to all channels that a "Pan-Pan" message entails, as they pertain to everyday operations and administrative functions rather than immediate safety concerns.