B737-800
Flight Attendant Current
Communication Breakdown; Troubleshooting
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; General Maintenance Action
Company Policy; Human Factors
During my equipment check I noticed that the ELT in G2 was OFF (it should be in the ARM position)I notified the CA (Captain) and explained the discrepancy. He said he would call Maintenance. I'm not sure whom he contacted but they told him 'If the FAs (Flight Attendants) need to use it; they just turn it on; it's fine.' I explained how the ELT should work and he directed me to move the switch to the ARM position. After the ELT's quick self-test it checked out as ready to operate.I am concerned that however long the ELT had been OFF that nobody noticed during their prefight equipment check. I also feel that Tech Ops/Flight Ops should have a better working knowledge of the equipment; or be able to quickly reference the information. Had I not questioned it; the equipment would have continued; as it apparently had already; to remain OFF.
Air carrier Flight Attendant reported ELT in the OFF position.