Consultation on the merchant shipping (EPIRB and PLB registration) regulations 2025
In accordance with international requirements, the MCA maintains an online portal for registration of UK coded 406 MHz EPIRBs and PLBs. This MSN explains all the registration requirements.
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This consultation seeks your views on the draft of The Merchant Shipping (EPIRB and PLB Registration) (Radiocommunications) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 (“the new regulations”).
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The new regulations have six aims. These are:
a. To update and replace the existing instrument: The Merchant Shipping (EPIRB Registration) Regulations 2000;
b. To reflect changes in technology and improve response timings by updating the registration requirements for EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons);
c. To introduce the requirement to register PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) used in the maritime environment;
d. To strengthen sanctions for breach of the registration requirements;
e. To introduce these changes for UK flagged ships and hovercraft (and include watercraft falling within the scope of the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023);
f. To make amendments to other Statutory Instruments.