Mersey lifejacket manufacturer to launch new product that will aid rescue missions

Marine inflatable lifejackets manufacturer, International Safety Products (ISP), is launching a series of new products fitted with self-alerting systems to aid rescue missions.

Bootle-based ISP has partnered with engineering and maritime communications specialist, Ocean Signal, to integrate the rescueME MOB1 device into three models of lifejackets.

The rescueME MOB1 is the world’s smallest automatic identification system and activates when a lifejacket is inflated. communicating with vessels within a five-mile radius and also linking to a rescue satellite network, helping to pinpoint the location of the user.

ISP commercial director Geoff Billington said it is the first time an AIS has been built into an ISP lifejacket as a standard design.

The technology now comes fitted inside ISP’s Challenger Worksafe Pro, Interlock 275 and 170 Newton leisure lifejackets. They will be officially launched at the upcoming METS maritime trade show in Amsterdam.

“METS provides an excellent platform to launch a new range of lifejacket models with integrated AIS,” said Mr Billington.

“The event is expected to attract more than 20,000 maritime industry professionals, who are specifically coming to see innovation and exchange new ideas.

“Supplying lifejackets with standard AIS is a new concept in the leisure and commercial maritime sectors. We have incorporated the technology into three very separate lifejacket models catering for different areas across these markets.

“The rescueME MOB1 device is an extremely clever piece of kit. It is the world’s smallest AIS Man OverBoard system with a DSC (Digital Selective Calling) transmitter.

“DSC is a standard for sending pre-defined digital messages via the medium frequency, high frequency and very high frequency maritime radio systems. It is a core part of the Global Maritime Distress Safety System .

“The development is the result of our long-standing relationship with Ocean Signal. It benefits from our experience and expertise in each respective field. Essentially, it brings together the best in British lifejacket manufacturing and maritime communication technology into one seamless design. »