Use of radio and signalling equipment in survival craft
Use of radio and signalling equipment in survival craft
This domain tests distress alerts and visual signalling from a survival craft, including the correct use of GMDSS equipment and pyrotechnics.
Core rules
- The EPIRB is a 406 MHz satellite distress beacon; carry it to the craft if assigned, activate it, and keep it clear of obstruction.
- The SART is a 9 GHz radar transponder; it shows a series of dots on a rescuing ship's radar and is switched on when survivors are in the craft.
- A portable VHF radiotelephone is used for on-scene communication; distress calls follow the MAYDAY format and, where fitted, DSC alerting.
- Pyrotechnics include parachute flares, hand flares and smoke signals. Keep them dry, check expiry, and follow the instructions on the cartridge.
- Secondary signals include whistle, torch, mirror, orange smoke and waving.
Worked example
A lifeboat has an EPIRB and a SART but no ship's radar is in sight. The candidate should activate the EPIRB and switch on the SART, then use the VHF and visual signals. Reasoning: the EPIRB alerts rescue coordination via satellite; the SART only helps when a radar is near. Both are needed, and the EPIRB must not be left behind.
Traps
Leaving the EPIRB on the sinking ship; using the SART as a voice radio; using expired pyrotechnics; pointing flares at aircraft or people; forgetting to switch on the SART.