How often should a lifejacket be serviced?
Most lifejacket manufacturers recommend that their products are serviced annually by service stations that they have approved although some may extend this to two years for privately owned lifejackets.
What is serviceable condition for life jackets?
All life preservers must be in serviceable condition. That means that the PFD must be free of tears, rot, punctures and waterlogging, and that all straps are present and in good shape. A Coast Guard approved PFD must be worn by a person being towed on water skis or other device, or carried in the towing watercraft.
Do you have to service inflatable life jackets?
In NSW you must service your inflatable lifejacket every year – or in line with the manufacturer’s advice. Most manufacturers specify routine checks and maintenance schedules for keeping your lifejacket in good condition.
How many years do life jackets last?
The lifespan of an inflatable lifejacket is thus limited to ten years. Linked to this ten year period is the regular servicing of the device in periods of no more than two years and is strongly recommended for all lifejackets used in leisure boating.
Can all automatic life jackets be fired manually if required?
A. No, some lifejackets are designed to be manually activated only. Always make sure you know what type you’re wearing and if it is suitable for the activity. All inflatable gas lifejackets will come with a manual override, make sure you know where this is and that it is accessible.
What is the USCG approved meaning for serviceable condition for life jackets?
The USCG Definition of Serviceable Flotation Devices Each PFD must meet the USCG definition of serviceable. This means each device must remain in good working condition so it’s effective if needed in an emergency situation.
Why do lifejackets require regular maintenance?
When a life jacket fails to inflate properly, the results can be life-threatening. Unknown bladder leaks may exist, fabric degradation or an improperly installed CO2 cylinder is all it takes to render an inflatable life jacket ineffective by preventing its inflation or ability to stay inflated.
What is a legal life jacket?
All recreational vessels must carry an appropriate lifejacket for each person on board. Lifejackets must be the correct size for the wearer and must be in good working order. Inflatable lifejackets must be properly serviced. Lifejackets must be stored in a location that allows quick and easy access.
What are the requirements for a life jacket?
The Requirements for Life Jackets. There must be a properly fitting life jacket for each and every person aboard a recreational vessel. Life jackets must be Coast Guard-approved, in serviceable condition and the appropriate size for the intended user.
What is a Coast Guard approved life jacket?
Type I US Coast Guard approved life jackets are meant for cruising, racing, offshore fishing or for stormy conditions. These are usually hardy life jackets meant for those that are serious about their on-water activities and need to be self-reliant.
What is the Minnesota life jacket law?
Minnesota law requires one U.S. Coast Guard approved, properly sized, and easily accessible life jacket for each person on the boat. All children under ten are required to wear an approved life jacket at all times while in a boat.