Working Groups
Effective maritime search and rescue operations require collaboration and cooperation among different stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and industry groups. Our working groups and research play a crucial role in developing and implementing best practices and innovative solutions for maritime search and rescue across the globe.
We currently have working groups covering a variety of areas within maritime search and rescue, including:
- Design and delivery of standardised Incident Command Systems (ICS), Pre Incident Plans (PIPs) and emergency plans for maritime SAR response and the maritime industry.
- Research and development of effective medical care for casualties during maritime search and rescue events
- Development of standards, polices and procedures for maritime search and rescue operations, technical standards for SAR vessels and equipment, and standardisation of international maritime search and rescue training systems
The work carried out by our working groups if filtered into the larger research and policy work being conducted by the Maritime Emergencies and Coastguard Policy Institute on a wide range of policy areas. The aim of this work is to influence and steer national and international maritime SAR and emergency response policy.
If you are a member of Maritime Search and Rescue Council and wish to take part in our working groups, please contact us using the website form or council@maritimesar.org
Research
The Maritime Emergencies and Coastguard Centre of Excellence (MECCOE) is an international consortium of organizations dedicated to advancing maritime safety and emergency response through research, training, innovation, and development at both national and international levels. MECCOE addresses a wide spectrum of maritime challenges, including search and rescue operations, oil spill response, security, resilience building, and natural disaster preparedness.
The institute plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and frameworks that enable efficient, coordinated, and effective responses to maritime incidents. By working in close collaboration with government agencies, international organizations, and industry stakeholders, MECCOE ensures its initiatives are aligned with both global standards and local operational needs.
Through comprehensive studies, applied research, and specialized training, MECCOE delivers evidence-based recommendations that strengthen the strategic frameworks and operational protocols of coast guard and maritime emergency services worldwide.
We actively support MECCOE’s mission by contributing critical data, operational insights, outputs from working groups, and field expertise that inform global research. This partnership ensures that MECCOE’s training and policy guidance remain grounded in real-world experience and operational realities.
By bridging the gap between theory and practice, our collaboration helps develop robust, actionable policies that enhance maritime search and rescue capabilities, foster international cooperation, and promote the adoption of best practices in emergency preparedness and response across the maritime domain.
