McMurdo Ltd has introduced a new generation of internationally-approved search and rescue transponders (SARTs) that operate on the AIS frequency band. The Smartfind S5 AIS SART was launched following the adoption of the AIS SART product standards into IMO GMDSS carriage requirements as an optional alternative to the traditional 9GHz SART on 1 January this year.
A major benefit of the AIS SART is that target survivor information is viewable using standard ship’s AIS equipment including the ship’s ECDIS display. Due to the accuracy of AIS both the range and course to locate the survivors are presented on screen, enabling potential rescuers to plan the most efficient recovery approach.
AIS SART is a further major step forward in safety technology designed to ensure the efficient and safe recovery of commercial fishing crews in the event of having to abandon ship.
Smartfind S5 AIS SART transmits a series of updating structured alert messages on the AIS frequency band which include position information and a serialised identity number.
Once activated, Smartfind S5 AIS SART transmits emergency alerts for a minimum of 96 hours. An in-built, high precision GPS provides exact position information to assist in quick recovery of survivors.
Buoyant, waterproof and rugged, the Smartfind S5 has a long life non-hazardous battery for easy transportation making an economical alternative to the traditional 9GHz SART, said UK-based McMurdo.
Once activated the AIS SART may be suspended inside the survival craft or mounted in an elevated position using the integrated extending the pole.
McMurdo’s satellite distress beacons, typically the Smartfind EPIRB which is installed in the vessel, or the Fast Find PLB, a compact version registered to and carried by an individual, work with the COSPAS SARSAT government satellite system.
A signal emitted from any of these beacons is detected from anywhere in the world and relayed to rescue authorities in the country of registration who thus take responsibility for co-ordinating the search and rescue operation with local agencies near the scene of the incident.
As with the Smartfind S5 SART, the use of such safety products has increased significantly due to legislation and awareness in the last couple of decades, and COSPAS SARSAT report that to date over 30,000 lives have been saved through the use of satellite beacons.
