M-Class AIS Beacons Adopt a Revised Set of Guidelines
In a significant move towards enhancing maritime safety, Europe has introduced the Class M standard for personal AIS (Automatic Identification System) beacons. Effective from January 1, 2025, this regulation, outlined in European regulation ECC/DEC/(22)02, focuses on Man Overboard (MOB) devices and requires them to incorporate advanced features for improved signaling, tracking, and accuracy.
The Class M standard emphasizes rapid alerting and reliable tracking, crucial for personal safety in maritime environments. These beacons, designed for MOB situations, include GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) for accurate positioning and an internal DSC (Digital Selective Calling) transmitter to enhance signaling and tracking capabilities over longer distances.
Two beacons, in particular, have been confirmed to meet the new Class M standard. The Dräger Man Over Board sMRT ALERT beacon features automatic activation upon water immersion or manual activation via a large button. It is among the first to achieve Class M compliance and offers NFC capability for smartphone connectivity, making it easier for users to manage its settings and updates[1].
Another noteworthy product is the Wescom Group sMRT V300 Man Overboard Beacon, identified as one of the first products designed to comply with the Europe-wide Class M standard. It includes GNSS and internal DSC functionality for improved performance[3].
The rescueME MOB2, the world's smallest AIS MOB device with integrated DSC, is another example of a Class M compliant beacon. Designed for easy integration into lifejackets, it automatically activates upon inflation and features a high-intensity strobe light for enhanced visibility[4].
The new standard mandates that only Class M DSC MOB devices and Mobile AtoN (Automatic Identification System Transponders) will be permitted to use AIS Channels 1 & 2 in certain European countries[2]. This regulation underscores the importance of these advanced beacons for maritime safety and highlights the trend towards meeting the newest safety and communication requirements under the Class M standard.
With the new Class M standard, sailors in Europe can rest assured that they are better protected in emergency situations. The Class M AIS beacon should be considered standard kit for sailing, regardless of the number of people on board or weather conditions.
- The Class M standard not only requires advanced features in MOB devices but also promotes the use of smart technology, as evident in the NFC capability of the Dräger Man Over Board sMRT ALERT beacon.
- The trend towards meeting the newest safety and communication requirements under the Class M standard is evident in the Wescom Group sMRT V300 Man Overboard Beacon, which features built-in GNSS and DSC technology, putting it among the gadgets that are revolutionizing maritime safety.
