10 Waterproof integrity
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee - MSC/Circular.1039 – Guidelines for Shore-Based Maintenance of Satellite EPIRBs – (Adopted on 28 May 2002) - Annex – Guidelines for Shore-Based Maintenance of Satellite EPIRBs - - 10 Waterproof integrity

10 Waterproof integrity

  10.1 The satellite EPIRB should be inspected for any signs of damage or cracks to the casing, or of water ingress. Any damaged item should be replaced in accordance with the manufacturers recommended procedures.

  10.2 The satellite EPIRB should be tested for waterproof integrity at the end of the SBM. The equipment manufacturer may suggest an appropriate method to test the integrity of the EPIRB.

  10.3 One method involves immersing the equipment in hot water (20-30°C above ambient) for a period of 1 min. It can be readily seen if there are any problems with the seals, as the air inside the beacon expands and escapes as a stream of bubbles. This test should not be carried out with cool water, as the water may be drawn into the equipment without showing significant release of air bubbles.

  10.4 Satellite EPIRBs equipped with seawater switches should have this function disabled during the immersion test to prevent activation, unless the complete test is performed inside a screened room. This disabling may be achieved by immersing the EPIRB complete with a mounting bracket if the bracket includes an interlock to prevent activation before release. In some cases the EPIRB contains an inversion switch, so it will not be activated if immersed in the inverted position. The manufacturer should be consulted for specific guidance.

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