What do you think about float-free EPIRBS?

Consultation is now open on the proposal to mandate the use of float-free emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) for certain classes of commercial vessels.

According to AMSA, the use of float-free EPIRBS could in some cases alert authorities more quickly when a vessel sinks or capsizes suddenly and the crew are unable to reach and activate manual emergency beacons.

The proposed changes apply to:

• owners and operators of class 1, 2 or 3 domestic commercial vessels that operate beyond two nautical miles from the coast
• manufacturers and suppliers of EPIRBs and associated appliances
• accredited marine surveyors and recognised organisations.

The proposed changes relate to equipment requirements under the design and construction part of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV Part C7B).

Read the supporting material and have your say on the AMSA consultation page. Comments are welcome by December 12, 2017.