NSCV sub-section C7B: Communications equipment

NSCV Part C: Design and construction

Section C7: Equipment

Sub-section C7B: Communications equipment

Commenced 1 January 2021: Sub-section C7B: Communications equipment (PDF 448 KB)

This edition 1.5 (1 January 2021) includes alternative arrangements for EPIRBs on small (<7.5m) vessels operating in open waters (offshore operations (B waters) or restricted offshore operations (C waters)). 

The changes implement the results of feedback from, and consultation with, industry regarding the practicality of installing float-free EPIRBs on small vessels.

Operators of vessels less than 7.5m in measured length, that operate in open waters more than 2nm from land, and do not have level flotation, now have the option to choose to carry either:

• A float-free EPIRB, or
• If all persons on board are wearing a lifejacket - any GNSS (GPS) equipped EPIRB that complies with Australian Standard 4280.1:2017.

This edition also introduces several new definitions relation to EPIRBs:

• Float-free EPIRB
• Float-free bracket
• GNSS equipped EPIRB
• Level flotation
• Water-activated EPIRB

NOTE: This standard does not include requirements for EPIRBs that are packed in liferafts. Refer to NSCV C7A – Safety Equipment for liferaft requirements.

• AMSA Beacons page
• My Boat
• National Law Act and regulations
• Marine orders 
• Exemptions
• National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV)
• Generic equivalent solutions (GES)
• Guidance notices and factsheets for DCV owners and operators
• Uniform Shipping Laws code 
• Marine VHF radio operators handbook
• Marine radio operators handbook
• GMDSS handbook
• International regulations for preventing collisions at sea, 1972 (COLREGs)
• AMSA Beacons page