McMurdo recertification
The UKs McMurdo Group has announced the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping has recertified Type Approval for 3 safety beacons of its marine portfolio: the SmartFind E5 EPIRB, SmartFind Plus G5 GPS EPIRB and S4 Rescue SART, meaning all three can be sold throughout Russia.
The SmartFind E5 EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) transmits a signal on the 406 MHz distress frequency which is monitored by the free international Search and Rescue satellite system known as COSPAS-SARSAT. Location is determined within 5km (3 miles) and once in the area, rescue services are then able to pinpoint the casualty’s location using the inbuilt 121.5 MHz homing transmitter. SmartFind E5 includes an LED light which helps rescue services locate the casualty regardless of the time of day or visibility.
The SmartFind G5 GPS EPIRB works in the same way as the E5 but utilises a multi-channel GPS to improve location accuracy to within 62m. The EPIRB has a 48-hour battery life and is supplied with a manual release bracket.
The S4 Rescue SART (Search and Rescue Transponder) is a Search and Rescue locating device, designed to be stored in a survival craft or as a carry on device in the event that it is necessary to abandon ship.
By Jake Frith
