Who can authorize an emergency radio broadcast?

The ability to authorize an emergency radio broadcast is primarily vested in the captain or person in charge of the vessel. This is rooted in the principle of maritime command and control, where the captain holds ultimate responsibility for the safety and operations of the vessel. In situations requiring an emergency broadcast, it is essential to have a clearly defined authority to ensure that communications are effective and coordinated, especially in distress situations where timely and accurate information can be critical to survival and rescue efforts.

While other personnel on the vessel, like crew members or the ship's radio officer, may assist in broadcasting the message, it is the captain or designated person in charge who has the recognized legal and operational authority to initiate such communications. This structure helps prevent confusion and ensures that emergency protocols are followed effectively.