by Bent Arrow » 10 May 2019, 8:53 am
The idea that EPIRBS are just for boats, and PLB's are just for on land is a misdirection. For boats that are offshore, the legal requirement under SOLAS is for an EPIRB. A PLB does not meet that requirement. As explained above, PLB's typically don't float, and because of their compact size, transmit for a much shorter period of time than a EPIRB (typically around half the transmit time). Either can be used to send an SOS on terrestrial or marine situations.
The kicker is this, if you have a PLB on your belt, and you're offshore, your boat still needs an EPIRB to be compliant. Given most kayakers probably don't go offshore, there is no legal requirement for an EPIRB, and the PLB should be attached to the paddler, not the kayak. EPIRB's have automatic activation if submerged, PLB's do not. If you fall out but aren't in imminent danger, you dont want your EPIRB telling the world you need help.......