SART
The Search and Rescue Transponder is an essential distress locating device used on ships and lifeboats to assist in search and rescue operations. It helps rescuers locate survivors by responding to incoming radar signals and displaying a series of dots or lines on the rescuer’s radar screen. When activated, the SART interacts with Radar signals from nearby vessels or aircraft, providing a clear indication of the survivor’s location. SART is a mandatory safety device under regulations from the International Maritime Organization as per the SOLAS Convention.
Need SART Service, Testing, or Battery Replacement?
If your vessel requires SART installation, annual testing, battery replacement, troubleshooting, or equipment supply, our certified marine engineers are ready to assist. We provide fast and reliable SART service across UAE ports and international shipping routes, ensuring your vessel’s rescue equipment remains fully operational, compliant, and ready for emergency situations.
Contact our team today to arrange onboard service or request a quotation.
Our SART Technical Services
Our experienced marine engineers provide complete SART services for vessels operating in UAE ports and international waters, including:
- SART installation and commissioning
- Annual testing and inspection
- Battery replacement and expiry checks
- Performance testing and verification
- Troubleshooting and fault diagnosis
- Inspection of mounting and storage arrangements
- Supply of SART units and spare parts
We ensure your SART is fully operational and ready for emergency use at all times.
Importance of SART in Emergency Situations
The Search and Rescue Transponder plays a vital role in maritime safety by:
- Assisting rescuers in locating lifeboats or survival craft
- Enhancing visibility on radar screens
- Supporting quick search and rescue response
- Increasing survival chances during emergencies at sea
- Ensuring compliance with international safety regulations
A properly functioning SART is critical for effective rescue operations.
Common SART Issues on Ships
SART units may develop issues over time due to storage conditions or environmental exposure, such as:
- Expired or weak battery
- Failure to respond to radar signals
- Physical damage or corrosion
- Faulty activation switch
- Improper mounting or storage
Our marine technicians can quickly inspect, test, and service SART units onboard, ensuring reliability during emergencies.
What does SART stand for?
SART stands for Search and Rescue Transponder.
How is a SART activated?
A SART automatically activates when it detects incoming radar signals from search and rescue vessels or aircraft.
Is a SART battery-operated?
Yes, a marine SART is powered by batteries, which generally have a shelf life of several years to ensure readiness during emergencies at sea.
Is a SART mandatory on all vessels?
Yes, under international maritime regulations, certain classes of vessels are mandated to carry a SART as part of their onboard safety equipment.
How should a SART be mounted?
A SART should be installed at a position offering an unobstructed view of the sky and surrounding sea, usually at the vessel’s highest point, to ensure optimal operation during search and rescue scenarios.
When should a SART be used?
A SART should be activated when a vessel or survival craft is in distress to transmit a locating signal that alerts nearby ships and search and rescue units.
What is the range of a SART?
A SART emits a radar signal that provides precise location information, enabling search and rescue units to accurately pinpoint the position of a distressed vessel or survival craft.
Can a SART be manually activated?
No, a SART is engineered to automatically activate when it detects radar transmissions from nearby search and rescue vessels or aircraft.
Can a SART be used in conjunction with other distress signaling devices?
Yes, a SART can be used alongside other distress alerting systems, such as EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and VHF communication equipment, to enhance the effectiveness of search and rescue operations at sea.
What information does a SART transmit?
A SART emits a distinctive radar signal that provides accurate positional information, assisting search and rescue units in locating a distressed vessel or survival craft with precision
Conclusion
SART are vital components of maritime safety systems, offering a dependable method of alerting search and rescue units and ensuring rapid assistance during distress situations at sea. Familiarity with their operation and compliance requirements is essential for all vessel operators and crew members to maintain safety readiness.
Aramaic International Marine Service
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A reliable NavCom solutions provider with an established presence across the UAE, ASIA, EUROPE and AFRICA offering advanced marine navigation and communication systems that ensure vessels remain fully connected, SOLAS-compliant, and operationally efficient across global trade routes.