The Maritime & Coastguard Agency implements the government's maritime safety policy in the UK and works to prevent the loss o ... f life on the coast and at sea. We provide a 24-hour maritime search and rescue service around the UK coast and in the international search and rescue region through HM Coastguard. We also inspect and survey ships to ensure that they are meeting UK and international safety rules, provide certification to seafarers, register vessels and respond to pollution from shipping and offshore installations. read more