(LANHAM, Md.) — McMurdo has launched an online resource center at info.mcmurdogroup.com/AIS-US-Coast-Guard-Mandate.html to help impacted vessel operators comply with the requirements of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) automatic identification system (AIS) mandate, which becomes effective March 1, 2016.
“Many vessel operators are still learning about AIS and there is still a fair amount of confusion about how it works, as well as which AIS device is appropriate for their vessel,” said Randel Maestre, McMurdo chief marketing officer.
The resource center features frequently asked questions and answers about the USCG mandate, information about McMurdo compliant products, special offers and a McMurdo AIS dealer locator.
The USCG mandate requires that certain categories of commercial vessels, such as fishing boats, tugs and ferries operating in U.S. territorial waters, install a USCG-certified AIS transceiver. Some categories of vessels are required to install a Class A type transceiver and others an AIS Class B type device. Failure to have a properly installed AIS by next March 1 could result in a fine of as much as $25,000.
The following McMurdo devices are available from McMurdo dealers to help vessel operators comply with the new rule. A fleet pricing upgrade package is also available.
SmartFind M5 AIS Class A transponder
Provides automated AIS communications from "ship to ship" and "ship to shore," transmitting and receiving vessel, voyage and safety-related information. Features AIS MOB SART alarm to aid in man overboard recovery.
SmartFind M10 and M15 AIS
Integrating with a wide range of navigation systems, dedicated chart plotters and PC/Mac software, the SmartFind AIS electronics range brings important safety advantages of AIS to a wider range of vessels.
For more information about McMurdo SmartFind AIS electronics and other McMurdo search and rescue products, visit www.mcmurdomarine.com.
