EPIRB antenna failures

The U.S. Coast Guard is recommending that vessel operators carefully inspect their EPIRB antennas for evidence of corrosion damage. During routine inspections of commercial fishing vessels, the Coast Guard discovered that a high percentage of antennas equipped to Satellite 406 Cat I EPIRB, product number 2754, made by ACR Electronics Inc., failed inspection.

Some of the antennas inspected showed rips or tears in their outer coating. Others showed no signs of perforation but bulged near the base. When unscrewed, extensive corrosion was discovered. ACR has acknowledged the problem and is committed to replacing the faulty antennas at no cost. If you discover that your EPIRB antenna is damaged, contact ACR Inc. customer service at 800-432-0227 for a replacement.

By Ocean Navigator