Ocean Signal recognised for world’s smallest man overboard device

Ocean Signal, a British marine communications and safety at sea specialist, has launched the world’s smallest AIS man overboard (MOB) device with integrated digital selective calling (DCS) transmitter, receiving a DAME award nomination. 

According to the brand, the Ocean Signal rescueME MOB1 is around 30% smaller than competing products making it more practical when required in emergency situations. It’s available preinstalled on lifejackets aboard, or it can be purchased separately and manually installed on a number of lifejackets with welded-in bladders.

Ocean Signal announced that the technology has earned a DAME award nomination in the ‘Life Saving and Safety Equipment Category’, with the winner announced at the upcoming 2015 Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS).

The device is activated automatically upon inflation of the lifejacket with the first signal sent within 15 seconds using two different forms of communication in order to increase the chances of rescue.

Knowing that rescue is typically most likely from the casualty’s own vessel, upon activation the MOB1 transmits an alert to all AIS receivers and AIS enabled plotters within a five-mile radius using an integrated GPS tracker to produce a precise location.

Secondly, the device is able to trigger a Direct Selective Calling (DSC) alarm, subject to differing international regulations. These regulations mean that the casualty is either able to contact the vessel itself, or to contact many at a time. The device also comes equipped with a high-intensity strobe light to attract attention. 

METS will mark the 25^th anniversary of the DAME awards.

For more information, visit Ocean Signal.