SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist

SOLAS Chapter IV Regulation 20.8 requires monthly inspection of all EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and SARTs (Search and Rescue Transponders) aboard SOLAS vessels. The EPIRB must be registered with Cospas-Sarsat through the vessel's flag state authority, and the MMSI or hex ID must match registration records. An unregistered or incorrectly registered EPIRB will transmit an alert that cannot be attributed to a vessel, delaying SAR response. Battery expiry and HRU service dat

  • Industry: Transportation & Logistics
  • Frequency: Quarterly
  • Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
  • Role: Radio Officer
  • Total Items: 20
  • Compliance: SOLAS 1974 as amended, IMO Resolution MSC, ISM Code

EPIRB Registration and Identification

Verify the EPIRB hex ID is registered with the flag state Cospas-Sarsat authority and registration data is current.

  • EPIRB 15-character hex ID decoded and confirmed registered to this vessel?
  • Registration record shows current vessel name, IMO number, and emergency contact?
  • MMSI number on EPIRB label matches vessel radio station license?
  • EPIRB hex ID number:

EPIRB HRU and Float-Free Stowage

Like liferafts, EPIRBs stowed in float-free brackets must have a functional HRU and correctly routed painter or lanyard.

  • EPIRB HRU service date not expired (check label on HRU)?
  • EPIRB mounting bracket in AUTO position (not MANUAL)?
  • EPIRB self-test light flashes within 48 hours of this inspection?
  • HRU service expiry date:

EPIRB Battery and Activation Element

Verify battery expiry date and activation element service date on each EPIRB.

  • EPIRB battery expiry date not exceeded?
  • Activation mechanism (water switch or manual) free of corrosion?
  • EPIRB battery expiry date:
  • Last full servicing at approved service station:

SART Self-Test and Condition

Radar SART monthly test per SOLAS IV/20.8 includes self-test button activation and response check.

  • SART self-test performed; LED sweep confirms operational status?
  • SART battery expiry date not exceeded?
  • SART stowage bracket (near survival craft or float-free position) secure?
  • SART self-test result (Pass/Fail):

Monthly EPIRB/SART Inspection Record

Complete the monthly inspection log entry per ship SMS requirements and SOLAS IV/20.

  • All EPIRBs and SARTs on board inspected this month?
  • Any deficiencies found (describe or None):
  • Number of EPIRBs / SARTs inspected:
  • Safety officer signature and inspection date:

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Why Use This SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist?

This solas chapter iii epirb & sart annual inspection checklist helps transportation & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for radio officer professionals, this checklist covers 20 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: quarterly.

Ensures compliance with SOLAS 1974 as amended, IMO Resolution MSC, ISM Code. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist?

A SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist is a standardized inspection form used by radio officer to ensure consistent transportation & logistics operations. It contains 27 inspection points organized into 5 sections. FREE PDF - SOLAS Chapter IV EPIRB and SART monthly inspection checklist. Covers Cospas-Sarsat EPIRB registration status, hydrostatic release unit service date, battery/activation expiry, and SART self-test procedure per SOLAS IV/20.8.3.

How often should I use this transportation & logistics checklist?

This checklist is designed to be completed quarterly. Regular use ensures compliance with SOLAS 1974 as amended and IMO Resolution MSC and helps identify issues before they become problems.

Can I download this SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist as a PDF?

Yes, you can download this checklist as a FREE PDF for printing or offline use. The checklist includes 27 fields across 5 sections and typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete.

What compliance standards does this checklist cover?

This checklist helps ensure compliance with SOLAS 1974 as amended, IMO Resolution MSC, ISM Code. Following these standards protects your organization and ensures best practices.

How do I complete this transportation & logistics inspection checklist?

Begin by completing the header fields for Facility / Location, Inspection Date, Inspector Name, and Permit / Reference Number. Work through each of the 5 sections, marking items Yes or No as applicable. Add notes for any issues found. Finally, complete the footer fields and add your signature. The entire process takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

What are the key sections in this transportation & logistics checklist?

This transportation & logistics checklist is organized into 5 key sections: EPIRB Registration and Identification, EPIRB HRU and Float-Free Stowage, EPIRB Battery and Activation Element, SART Self-Test and Condition, Monthly EPIRB/SART Inspection Record. Each section contains specific inspection points that radio officer must verify. The structured layout ensures nothing is missed during transportation & logistics inspections and makes the process efficient, typically taking 20-30 minutes to complete.

Who should use this SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is primarily designed for radio officer working in transportation & logistics operations. However, it is also valuable for quality assurance teams, safety officers, compliance managers, and supervisors who need to verify that transportation & logistics standards are being met. Organizations of all sizes can benefit from using this SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist to maintain consistency and accountability.

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