What is a requirement of an EPIRB?

An Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) must comply with specific technical standards to ensure its effectiveness in distress situations. One critical requirement for an EPIRB is that it operates on the 406 MHz frequency. This frequency allows for precise location identification and is compatible with the search and rescue satellite-aided tracking system. The 406 MHz beacons transmit distress signals to satellites, which then relay the information to rescue coordination centers, significantly improving the chances of a swift rescue.

The other options, while they may relate to various features of EPIRBs or preferences, do not represent mandatory standards. For instance, while waterproofing is a desirable quality for an EPIRB to ensure functionality in marine environments, it is not a defined compliance requirement. Similarly, the specification for being manufactured in the country of use or being solar-powered does not align with the essential operational standards set by international maritime regulations. The critical aspect that defines an EPIRB's functionality in emergencies is its adherence to Frequency and relevant technical performance criteria, making the requirement of being of the 406 MHz class paramount.