Description
IAMSAR Manual Volume I (Organization and Management) is an official publication developed by the International Maritime Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization, describing how national and international search and rescue services are organized and managed. The manual is a core component of the global IAMSAR system and is used by authorities and organizations responsible for SAR services.
The publication provides guidelines for the establishment and operation of effective search and rescue systems. It describes how states can organize their rescue services, establish Search and Rescue Regions (SRR), and cooperate internationally to ensure rapid response in emergencies.
IAMSAR Manual Volume I focuses on the planning, organization, and management of SAR services at a national level. The manual provides guidance on developing SAR plans, cooperation between various rescue resources, and establishing effective structures for coordination between maritime and aviation-based rescue organizations.
The 2025 edition reflects updated recommendations and procedures adopted by the IMO and ICAO to strengthen international cooperation in search and rescue. The manual is used by maritime authorities, rescue coordination centers, coast guards, SAR organizations, and maritime educational institutions worldwide.
The IAMSAR manuals are normally updated every three years to reflect developments in international search and rescue procedures and experiences from operational SAR services.
The IAMSAR series consists of Volume I (Organization and Management), Volume II (Mission Coordination), and Volume III (Mobile Facilities), as well as IAMSAR Action Cards.
Kart.no is an authorized provider of IMO publications in Norway, supplying printed and digital publications to rescue services, shipping companies, and maritime educational institutions.
