PLB Beacon

What is a PLB Beacon used for?

A PLB Beacon (Personal Location Beacon) is a Beacon of distress which allows to send a distress signal to trigger a rescue chain in case of serious situation. It uses the Cospas-Sarsat system.

PLBs cannot be coded with an MMSI and do not have the same level of resistance to the marine environment as EPIRB Beacons. It is therefore advisable to equip yourself with an EPIRB in order to benefit from a high level of safety on board.

The typical example of a PLB is the MOB1 Man Overboard AIS Ocean Signal. In case of an emergency, this PLB beacon transmits a signal to all nearby AIS receivers. This handy little beacon is not bulky, and is designed to attach to your life jacket.

How does a PLB work?

The PLB works differently from the EPIRB because it is an individual beacon, intended to be carried on the person. It is imperative that each passenger carries a PLB, preferably on the life jacket.

The advantage of the PLB is that it's a very versatile piece of equipment.Marine Electronics very versatile, usable in various situations. It can be used by sailors, fishermen, hikers, mountain climbers, and any other person involved in a hazardous activity. To use it, you just have to register on the French Beacon Registryand indicate the area in which you intend to operate.

Note also that some models can be equipped with GPS technology to give more information to rescuers. This is the case of the famous DIAL braceletwhich is an individual alert and geolocation device designed with the SNSM. This bracelet is made to contact a maximum of people in case its wearer has fallen overboard. Relatives and emergency services receive an alert quickly. The man overboard is easily and accurately located thanks to the GPS functionality.

It should be noted that because of their transportability and small size, these beacons have a limited battery life guaranteeing an average of 24 hours of emission.

Warning: in Asia, the use of PLB beacons is very regulated. Please inform yourself carefully.