Life Jackets...So Many, So Different
Coast Guard statistics show fatality rates have dropped over the past 25 years due to, in part, the use of inherently buoyant PFDs. In the early 90s the Coast Guard recognized that inflatable PFDs might be more appealing to recreational boaters thereby increasing their usage. Approval came in 1996, and inflatable PFDs are now available to the boating public. When the United States Coast Guard approved inflatable PFDs for general use, many questions arose. In order to find answers to these questions, several different references must be researched. No single USCG document covering this subject exists. Some of the typical questions are as follows:
Why are there several types of life jackets or PFDs?
Personal flotation devices are classified into various types based on the environment in which they are designed to perform and their intended use. The design of the PFD is tested on its characteristics of buoyancy and in-water performance. For example, the Type I is effective for all waters, especially open, rough and remote waters where rescue may be delayed. It is designed to turn most unconscious wearers in the water to a face-up position. Type II PFDs are designed for use where the water is calmer and rescue can be expected in a shorter period than in open seas. Type III PFDs are designed for protected waters where rescue can be expected in a very short period of time.
What is an inflatable personal flotation device?
The main characteristic of the inflatable PFD is that it has a chamber or bladder that is filled either by a compressed air cartridge or by mouth. The air chamber is its only source of buoyancy. When the air chamber is fully inflated, most designs resemble the Type II yoke style PFD. In its ready to use (packed) form, the PFD will not float nor will it provide any buoyancy for the wearer. These PFDs are classified as either Type III or Type V depending upon their design characteristics and intended use.
Manual inflation
Blow into inflation tube
Automatic inflation
Pull cord and/or sensor
CO2 cartridge and air chamber
What is a hybrid inflatable personal flotation device?
A hybrid inflatable PFD uses a mixture of inherently buoyant material and an inflatable chamber to provide flotation. An example of a hybrid would be a design similar to a jacket or parka with the buoyant material and inflatable chamber(s) sewn between the jacket's outer material and liner. Unfortunately, the hybrid PFD designs are hot, bulky, and expensive.
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