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EPIRB
EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) are satellite emergency beacons that send a distress alert and location to search and rescue when a vessel is in serious trouble. This category is for boat owners and offshore operators in Australia who need an emergency beacon that works beyond mobile coverage. Safe-Life Australia supplies EPIRB emergency beacon solutions within our broader Emergency Beacon range.
Important: EPIRBs are not medical alarms
EPIRBs are marine distress beacons. They are not personal medical alarms, aged care alarm systems, or in-home-care emergency devices.
If you need an emergency alert device for a person (rather than a vessel), you may be looking for a different product category.
How do EPIRBs work?
What is an EPIRB?
An EPIRB is a satellite-based emergency beacon designed for marine use. When activated, it transmits a distress signal that helps rescue services identify the beacon and locate the vessel.
How does an EPIRB send an emergency alert?
- The EPIRB is activated (manually, or automatically depending on model and mounting).
- The beacon transmits a distress signal via satellite.
- Rescue coordination systems receive the alert and beacon identification.
- GPS location is included when the EPIRB has GPS, improving position accuracy.
- Search and rescue services respond to the reported location.
Who are EPIRBs for?
- Boats travelling offshore or beyond reliable mobile reception
- Recreational boat owners who need a marine emergency beacon
- Commercial marine operators
- People planning longer passages where help may be delayed
Types of products in this category
- Marine EPIRB – A beacon intended for boats and marine incidents.
- GPS EPIRB – An EPIRB with integrated GPS for faster, more accurate location reporting.
- Automatic activation EPIRB – A model designed to activate automatically in specific marine emergency conditions (model dependent).
If you are comparing beacon types, you can also review:
Personal Locator Beacons (PLB),
Satellite Communicators and
Man Overboard Beacons.
Key EPIRB features and what they mean
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Satellite distress signalling | Designed to work without mobile phone coverage |
| Marine use | Intended for vessel-based emergencies |
| GPS capability | Models with GPS provide more accurate position data |
| Identification | Broadcasts a unique beacon identity to assist rescue coordination |
| Standby life | Designed for long periods of readiness and emergency operation |
Why choose Safe-Life for EPIRBs?
- Australian supplier of emergency beacons and satellite safety devices
- Range focused on marine and remote-area distress signalling equipment
- Clear guidance on choosing between EPIRBs, PLBs, satellite communicators, and man overboard beacons
- Part of a broader Emergency Beacon range supported by local knowledge
EPIRB frequently asked questions
What does EPIRB stand for?
EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.
What is an EPIRB used for?
An EPIRB is used to send a satellite distress alert and location for marine emergencies involving a vessel.
Do EPIRBs work without mobile reception?
Yes. EPIRBs use satellite distress signalling and do not rely on the mobile network.
What is the difference between an EPIRB and a PLB?
An EPIRB is typically for a vessel and marine incidents, while a PLB is carried by an individual for personal emergency location.
Should I choose an EPIRB with GPS?
If available, GPS improves the accuracy of the reported position and can reduce time to locate the distress signal.
Are EPIRBs medical alarms or aged care alarms?
No. EPIRBs are marine distress beacons and are not designed to replace medical alert devices or personal emergency response systems.
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