Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has published a draft of RSS-287, Issue 4, replacing the previous version from April 2024. This standard governs the certification of life-saving radio equipment, including EPIRBs (ships), ELTs (aircraft), PLBs (personal use), and Maritime Survivor Locator Devices (MSLDs).
The update introduces a mandatory transition period: for six months following publication, both Issue 3 and Issue 4 will be accepted. After this window, all equipment manufactured, imported, or sold in Canada must strictly adhere to the Issue 4 requirements.
The most significant technical changes center on Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and the classification of survivor devices:
ISED emphasizes a vital safety distinction regarding Maritime Survivor Locator Devices (MSLDs):
"MSLDs are designed for proximity alerting only and do not transmit distress signals to the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. They are not considered substitutes for EPIRBs or PLBs."
To prevent consumer confusion, new bilingual labeling mandates require MSLD packaging to explicitly state that the device is not an EPIRB.
Beyond technical specs, Issue 4 restructures the certification pathway. Applications for EPIRBs now require a verification letter from Transport Canada, while PLB applicants must secure a recommendation from the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS). This inter-agency coordination ensures that devices are not just radio-compliant, but operationally reliable for search and rescue missions.
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