Liverpool Coastguard staff, who respond to 999 and radio distress calls from the Isle of Man and within Manx Waters, are among those who began a 24 hour industrial strike this morning.
However, the Island should not be badly affected in the event of an emergency.
Isle of Man Coastguard staff, RNLI Lifeboats and search and rescue helicopters are not affected, and Liverpool Coastguard intends to maintain a co-ordinated response to 999 and radio distress calls by using management and non-union employees.
In addition, Harbour Control will stand ready to respond to incidents in Manx Waters, should resources become overwhelmed.
Staff at 19 Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres throughout the United Kingdom are involved in the strike, which began at 7am.
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