EPIRB vs PLB: Which is Right for You?

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs)

An EPIRB is a safety device designed to alert rescue services and provide accurate location information during emergencies. They have become essential equipment for recreational and commercial boaters and have a record of saving lives at sea.

What is an EPIRB?

EPIRBs are compact, battery-powered electronic devices that send a distress signal when triggered. They are designed to work in remote oceanic locations and are engineered to withstand harsh marine conditions. In the unfortunate event of an accident, an EPIRB guides search teams to the scene, significantly increasing the chances of survival.

Frequency and coverage:

They operate on the 406MHz frequency, which is monitored internationally by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. This global satellite network enables rapid detection and identification of distress signals, ensuring that help reaches those in need promptly.

Legal requirements for recreational and commercial vessels

Depending on local regulations and the type of vessel, an EPIRB may be mandatory. It’s essential to check the specific requirements for your region and adhere to the relevant regulations to ensure compliance and safety. Commercial boats and ships are required to carry an EPIRB in many jurisdictions, while recreational boaters are encouraged to do so voluntarily.

Types and their specific applications:

They come in two main categories: 

1. Category I is housed in a float-free hydrostatic release unit, which automatically triggers the device upon being submerged in water. This type is recommended for offshore and commercial use.
2. Category II is manually activated and is typically mounted in an easily accessible location. These devices are suitable for various recreational and sailing boats.

How EPIRBs work

1. Activation: They can be activated automatically (when submerged in water) or manually (by pressing a button on the device). Once activated, the EPIRB begins sending a distress signal.
2. Signal transmission: The distress signal consists of a unique identification code, GPS coordinates, and other essential data. This information is sent via the 406 MHz frequency.
3. Satellite relay and response: The satellite network receives the distress signal, which then forwards the data to appropriate rescue services. This streamlined process lets teams determine the exact location and quickly mobilize assistance.

Relation to Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs)

While the EPIRB and SART serve the crucial function of signaling for help, they have some key differences. SARTs are radar transponders used primarily for locating and tracking ships in distress, emitting a distinctive signal that radar systems can pick up. An EPIRB relies on satellite communications to report distress situations and location information directly to search teams, speeding up the response time.

Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs)

Personal Locator Beacons share a common goal with their larger counterpart: keeping us safe and ensuring assistance reaches us when needed. However, PLBs are designed for broader applications beyond the marine environment, making them versatile safety companions for various adventure pursuits. 

What is a PLB?

PLBs are portable, battery-powered distress beacons that transmit an alert to emergency services when activated. They are typically smaller and lighter than an EPIRB, making them ideal for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and aviation.

Frequency and coverage

Like the EPIRB, it uses the 406 MHz frequency, ensuring the same COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system picks up their distress calls. Some also feature secondary 121.5MHz homing frequencies to assist teams further in narrowing down the location during the final stages of a rescue mission.

Other use cases 

The PLB has proven itself useful in various situations besides maritime emergencies. For instance, they are valuable safety aids for hikers exploring remote areas, pilots navigating through unfamiliar skies, and adventurers embarking on extreme sports. Their compact size makes them convenient and simple to carry, ensuring your safety is always within reach.

How a PLB works

1. Activation: A PLB must be manually activated by pressing the designated button on the device. This ensures only deliberate activation, reducing the chances of accidental false alarms.
2. Signaling: Upon activation, the PLB sends a distress signal containing unique identification information and, if equipped with GPS, accurate location data.
3. Satellite relay and response: The COSPAS-SARSAT satellite network receives the signal, which forwards the information to the appropriate search teams.

Benefits of a PLB in addition to an EPIRB

While the EPIRB excels in marine environments, a PLB offers a more personalized safety solution tailored to individuals. Furthermore, it can be carried on your person, even in a pocket, lending aid in situations such as falling overboard when the EPIRB is not within reach. By having both available, you provide yourself and those onboard with multiple layers of safety coverage.

PLB Registration

They should be registered with relevant authorities to ensure successful rescue operations. Unlike EPIRBs, which are vessel-specific, a PLB is registered to the individual, making it even more important to maintain up-to-date registration information.

EPIRB or PLB: Key Differences

Size and portability

One of the most noticeable differences is their size. EPIRBs are generally larger and heavier, designed to be mounted and fixed aboard. A PLB, on the other hand, is smaller, lighter, and designed for personal carry, making them the perfect companions for individual safety across many activities.

Batteries and operational lifespan

EPIRBs tend to have longer-lasting batteries capable of transmitting distress signals for up to 48 hours. PLBs, although more compact, generally have a shorter battery life of 24 hours. Both devices have operational lifespans of about five years, but verifying the battery replacement dates and guidelines is essential to ensure optimum performance.

Activation

While EPIRBs can be activated manually and automatically (when submerged in water), PLBs rely solely on manual activation. Using deliberate activation mechanisms reduces the risk of false alarms.

Mounting and carriage requirements

EPIRBs usually come with dedicated mounting brackets designed to be installed in an accessible location on the vessel. PLBs are built to be carried on your person and are commonly attached to life jackets, belts, or backpacks for seamless accessibility during emergencies.

Range and coverage comparison

Both transmit signals on the 406 MHz frequency, tapping into the same satellite network. This international satellite system ensures consistent global coverage for both devices, maximizing your safety no matter where your adventures take you.

Registration and service fees

EPIRBs are registered to a specific vessel, while PLBs are registered to an individual. It’s crucial to keep your registration information up-to-date and abide by local regulations to ensure a seamless response. Service fees may apply for registration updates or battery replacements, so consider these costs when choosing a device.

Choosing the Right Safety Device for Your Needs

Factors to consider

1. Type of water activity: Determine the nature of the activity you most frequently engage in, such as cruising, fishing, kayaking, or personal watercraft (PWC) use. Different activities pose unique risks and challenges.
2. Length and remoteness of the trip: Consider the duration and location of your voyages. Longer or more distant expeditions may require a more robust safety device like an EPIRB, while briefer or less isolated trips may find PLBs more suitable.
3. Size and type of the vessel: EPIRBs are better suited for larger vessels or offshore trips that entail higher risks, while PLBs are a suitable choice for smaller boats or PWCs engaged in near-shore activities.
4. Number of crew or passengers: The number of people on board also plays a role in choosing between EPIRBs and PLBs. EPIRBs can provide safety coverage for the entire vessel, while PLBs cater to individual safety needs.
5. Budget and requirements of local authorities: Consider the cost and local regulations surrounding EPIRB and PLB usage in your region. This will help you make a well-informed decision that aligns with your budget and complies with mandatory safety requirements.

Pros and cons of each device

EPIRB Pros: 

• Designed specifically for marine use
• Longer battery life
• Automatic activation when submerged
• Vessel-specific registration

Cons:

• Larger and less portable
• Limited to marine use

PLB Pros: 

• Compact and portable
• Suitable for various adventure pursuits
• Personal safety coverage

Cons:

• Shorter battery life
• Manual activation only

Examples of suitable scenarios 

EPIRB:

• Offshore sailing or commercial maritime activities
• Extended voyages in oceanic regions
• Large vessels carrying multiple passengers or crew

PLB:

• Near-shore boating, kayaking, or personal watercraft use
• Hiking, aviation, or other outdoor adventures
• Solo expeditions or situations where individual safety is crucial

How to Use and Maintain an EPIRB and PLB

Testing and regular maintenance best practices

To ensure your devices remain in top working order, it’s crucial to perform regular tests and maintenance checks as the manufacturer recommends. Most devices feature a dedicated test function, allowing you to verify that the beacon is working correctly without triggering an emergency response. Follow the testing guidelines in the owner’s manual and perform these routine checks as part of your pre-departure checklist.

Registration and updates

Ensure your EPIRB or PLB registration is up to date with accurate information. EPIRBs are registered to a vessel, while PLBs are registered to an individual. Regularly update your registration details, especially when changing boats, personal details, or emergency contacts, to facilitate a swift and effective rescue response.

Proper stowage and handling to avoid false alarms

False alarms can burden resources and cause unnecessary worry. Store them in a secure and easily accessible location, away from potential accidental activation triggers. Consider investing in a protective case or pouch for your PLB to minimize the risk while carrying it on your person.

Final Thoughts

The choice between an EPIRB and a PLB depends on your requirements and the nature of your activities. Both devices serve a common purpose – to ensure safety during emergencies by providing precise location information to rescue services. However, they differ in their applications, capabilities, and usage protocols. Larger and more robust, the EPIRB is ideal for commercial maritime activities and offshore voyages. A PLB, however, provides versatile safety coverage for various outdoor pursuits, including boating, hiking, and aviation, due to its compact and portable design.