A package of updates has been drafted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) which includes bringing PLBs under regulations that already apply to Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs).
The changes require people to register current and new PLBs with the MCA – online and free of charge – if they are carried on a UK flagged vessel, hovercraft or mechanically propelled watercraft, such as jet skis, wherever they may be.
The proposals do not apply to PLBs on unpowered craft such as paddleboards, kayaks and canoes. However, the MCA encourages the registration of PLBs used in these instances.
Registration means that when a PLB is activated, HM Coastguard can use the details supplied, such as emergency contacts, to gain crucial information to support rescue efforts and send the best resources to help.
When PLBs and EPIRBs are registered, false alarms can be traced more efficiently, helping to avoid rescue teams being sent unnecessarily into potentially dangerous conditions.
The regulatory package also reflects changes in technology and extends registration obligations to hovercraft and other types of watercraft.
Linda Goulding, UK Distress and Security Beacon Registry Manager, said
Just 15 minutes spent registering a PLB online could make all the difference to being found and recovered safely from a life-threatening situation.
These proposals would require action by anyone using a current or new PLB on an applicable vessel, so we are consulting again for four weeks to make sure everyone gets a chance to have their say.
PLBs broadcast a location on the same 406MHz frequency as bigger EPIRBs but are designed to be worn on the body rather than on a vessel or liferaft and are always manually activated.
To find out more, visit Consultation on the Merchant Shipping (EPIRB and PLB Registration) (Radiocommunications) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 – GOV.UK
Email responses to [email protected] by 9 November 2025.
To register a PLB or EPIRB, visit https//www.gov.uk/register-406-beacons
Background
PLB rescue case studies
This update relates to the UK revoking and replacing the Merchant Shipping (EPIRB Registration) Regulations 2000 with the Merchant Shipping (EPIRB and PLB Registration) (Radiocommunications) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 to include updated registration requirements for EPIRBs and introduce new registration requirements for PLBs.
The proposed Regulations will also amend other Statutory Instruments, including the Merchant Shipping (Radiocommunications) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 and the Merchant Shipping (Watercraft) Order 2023.
These amendments will include the implementation of discrete changes to international safety requirements under SOLAS Chapter IV and necessary changes as a consequence of the proposed Regulations being introduced.