The On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) Course is designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to fulfill the role of an On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) for maritime and aeronautical search and rescue (SAR) incidents, as outlined in the IAMSAR Manual, Volume III. This course assists in meeting the SAR obligations established by the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue, 1979, and the SOLAS Convention, 1974.

Spanning five days and divided into two parts, the course begins with a three-day Basic level. Here, participants engage in lessons and simulations covering emergency response strategies, coordination of SAR operations, and initial action by assisting facilities, suitable for those new to SAR duties. The subsequent two-day Advanced level consists of lessons that further develop skills necessary for professional OSC duties, using practical applications through simulator exercises.

This structured approach not only introduces the organization of SAR services but also focuses on enhancing decision-making capabilities and on-scene coordination through immersive simulation, preparing participants for any SAR scenario.