Edited by Rachel Duncan 4th Edition ISBN 0-907649-91-2 London ...

66 RGS-IBG Polar Expeditions Manual
Chapter 7: COMMUNICATIONS
When planning an expedition the communication system to be employed is one of the most
important factors. Many countries require an adequate Safety/Communications plan to be
in place prior to granting permission for travel in their area of jurisdiction.
This requirement serves to ensure the safety and well being of the expedition
members and safeguards the authorities from launching expensive rescue missions that
may or may not be necessary. Knowledge of SAR procedures both generally and within
the chosen area of travel must be a top priority.
In the event of a SAR being instigated by either the expedition or the authorities it
is imperative that accurate information i.e. last known position is available for the rescue
services and that updated information, if available, can be passed on accurately and
without delay. The rescue services will also need to be aware of any signalling devices
carried by the expedition.
For high profile large scale expeditions, who may well have a commitment to a
commercial sponsor and/or a charitable body, high quality communications on a daily
basis may be a necessity.
The sourcing of equipment can begin once you have obtained the guidelines from
your selected organisation. The choice of equipment will be dependent on location
operability and physical functionality in sub-zero temperatures.
Most communications equipment is not designed to cope with Arctic/Antarctic
temperatures, humidity and general violent vibration. If equipment is specified for rugged
military field use, it is normally acceptable. Polar conditions sometimes exceed these
stringent stipulations. The drawback is often weight, therefore the selection generally
needs to be a working compromise.
For the most part all communications equipment will be carried either in a
backpack or on a sledge and is therefore susceptible to breakage and possible
submergence. It is advisable to look for equipment with vibration criteria and water/water
vapour exclusion specifications. Most high specification equipment has replaceable
desiccant inserts. Pelican cases are excellent protective cases available in a huge number of