On April 2, 2024, the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED has update and published RSS-287, Issue 3, “Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT), Personal Locator Beacons (PLB), and Maritime Survivor Locator Devices (MSLD)”, setting out certification requirements for radio apparatus operating in the following frequencies: 406 MHz, 121.5 MHz, 243 MHz, 161.975 MHz, 162.025 MHz, and 156.525 MHz.

The main goals for this update was to introduce two key points. First Automatic identification systems capability (AISs) on 161.975 MHz and 162.025 MHz operating frequencies for EPIRBs, PLBs, and MSLDs. Secondly, closed loop digital selective calling (DSC) on 156.525 MHz operating frequency for MSLDs.

There were other major changes that included adding references for automatic identification system (AIS) and digital selective calling (DSC). Introduction of AIS and DSC frequencies. Removed section 2.3.5 Transport Canada (Marine Safety) Documents and replaced with section 3.2.3, Transport Canada requirements. Section 2.3.6 National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) Document and moved the text to section 3.4.3 in NSS requirements. Sections 3, 4, and 6 have been modified to separate out requirements by device type. Plus editorial changes and further clarifications as deemed appropriate.

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