PLB and handheld radio advice
Submitted by joycey on Sat, 2015-06-06 11:28
Hi after some opinions,
Adding to my safety gear as planning odd solo trips in boat ( metro upto 25km offshore )
Got all standard stuff ( EPIRB, radio etc)
Will be getting a PLB ( personal locating beacon ) and handheld VHF radio. Any recommendations on what makes/model to get?
Cheers
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Moking
Posts: 1252
Date Joined: 30/05/12
I've been looking into a PLB
I've been looking into a PLB for a while now, as I'm solo on the Ski. I carry EPIRB,but keep thinking about a PLB?
However conflicting views with PLB for Marine use:
What is the difference between a PLB and EPIRB? A PLB is a personal locating beacon. They are pocket sized. An EPIRB is an emergency position indicating radio beacon. They are required to float and transmit for 48 hours to meet regulations.
State and Territory Marine authorities regulations are now in force. All boats proceeding more than 2nm outside partially smooth waters, are required to carry an EPIRB that meets the Australian/New Zealand Standard 4280.1 (deals specifically with EPIRBs). EPIRBs are required to operate for a minimum of 48 hours, and float upright with antenna clear of the water, when deployed. EPIRBs are designed to operate most effectively, when activated and deployed in the water. Please note that a PLB (see separately) does not conform, and will not be accepted by regulators, as satisfying the Standard 4280.1. PLBs can of course, be carried on vessels as additional safety devices for personal use. This may be particularly helpful in man-overboard situations.
PLBs sold in Australia are required to meet AS/NZS 4280.2 and must operate for a minimum of 24 hours. They can be used on land, in the air, and on water. Although they are required to float, PLBs don’t have to confirm to EPIRB regulations. In a marine environment, a survivor would need to ensure the beacon antenna is supported clear of the water, so that it can operate effectively.
PLBs will not be accepted by the regulators as EPIRBs for the purpose of the emergency beacon regulations. The intent is that boats must be fitted with EPIRBs that meet Part 1 of the Standard 4280. Owners and crews are encouraged however, to carry PLBs in addition to the boat's EPIRB, where conditions and activities may lead to man overboard situations.
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carnarvonite
Posts: 8673
Date Joined: 24/07/07
Radio
Hand held radios only transmit at 5 watts, giving you a range of approx. 2-3nm, not much use to you if you are well offshore. I'd be going for a full size set with a big aerial, something that is going to reach shore from around 30nm and transmit at 25watts
joycey
Posts: 251
Date Joined: 28/05/11
Thanks for info.Was more as a
Thanks for info.
Was more as a back up to my fixed boat radio in case this fails or if I went overboard.
From what you're saying a handheld would be pointless if more than 3 nm offshore, so not worth getting?
meglodon
Posts: 5981
Date Joined: 17/06/10
25 NM 25 watts
If I was venturing out as far as 25 NM then I would want as bigger voice as possible ie: 25 watts