Regulatory dates in the near future
In the near future we will see some important issues that may need your attention. We have compiled a list of important regulatory dates that covers issues as; new radar requirements, AIS for inland ships, LRIT, etc...
1 February 2009 – COSPAS/SARSAT terminates 121,5 MHz EPIRB detection.
The International Cospas-Sarsat System will cease satellite processing of 121.5/243 MHz beacons from 1 February 2009. All beacon owners and users should begin taking steps to replace their 121.5/243 MHz beacons with 406 MHz beacons as soon as possible. A good time to consider purchasing a 406 MHz beacon is when the battery on your 121.5 MHz beacon needs replacing. Typically, batteries need replacing about every five years. The sooner you upgrade, the better the service that the Cospas-Sarsat System can provide you if your beacon is activated in a distress event.
Beginning in 2009, only 406 MHz beacons will be detected by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. This affects all maritime beacons (EPIRBs), all aviation beacons (ELTs) and all personal beacons (PLBs).
1 January 2010 – Inland Shipping river radars and ROT indicators
As from 1 january 2010, According the CCR resolution 1999-III-12, Analogue radars and old type ROT indicators may no longer be used on board inland vessels (EU). For radars a new date of 1 January 2012 is under consideration while for ROT indicators this new date is 1 January 2015. (This will be decided in the spring meeting of CCR)
6 April 2010 – Inland VHF’s
As from 6 April 2010 all inland VHF's shall be able to operate on Channel 75 and 76
contactperson
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Henk Middelkoop