FAQ – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons – EPIRB

Is it necessary to Register an EPIRB?

It is mandatory for a ship to register its Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). Registration ensures that search and rescue (SAR) authorities can quickly identify the vessel and contact the owner or operator in case of an emergency. Here’s why it’s necessary:

Regulatory Requirements:

• • • IMO/SOLAS Compliance – Ships subject to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention must carry and register an EPIRB as per Chapter IV (Radiocommunications).
    • National and International Regulations – Many flag states and maritime authorities require EPIRBs to be registered with the relevant authority (e.g., NOAA in the U.S., MCA in the UK).
    • GMDSS Requirement – EPIRBs are a crucial component of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and must be correctly programmed and registered.

Operational Importance:

• • • Faster Rescue Response: Registration provides SAR teams with essential details like vessel name, owner, emergency contacts, and voyage information.
    • Avoid False Alerts: If an EPIRB is accidentally activated, authorities can quickly verify and prevent unnecessary SAR operations.
    • Legal Compliance: Failure to register an EPIRB may result in fines or non-compliance penalties.

How to Register an EPIRB:

• • • EPIRBs are registered with the vessel’s flag state authority or a recognized international database.
    • Information includes vessel details, MMSI number, contact information, and emergency contacts.
    • Registration must be updated when there is a change in vessel ownership, contact details, or after battery replacement.

For Nigerian-flagged vessels:

EPIRB registration is handled by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Responsible Authority:

📍 NIMASA – Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency
Website: www.nimasa.gov.ng

How to Register an EPIRB with NIMASA

While NIMASA does not have a fully automated online EPIRB registration portal (like NOAA or AMSA), here’s the typical process:

1. Submit an EPIRB Registration Form
   This is usually part of the GMDSS equipment documentation submitted during:
   • • Vessel registration or flagging,
     • Safety surveys,
     • Radio equipment inspection.
2. Information Required Includes:
   • • Beacon Hex ID (15-character hexadecimal ID)
     • Vessel name, IMO number, call sign
     • Owner/operator details
     • MMSI (if applicable)
     • Emergency contact information
3. Where to Submit:
   • • Submit to the Radio Inspection/Maritime Safety Department at NIMASA.
     • Often done through a licensed radio surveyor or GMDSS installer.
4. Record Updating:
   • • Update is required upon ownership change, MMSI reassignment, reprogramming, or beacon replacement.