FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is Beach Panel & Controls?
Beach Panel & Controls, Inc. designs and manufacturers electrical control panels and maritime security products. The company has provided quality engineered electrical control systems, consulting services and security products for the government and commercial industries since 1995. The company is family-owned and headquartered in Chesapeake, Va. The location in Hampton Roads provides proximity to one of the largest military complexes on the East Coast and one of the largest ports in the U.S.

The address is 912 Ventures Way, Chesapeake, VA 23320. Phone: 757-312-0574; Fax: 757-312-0674; e-mail: info@beachpanels.com; Web: www.beachpanels.com

2. Who is your largest customer?
BP&C provided a security plan, engine room control console automation upgrade and service for many of Military Sealift Command vessels. The company is the only provider of access-control perimeter security systems for the MSC fleet and also been approved by NAVSEA and MSC headquarters.

3. Do BP&C products meet all major marine regulatory bodies?
We build systems that comply with all major marine regulations for vessels and/or port facilities.

4. Does BP&C install its products?
We provide convenient worldwide support, and we can install at any location, even at sea.

5. Does BP&C provide training programs for its systems?
We provide educational support for our products in a variety of formats such as: CD, text, online support or hands-on training.

6. What is ISPS code?
International Ship and Port Security code enables the restriction and detection of security threats for vessels and port facilities around the world. This code applies to cargo, passenger vessels of 500 gross tonnage and greater and offshore drilling units. IMO mandated this code as of July 1, 2004, and an estimated 43,000 vessels will require a security plan to be in compliance.

7. What is the IMO?
The International Maritime Organization is responsible for shipping safety and improves marine pollution.

8. What ships require security?
IMO mandates that all ships exceeding 500 gross tons must have a security plan. Even if a ship, boat or yacht does not fall under the ISPS code requirements, a security plan is recommended for protection. BP&C provides security systems that meet requirements and needs for ship owners, operators and port facilities that comply with all major regulatory bodies.

9. Can BP&C customize my security needs?
BP&C system engineers can design a customized system based on each vessel’s size, electrical system, requirements and needs.

10. What warranty coverage if available on BP&C products or systems?
BP&C warranty covers all parts for 1 year after delivery of system.  The warrenty can extend to cover the system and installation for one year after installation if BP&C installs and commissions the system.

11. Does BP&C provide onsite engineering?
We are an original equipment manufacturer and our customers have direct access to our staff of engineers and technicians. Our engineers stay involved from design through fabrication, installation, testing and completion of the finished product.

12. What other marine electrical products and design does BP&C provide?
BP&C has engineered, designed and fabricated many of the following:

• Switchboards
• Whirly Cranes & Winches
• Generators & Controls
• Propulsion Automation & Controls
• Interior Communications
• BOW Thruster Controls
• Hydraulic System Controls
• Elevator Controls
• CCTV
• Electromechanical Controls
• Marine Distress Alarms
• Cargo Boom Controls
• AC & DC Drives
• Monitoring & Alarm Systems
• Refrigeration & AC Plant Controls

13. Can BP&C products work with existing electrical systems?
All electrical products and security systems can be integrated into existing systems.

14. Does the security system require additional manpower?
The system is designed to be an unattended, event based system.  This means no operator is required to sit and monitor the system.  The system will let you know when something happens.  The system is easy to use and will allow a watch stander to quickly respond to any alarms that occur.  With the ease of use and event based operation a watch stander can truly be multitasking.