CCR  |   DMR  |  2020-07-07

Entel first to meet new MED/5.20 onboard fire fighter standard for UHF and VHF radios

Source: Entel
Curated by: Gert Jan Wolf - Editor-in Chief for The Critical Communications Review

Based on recommendations from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), and endorsed by the EU, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has reinterpreted the requirements and set ATEX IIB as the minimum new standard for all new Fire fighter Radios on-board EU flagged vessels.

From 3 October 2022, only Wheelmark approved Fire fighter Radios will comply with the new Marine Equipment Directive (MED) standard and meet the requirement to ensure all equipment is appropriate for the safeguarding of life and assets in extreme conditions and life-threatening situations.

Entel, a market leader in the design and manufacturing of commercial-grade maritime onboard communications, will be the first to offer a new range of MED compliant radios. Entel’s class-leading distinctive red bodied DTEx Series Fire fighter Radios are available in ATEX IIB, and for vessels requiring a more stringent gas rating, there is also an ATEX IIC variant.

The Entel DTEx Series Fire fighter Radios will available from April 2020, in both VHF or UHF model variants to future proof and ensure continued conformance. The UHF variant also supports Digital mode which gives significantly better audio, extended range and longer battery life in comparison to analogue radios.