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 does the SOLAS Chapter III EPIRB & SART Annual Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 20 inspection items across 5 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. It is designed for transportation & logistics operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed quarterly. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

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

This checklist is designed for Radio Officer professionals in the transportation & logistics industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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