USCG Exam PracticeEPIRBs and distress signaling equipment
A fishing vessel 11 meters or more in length, with installed galley and berthing facilities, intends to operate on the high seas. Under 46 CFR §25.26-5, which EPIRB requirement applies?
- A. A manually activated Category 2 406 MHz EPIRB installed at the principal steering station
- ✓ A float-free, automatically activated Category 1 406 MHz EPIRB stowed so it will float free if the vessel sinksCorrect
- C. Either a Category 1 or Category 2 406 MHz EPIRB at the master's discretion
- D. No EPIRB is required if the vessel operates within radio communication range of shore
Why B is correct
46 CFR §25.26-5(a) requires a fishing vessel 11 meters or more in length (not meeting the exceptions in paragraphs (b) or (c)) operating on the high seas to carry a float-free, automatically activated Category 1 406 MHz EPIRB stowed so it will float free if the vessel sinks. The Category 2 option is only available for vessels under 11 meters or those with inherently buoyant construction per §25.26-5(b).
Cited:46 CFR §25.26-5