How it Works

The Shark Shield™ generates an electrical field that is detected by the shark through its sensory receptors, known as the Ampullae of Lorenzini, found on the snouts of many sharks. Once detected by the sharks' sensors, the field causes muscular spasms that result in the shark being deterred from the area.

The field is projected from the unit by two electrodes, which create an elliptical field that surrounds the user. Both electrodes must be immersed in the water for the field to be created. The electrode configuration depends on the model of the Shark Shield™ unit. This is explained in more detail under the product information.

In order for the Shark Shield™ to operate effectively the unit must be switched on when the user enters the water, left on for the duration of the users time in the water, then switched off as the user exits the water.

The Shark Shield™ does not work in fresh water.

Diver: Simulated Protective Field From Electrodes

Unit worn on the thigh with one electrode on scuba cylinder and a second
electrode encased in an antenna protruding from the ankle

Surfer: Simulated Protective Field From Electrodes

Unit worn on the ankle with an antenna incorporating the two electrodes.
The antenna attaches to a leg rope which attaches to the surfboard

Snorkeler: Simulated Protective Field From Electrodes

Two electrodes encased in the antenna which extends from the ankle

 

Testing

 

The electronic wave-form used in the Shark Shield™ is based on the technology of the Shark POD, an electronic shark deterrent product which was invented by the Natal Sharks Board of South Africa. The product was released on to the market in 1995 by POD Holdings Ltd, a joint venture company partly owned by the Natal Sharks Board. The Shark POD was subjected to years of testing prior to being launched, and has since been proven in the market place for several years.


Proof of the effect of this electronic wave-form lies in:

• The Natal Sharks Board test programme, which was carried out by a group of scientists including physicists, marine biologists, electronic engineers and a large number of professional divers. Tests were carried out over three years in a number of locations around the world.
• The SeaChange Technology test programme - Shark Shield™ products have been thoroughly tested in both South Africa and South Australia against Great Whites. Field testing involves attracting sharks using blood and offal, under stringently controlled conditions. The unit is turned on and placed into the water with fish bait attached, to attract the shark. The shark's behaviour is then observed and recorded as it investigates the food source. The testing conducted to date proves conclusively that sharks detest the effect the field has on them, and will keep a safe distance between themselves and the Shark Shield™. These tests involved independent marine biologists.
• SeaChange has received many testimonials from users of both the Shark POD (which is now no longer produced) and the Shark Shield™, reporting situations where the technology has successfully deterred a range of sharks under varying conditions.
• In addition to the above, Shark Shield™ has recently gained credibility by being issued with a NATO stock number. This involved a testing regime by the Australian military.

WARNING - SHARKS ARE DANGEROUS

Sharks can be dangerous and often unpredictable creatures. While great care has been taken, and extensive testing has been done, to develop and manufacture the Shark Shield™, it is simply impossible to guarantee that all sharks will be deterred under all circumstances. With or without the protection of a Shark Shield™, all sharks should be treated with respect and caution. Water sport participation in the presence of sharks is inherently dangerous. Any human activity in the water near sharks must always be considered as possessing a considerable degree of risk.