IEC 61097-2:2021

Overview

IEC 61097-2:2021 specifies operational and performance requirements, type‑testing methods, and required test results for Cospas‑Sarsat Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz. Intended to support SOLAS obligations and GMDSS implementation, the standard defines minimum technical characteristics for EPIRBs (including a non‑float‑free EPIRB option - Annex C) and takes precedence where it differs from IEC 60945. IEC 61097-2:2021 incorporates IMO Resolution MSC.471(101), ITU Radio Regulations and Recommendation ITU‑R M.633, and reflects general IMO requirements (A.694(17)).

Key Topics

• Performance requirements: operational behavior, prevention of inadvertent activation, immersion and buoyancy, activation and self‑test, battery end‑of‑life indication, ergonomics, and labelling.
• Transmitted signal & formats: requirements for 406 MHz distress signal, distress message memory and beacon identification code.
• Auxiliary locating features: 121.5 MHz homing signal, AIS locating signal, GNSS receiver and position reporting, and Return Link Service (RLS).
• Float‑free arrangements: design, automatic/manual release, tests and labelling; Annex C covers non‑float‑free EPIRBs.
• Power and battery: minimum battery performance, expiry date marking, reverse polarity protection and testing requirements.
• Antenna & RF characteristics: antenna performance and transmitter characteristics aligned with ITU recommendations.
• Environmental & durability testing: temperature, icing, wind, shock, vibration, immersion, corrosion, solar radiation and ruggedness (many tests reference IEC 60945 procedures).
• Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC): interference immunity and emissions to ensure reliable operation in maritime environments.
• Type‑approval & testing procedures: preparation, test sequences, performance checks, and required test results for certification bodies and test labs.
• Documentation & labelling: required user manuals, installation guidance and clear equipment labelling.

Applications and Who Uses It

• EPIRB manufacturers and designers - to design compliant 406 MHz beacons and float‑free mechanisms.
• Test laboratories & certification bodies - for type‑approval testing and verification of performance and environmental resilience.
• Shipyards, vessel operators and maritime equipment installers - to select, install and maintain compliant EPIRBs under SOLAS/GMDSS rules.
• Maritime regulators and flag states - to establish compliance criteria and approval processes.
• Search and rescue authorities - to understand device capabilities (GNSS reporting, AIS, homing, RLS) for rescue coordination.

Related Standards

• IEC 60945 (maritime navigation and radio equipment environmental standards) - where differences occur, IEC 61097-2:2021 takes precedence.
• IMO Resolution MSC.471(101), IMO A.694(17)
• ITU Radio Regulations and ITU‑R M.633 (transmitter technical characteristics)

Keywords: IEC 61097-2:2021, GMDSS, EPIRB 406 MHz, Cospas‑Sarsat, SOLAS compliance, EPIRB type‑testing, GNSS, AIS, RLS, IEC 60945.