Mini PLB certified for European use
An innovative new personal locator beacon (PLB) is now fully certified for use throughout Europe and the USA after it was recently awarded the relevant Cospas-Sarsat and product approvals.
The rescueME PLB1 has been designed and manufactured by Margate UK based communications and safety at sea specialist Ocean Signal. It will be distributed in the UK by Liverpool based marine safety products specialist International Safety Products (ISP).
Claimed to be the world’s smallest personal locator beacon, Ocean Signal estimates it is 30% smaller than a typical personal locator beacon, measuring 75mm high and 51mm wide and weighing just 116g.
The rescueME PLB1’s compact design enables it to be easily carried on one’s person, taking up minimal space and ensuring it is as accessible as possible. Its antenna has also been specially designed to make deployment easy with a gentle pull. It can be operated with a single hand in even the most challenging conditions and has an operational life of 24 hours at -20°C. Its operating temperature ranges from -20°C to 55°C, while it is waterproof to a depth of 15m. A simple spring loaded flap covers the activation button, preventing inadvertent use.
The rescueME PLB1 has three methods of communicating its location on land or at sea, ensuring the maximum chance of survival. First is via satellite, working with the only officially recognised search and rescue satellite network operated by Cospas Sarsat. This network is funded by Government, so there are no charges for the service. When activated, the beacon transmits the user’s position and unique ID to a rescue coordination centre via the satellite link. Emergency services are then kept informed of current location.
The second method is a homing signal which is transmitted on 121.5MHz and is received by equipment fitted to both sea and aircraft. The third method of communication is a high density strobe light to ensure maximum visibility.
The rescueME PLB1 has been awarded its type approval certificate by the Cospas-Sarsat Secretariat showing full compatibility with the 406MHz Satellite System. The PLB1 also meets the full regulatory requirements for Europe and is backed up by verification from the certification body, TÜV SÜD BABT. Additionally, approval has been granted for use in the USA by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Ocean Signal commenced the first deliveries of the innovative PLB1 last month following the receipt of the approvals for usage, which confirm all the relevant requirements have been satisfied for a life-saving product.
