EPIRB precautionary bulletin

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 10 April 2014
  • Generated on 7 February 2026
  • IMCA SF 05/14
  • 1 minute read

It has come to IMCA’s attention that there are a very small number of instances where certain EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) have failed a self-test procedure. 

 A consequence of such failure may mean the EPIRB will not operate in an emergency situation.

The affected devices are designed and manufactured by Standard Communications Pty Ltd and they are marketed globally under the GME brand.

More details here.

Latest Safety Flashes:

Dropped GRP cover during subsea lifting

A vessel was lifting and relocating a Pipe Line End Manifold (PLEM) GRP Top Cover when the load became detached and dropped approx. 7m.

Read more
Umbilical support frame made contact with passing vehicle on public road

Whilst travelling, a contractor transporting umbilical support frames (USFs) made contact with a passing vehicle as one of the frames dropped down.

Read more
Petrol driven equipment left stored in an emergency generator room

Stored snowblower created an unnecessary fire and explosion risk, as well as blocking access around critical equipment.

Read more
Mechanic got burns due to fire in portable generator

During refuelling, petrol (gasoline) spilled around generator and ignited.

Read more
Some positive findings and good practices

Collection of some positive findings and good practices.

Read more

IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.

The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.

All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.

IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.

The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.

Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.