The present document applies to requirements for avalanche beacons. Avalanche beacons are portable radio systems used for locating avalanche victims, for the purpose of direct rescue, i.e. for rescue by comrades not hit by the avalanche.

The present document is applicable for avalanche beacons operating on the frequency 457 kHz.

The present document is intended to cover the provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC (R&TTE Directive) [1]: article 3.3e, which states that radio equipment within the scope of the present document shall be so constructed that: "it supports certain features ensuring access to emergency services".

In addition to the present document, and other ENs (e.g. EN 300 718-2 [7]) that specify technical requirements in respect of essential requirements under other parts of article 3 of the R&TTE Directive [1] may apply to equipment within the scope of the present document.

NOTE: A list of such ENs is included on the ETSI web site at http://www.newapproach.org/.