What is EPIRB?

EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons - The radio buoy indicates the emergency position. EPIRB is used to urgently indicate the location of a ship's accident via satellite when activated. When a ship loses contact at sea, this device is a great aid in finding the right position.

Frequency of operation of EPIRB

This equipment must be fitted on board according to the GMDSS, it is composed of an antenna carrier buoy, a control panel and a 5W transmitter (some EPIRBs have two transmitters 5W and 0.25W), one number with integrated GPS. Each EPIRB is assigned a unique identifier with the authority to help identify each vessel.

The international standard accident reporting frequency is 406 MHz, the signal it transmits can be detected within 3 knots. Some EPIRBs with a frequency of 121.5 MHz are identifiable within 15 knots. Today all marine EPIRBs operate at a dual frequency of 121.5 / 406 MHz.

How to activate EPIRB float

The EPIRB is not pre-enabled, but must be activated to broadcast. Can be activated by pressing the button on the device, or when there is an accident (sinking) where it is exposed to water, it will float, the hydrostatic lock automatically activates EPIRB. In other words, it can be activated manually or automatically.

It can be said that the EPIRB emergency location indicator radio device is an indispensable device for ships operating at sea. Along with other emergency alarming methods such as life flares, life-saving equipment ..., the EPIRB float emergency alarm method plays a very important role, contributing to ensuring safety as well as seafarers' network.

Moreover, in dangerous and urgent situations, the EPIRB buoy is also the only means of warning when the ship has not been able to initiate an emergency by any means before. Therefore, it is really important to equip EPIRB buoy on board, EPIRB buoy is an indispensable companion on board for every safe sea trip.