Emergency Communication at Sea: A Complete Guide to LALIZAS & Ocean Signal Devices (EPIRB, PLB, AIS-MOB, SART, GMDSS)

When things go wrong at sea, time and communication decide everything. Modern emergency communication equipment is no longer just “another box to tick” for an inspector – it’s your real safety net for the lives of your crew and guests.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down the essential devices from the LALIZAS Emergency Communication range, explain the differences between them, and help you choose the right setup for your yacht, charter fleet, or commercial vessel.

We are Gaelix Marine Service – the official LALIZAS representative – providing global supply, installation, and service for all maritime safety systems.

What Falls Under "Emergency Communication" Today?

The Emergency Communication Devices category from LALIZAS includes:

EPIRBs (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons)
PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons)
AIS-MOB devices
SART (Search and Rescue Transponders)
GMDSS handheld radios
Electronic distress flares and signal lights
Plus essential accessories (e.g., hydrostatic release units for EPIRBs)

All these devices form a modern ecosystem compatible with COSPAS-SARSAT and GMDSS, with many models adding AIS alerts for local rescue coordination.

EPIRB: The Vessel's "Big Red Button"

What is an EPIRB?
An EPIRB (406 MHz) is a vessel-mounted distress beacon that, when activated, transmits your emergency signal via the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite network and relays your exact coordinates to search and rescue authorities.

The new generation adds AIS transmission for nearby vessels, Return Link Service (RLS) – confirmation that your distress signal was received, and NFC smartphone configuration for easy testing.

Top Models & Key Features

Ocean Signal EPIRB3 – ultra-compact with 72-channel GNSS (GPS/GLONASS), AIS, RLS, and NFC app integration for quick monthly testing and diagnostics.
Ocean Signal EPIRB3 Pro – Category I (float-free) version with automatic release cradle, AIS, RLS, and full GMDSS compliance.
Ocean Signal EPIRB1 Pro – SOLAS-approved, compact, includes a float-free bracket and hydrostatic release unit – a reliable “workhorse” for commercial fleets.

Tip: Always check your HRU (Hydrostatic Release Unit) expiration date. LALIZAS offers its own certified HRU – a cost-effective replacement.

PLB: Your Personal Lifeline

A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is a personal 406 MHz distress beacon for crew or guests. It is suitable not only for vessels but also for shore activities like diving, kiting, or kayaking.

Ocean Signal PLB3 – combines global COSPAS-SARSAT rescue with AIS-MOB alert, RLS confirmation, high-intensity strobes, and NFC configuration.
Ocean Signal PLB1 – one of the smallest PLBs available (~30% more compact than standard), waterproof to 15 m, 66-channel GPS, 7-year battery & warranty.

AIS-MOB Beacons: Instant Visibility for Nearby Vessels

AIS-MOB devices transmit a Man Overboard (MOB) alert directly to AIS-equipped chartplotters nearby. Some also trigger a DSC call on VHF radios.

Ocean Signal MOB1 – integrates into an inflatable lifejacket, activates automatically upon inflation, transmits AIS & DSC.
Ocean Signal MOB2 – floating standalone MOB beacon for crew, guests, tender operations, or anglers.
Ocean Signal M100 – designed for professional crews (commercial/fishing).
AIS Alarm Box – an onboard alarm unit for immediate audio/visual alert when MOB or EPIRB-AIS signals are received – ideal for night passages.

SART: Your Radar Transponder for Search & Rescue

SART (Search and Rescue Transponder) is mandatory for SOLAS vessels and a smart upgrade for ocean-going yachts. It responds to rescue radar pulses and displays a “ladder” on their screen, pinpointing your exact location.

Ocean Signal S100 – compact, 12h operation after 96h standby, supplied with telescopic pole & bracket, MED & FCC certified.
ACR Pathfinder PRO SART – a robust alternative for commercial fleets using ACR safety systems.

GMDSS Portable Radios: Essential Backup Voice Link

A GMDSS-approved VHF is your emergency voice communication device.

Ocean Signal V100 / V100-KIT / V100A – waterproof, MED & FCC certified, 21 simplex channels, >16h battery life.
ACR SR203 – GMDSS “survival craft” VHF commonly chosen for lifeboat kits.

Electronic Distress Lights: The Safer Flare Alternative

Ocean Signal EDF1 – LED-based electronic distress flare, 360° light, 6-hour runtime, SOS mode, waterproof to 10 m, replaceable battery. No expiry date, no pyrotechnic risks – perfect for charters & family cruising.

Essential Accessories Often Overlooked

LALIZAS Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) – certified replacement for Category I EPIRB brackets.
Regularly check battery expiry dates (EPIRB/PLB/SART) and schedule NFC-enabled self-tests (EPIRB3/PLB3).

Quick Selection Guide

Sailing area: coastal day trips, offshore cruising, or ocean passage?
Regulatory compliance: SOLAS/GMDSS flag, charter requirements, insurance conditions.
Environment: cold water & poor visibility → AIS-MOB + EPIRB with AIS; ocean passage → EPIRB with RLS + PLB for each watch crew.
Integration: ensure AIS-MOB compatibility with your plotters, add AIS Alarm Box for audible alerts.
Service: plan HRU replacements, EPIRB/PLB battery checks, and regular tests.

Fast Recommendations by Vessel Type

Family/charter sailing yacht (30–55 ft): EPIRB3 (or EPIRB3 Pro for Cat I), PLB3 for skipper & watch crew, MOB1 for each lifejacket, AIS Alarm Box, EDF1 as electronic flare.
Motor yacht / superyacht: EPIRB3 Pro, PLB1/PLB3 for crew, MOB1/MOB2 for guests & tender, SART S100, GMDSS V100-series.
Commercial/offshore: EPIRB3 Pro (Cat I), SART (S100 or ACR Pathfinder PRO), GMDSS radios (V100-series / ACR SR203), PLB3 with AIS for personnel, M100 for work crews.

Why Buy from Gaelix Marine Service?

Official LALIZAS representative – direct access to the latest models and specifications.
Worldwide shipping – complete “flag-ready” kits delivered anywhere with proper documentation and certification.
Installation & service – assistance with EPIRB/PLB registration, Cat I bracket setup, HRU replacement, and regular NFC checks.

Sail Safe. Signal Smart. Trust LALIZAS with Gaelix Marine Service.

Ready to upgrade your onboard emergency communication?
Contact us today to configure the right system for your vessel and have it delivered anywhere in the world.

Visit Gaelix Marine Service – your partner in maritime safety.

22 august (08:15)

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