EPIRB Maintenance and Testing

An emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) is vital to maritime safety. When your vessel is in distress, this device acts as a beacon, letting global emergency responders know where you are and that your ship needs urgent assistance.

Maintaining and testing your EPIRB is essential to ensure it functions correctly in an emergency. Regular maintenance and testing of your vessel's EPIRBs through routine inspections, replacing expired batteries and conducting self-tests will confirm the device is in good working order.

Understanding EPIRBs

Having an EPIRB on board significantly increases the chances of an effective and timely rescue. These secondary distress alerting transmitters signal search and rescue services when you have an emergency at sea and send your location. They are battery-operated and use the 406 MHz or 121.5 MHz frequency to signal ground stations and satellites. Each device sends a signal with a unique identification number. Registered EPIRBs will have additional information about the vessel and owner.

When submerged in water, the EPIRB is activated automatically by a hydrostatic release unit (HRU) that releases the device from its bracket. Aside from emergency signaling, they are important for maritime safety for several reasons:

• Regulatory compliance: Under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), some vessels are legally required to have an EPIRB on board.
• Location accuracy: EPIRBs come with GPS receivers, which transmit your exact location to rescuers. This makes it easier and faster for them to reach you.
• Durability: EPIRBs can withstand harsh marine conditions, ensuring they remain functional in severe weather conditions.
• Independence: EPIRBs work independently of the vessel's power supply, so they are still operational if the vessel's systems fail for any reason.

Types of EPIRBs

Understanding the different types of EPIRBs can help you choose the right device for your needs to ensure maximum safety at sea. Category I operates on 406/121.5 MHz and is automatically activated. Any satellite can pick up its location, and it is recognized by GMDSS. Category II devices run on the same frequency as Category I but are manually activated, with some water-activated models.

Fawcett Tip: Update your EPIRBs registration information whenever ownership or vessel changes occur.

EPIRB Maintenance Schedule

An EPIRB maintenance schedule typically includes monthly checks to ensure the device has no physical damage and the antenna is intact. Annual inspections include checking the battery's expiration date and verifying that your registration details are up to date. You must also conduct maintenance if the EPIRB was activated in an emergency. Have the device serviced as soon as possible and replace the battery — even if it still has life remaining.

Maintenance starts with routine visual inspections. Look for signs of corrosion, damage and tampering, and check any expiration dates. Additional checks include:

• Regular checks: Test the EPIRB at least once a month. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to run a self-test and check the battery indicator.
• Servicing: Send your EPIRB to an authorized service center for battery replacement and servicing. This ensures proper handling and that the beacon is tested for optimal functionality.
• Documentation: Keep a record of all maintenance and battery replacements. This helps you track your service history and verify your regulatory compliance.
• Mounting: Check that the device is securely mounted to your vessel.

Your annual EPIRB testing goes more in-depth. It includes:

• Inspecting the device visually
• Verifying the device is installed correctly
• Checking the battery and hydrostatic release expiration dates
• Checking that no transmission started after testing and remounting the EPIRB in its bracket
• Decoding the device's identity number and other information to confirm it is correct and aligns with what is marked on the device

Shore-based maintenance is carried out according to MSC Circular 1039 at intervals not exceeding five years or when the battery needs to be replaced. You should have a shore-based maintenance (SBM) provider perform this test annually.

EPIRB Battery Replacement

Battery replacement is a crucial part of your EPIRB maintenance schedule. Replace your EPIRB battery by the date indicated on the battery's label and use the manufacturer-specified model. Using other batteries could prevent the EPIRB from transmitting as long as it needs to. You should also replace the battery after any emergency activation, as these devices transmit signals for 48 hours, which will drain the battery. Batteries usually last between five and seven years, but regardless of this, you must follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

While it is best to have a professional handle EPIRB battery replacement, you can do it yourself by following these steps:

1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions by reading the EPIRB's manual.
2. Turn off the EPIRB before you open it up to avoid accidentally activating the device.
3. Carefully remove the old battery and dispose of it safely.
4. Install the new battery according to the manual's instructions.
5. Test the EPIRB to confirm that it works correctly after installation.

Fawcett Tip: Adding an annual professional inspection to your maintenance schedule gives you an extra layer of security.

EPIRB Testing

When testing your EPIRB, there are several steps to follow. It is essential to read the manual, as each model may have different guidelines. Preliminary testing ensures the EPIRB is installed correctly, the battery is not expired, and the device is registered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FFC).

Fawcett Tip: Log the test by recording the date and results of the test in your log book for future reference. If you are hiring a professional, they will send you detailed service reports with a description of repairs made or parts replaced.

Self-Test Procedures

When performing a self-test, locate the self-test button on the device. Conduct the test in an open area, away from metal objects that can cause interference. Most EPIRBs have a self-test button. Press it for the required duration, which may be up to 10 seconds. Observe the indicators — the EPIRB will flash a light or emit a beep to indicate functionality. This process self-tests to verify its radio frequency signal and GPS functionality, where applicable. A successful test usually involves a specific sequence of beeps or flashes. Again, the user manual will indicate what you need to look out for.

Wrap up the self-test procedures by checking and replacing the battery if the EPIRB has recently gone off or is close to its expiration date.

Conducting regular self-tests on your EPIRB is a crucial part of vessel safety. These self-tests offer the following benefits:

• Operational assurance: Self-tests verify that the EPIRB is operational, which can be life-saving in an emergency.
• Early issue detection: Regular self-testing helps identify potential problems, such as faulty electronics or weak batteries, before they become critical.
• Battery health monitoring: The self-test function typically includes a battery check. It ensures the battery has enough power to operate for the required duration in an emergency.
• Signal verification: Self-tests often include a brief transmission check to confirm that the EPIRB can send a distress signal properly.
• Peace of mind: Regular self-testing gives you confidence in the device's functionality. This contributes to the overall safety of the vessel and its crew.

Signal Strength Testing

Use a signal strength test kit specially designed for EPIRBs. These kits measure the strength of the transmitted signal. Connect the kit by attaching it to the device per the instructions. Then, activate the EPIRB's test mode and allow the test kit to measure the signal strength. Read the results and ensure the signal strength meets the manufacturer's specifications. If it is too weak, it may indicate a faulty antenna or a problem with the internal electronics.

Proper installation and positioning can ensure strong signal strength. Ensure the EPIRB is mounted correctly, per the manufacturer's instructions. Improper mounting can hinder the signal. The EPIRB must also be installed in a location with a clear view of the sky, free from obstructions. Avoid areas surrounded by metal, electronic devices or other materials that can block its signal.

Regularly inspect the antenna for any physical damage or wear. Ensure it is clean and free from any substances that might block or interfere with the signal. Check that its casing and seals are intact to protect the device from environmental damage and moisture.

Professional Servicing

You can also follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, typically every one to two years, and have the device serviced professionally. Have a certified technician or authorized service center perform the inspection and any necessary repairs, as they have the expertise and tools for the task. A thorough professional servicing includes:

• Full diagnostic tests
• Battery replacement
• Signal transmission tests
• GPS functionality tests, if applicable
• Inspection of the casing and seals to ensure they are waterproof

Professional EPIRB servicing gives you access to certified technicians who can ensure the service is done accurately and troubleshoot any potential issues on your behalf. They conduct in-depth signal strength tests to verify the device meets the required specifications. Technicians can also swiftly inspect and repair internal components that are not accessible during your routine self-tests.

Regular professional servicing can extend the life span of your EPIRB by addressing potential issues before they become serious problems.

Fawcett Tip: Some manufacturers require professional servicing to maintain your warranty coverage, so pay attention to these details.

Common Failures and Troubleshooting

You have a few options for self-troubleshooting when your EPIRB is acting up. If none of these common troubleshooting ideas work, you might need to replace the EPIRB altogether.

Consult professionals for help at these times:

• After emergency use
• In case of weak signal strength
• After repeated self-test failures
• If you can see the device has physical damage
• During the manufacturer's recommended service intervals

Fawcett Tip: Reporting accidental or false EPIRB activations is crucial to avoid unnecessarily using search and rescue resources.

Troubleshooting Weak Signals

For the initial checks, perform a self-test to see if the EPIRB indicates any faults. Also, confirm the battery has not expired and has a sufficient charge. Inspect the antenna for bends, breaks or cracks. Ensure the antenna is securely connected to the device. Some EPIRBs may require firmware or software updates. Consult the manufacturer's website or customer support for any available updates.

You can use a test kit to check the signal strength and compare the results to the manufacturer's specifications. To rule out environmental interference, try testing the device in different locations. Look for environmental factors like obstructions that can block the EPIRB's signal path. Reduce interference by moving away from or turning off other electronic devices that can cause interference.

Finally, if basic troubleshooting isn't delivering results, have the device inspected by a certified technician who can perform detailed diagnostic tests.

Troubleshooting Battery Failure

Batteries have a finite life span and can expire, leading to device failure. Broken seals can also cause corrosion on battery contacts, which interferes with proper power supply. Regularly check the battery expiration dates and replace it immediately if you see signs of corrosion.

Troubleshooting Activation Mechanism Failure

Problems with the manual activation switch can prevent the device from being turned on. Check that the manual activation switch is unobstructed, especially noting any water ingress. When the automatic triggers fail, mechanical or sensor issues often occur. Test the automatic activation mechanism to check if it is faulty.

Test the manual activation switch periodically to ensure it works and inspect the housing for cracks. If water automatically activates the device, ensure the HRU is within its service date. Replace any faulty components immediately.

Troubleshooting a Failed Self-Test

An EPIRB may fail a self-test due to low battery, hardware issues or software glitches. Never ignore a failed self-test, as this indicates the devices may not function in an emergency. If your self-test fails, there are three things you can do before calling a professional:

1. Check the battery to confirm the contacts are clean and the battery has not expired.
2. Inspect the antenna for damage and confirm it is properly connected.
3. Consult the manual for troubleshooting specific error codes and signals.

Upgrade Your EPIRB With Fawcett Boat Supplies

Regular checks and upkeep on your EPIRB can make a critical difference when you need it most. Keeping up with the device's maintenance means taking precautions to ensure it works when needed and provides vital assistance in life-threatening situations at sea.

At Fawcett Boat Supplies, we are your partner in keeping you afloat. Our family-owned business has been a staple in the boating community since 1948, supplying a global boating community with marine supplies. We provide various products, including marine electronics, outboard motor parts, marine fasteners, gally and cabin upgrades and rigging and sailing hardware. Whatever your boating needs, we are ready to help. Contact us today, or call us at 410-237-0507 for assistance.