User's Manual

Page 3
2 MANDATORY REGISTRATION
You must register your EPIRB with the appropriate authorities.
Failure to register may slow the rescue and lead to loss of life.
In the USA failure to register may result in a fine.
In the UK you are legally required to register your EPIRB.
2.1 Overview
Every EPIRB is pre-programmed with a unique identity before it reaches the
customer. This is done by the manufacturer or, in some cases, the distributor. The
identity includes a 3 digit country code. This is the country that takes responsibility for
storing that particular EPIRB’s registration details. In most cases this is the country to
which the vessel is flagged. The country programmed into your EPIRB can be found
from its rear identity label. You must register with this country.
MV BELLANA
EPIRB 1
1D1400063F81FE0
FLAG 232 G BRITAIN
SERIALISED 000012
CATEGORY 1 – AUTO
Class 2 –20/+55 C (-4/+131 F)
When you activate your EPIRB in an emergency, the nearest maritime search and
rescue coordination centre (MRCC) will receive the message and decode the country
code (e.g. 232). They will then access the registration database for that country and
expect to find details of your vessel, its radio equipment and who to contact. If they fail
to find this information, this may slow down any rescue.
2.2 How to register
Three registration forms are provided, two are for future use and one must be
completed immediately. These forms are pre-printed with your EPIRB’s identity; all
you have to do is complete details of your vessel and provide contact numbers.
Wherever possible the forms are also pre-printed with the correct mailing address and
a faxback number. If your form does not have a mailing address, contact your
supplier. When you have completed the form, you can choose to fax it or mail it.
It is usual to receive confirmation when you register. In the UK and USA you will also
receive a “Decal” sticker which you must fit to the EPIRB itself. The Decal is proof of
registration. Not having a Decal is an offence.
Vessel
Unique
Identity
Number
(UIN)
Country