Personal floatation devices (PFDs) or commonly known as life
jackets, are very much important when it comes to water activities. These are
rated as an efficient safety measure which is popular among boating, cruise
ships, water sports etc. Candidates who work on docks, bridges, ship repair as
well as at off-shore oil and gas rigs make use of PFDs.
However, there are procedures & criteria set by
authorized agencies that highlight the proper selection and usage of PFDs to
ensure proper protection while working in hostile conditions. As per the Personal
Flotation Device Manufacturer’s Association (PFDMA), almost all adults require
an additional 22 lbs. of buoyancy as compared to their respective body weight to
maintain their heads above the water level.
Types of Personal Floatation Devices
According to the recommendations made by the USCG, there are
five primary types of PFDs, namely:
Type I PFDs or Off-Shore Life Jackets: You can call
them the best devices suitable for all waters, rough seas, open ocean, or
remote water where the scope of rescue is slow. These device are also used in
the form of abandon-ship life jackets linked to commercial vessels as well as vBuoyant Vests:essels
that carry passengers.
Type II PFDs or Near-Shore These are
associated to general boating actions or calm inland waters where the chance of
quick rescue are high.
Type III PFDs or Flotation Aids: For general boating
or specialized activity that is marked on the device (such as water skiing,
canoeing, kayaking, hunting etc.). These devices are best for calm inland
waters or where there is a good chance for fast rescue.
Type IV PFDs or Throwable Devices: The personal floatation devices market has
seen significant growth due to rise in demand for throwable options. These life
jackets can be thrown to the person who is distress in water. Boat seat
cushions, horseshoe buoys and ring buoys are some popular versions.
Type V PFDs or Special Use Devices: These are
confined for special uses & conditions. Also, there are certain limits to
these usage that need to be abided. Type V PFDs are commonly utilized for canoeing/kayaking,
deck suits, boardsailing, man over-board circumstances etc.
Comments
Post a Comment