A few words on lifejackets and personal flotation devices in Canada

History

Lifejackets were developed for professional mariners in the event of emergencies at sea. They were consequently designed for higher performance, offering greater freeboard to account for more extreme wave conditions and also to account for a greater risk of injury that seamen could likely be subjected to in ship abandonment situations. This could lead to the wearer being thrown in the water in an unconscious state, thus the requirement for lifejackets to turn most face down wearers to a face up position. However, these performance requirements necessitate more buoyancy material, most of it in front of the wearer, making these devices less than comfortable.

What is referred to nowadays as a PFD was a compromise. It evolved from the need to make a device that would be sufficiently comfortable for users to wear since many small boat users did not enjoy wearing the bulky, constraining and uncomfortable device that is a lifejacket.

But, for PFDs to be more comfortable, the bulk had to go and the buoyancy material distribution had to be altered. This reduced the performance of these devices as compared to the lifejacket but was considered an acceptable compromise for a number of reasons.

Evidence showed that most small craft operators who drowned often did so within sight of a potential rescuer and would likely have been saved had they just remained afloat a few moments longer. This reinforced the belief that since most small craft users operated close to potential rescuers, it was more important to give them devices with less spectacular performances but that would keep them afloat than to give them high performance uncomfortable devices that they would not wear. This trend eventually lead to eliminating the requirement that these devices be only red, yellow or orange in colour. (This requirement remains for lifejackets as sailors floating in the immensity of an ocean obviously need to be more visible to be more easily detected to few and far apart search and rescue units.)

The same trend also led shortly thereafter to the acceptance of inflatable PFDs for use on pleasure craft.

Finding the Right Flotation Device for Yourself

Consider your particular circumstances carefully. If you will be involved in high-speed activities, use a device that has many belts. Don't hesitate to call the manufacturer's toll free number to get suggestions as to the best device for your particular activities.

Will you be out on the water early and late in the season, in the northern part of the country? Remember that most Canadian waters are cold most of the year. Give serious consideration to devices that offer some thermal protection.

The Small Vessel Regulations require that there be a sufficient number of Canadian approved flotation devices of appropriate size for each person on board a pleasure craft.

There are 2 exceptions. The flotation device need not be of appropriate size for:

• persons with a chest size in excess of 140 cm, and
• children weighing less than 9 kg (20 lbs.)

There are 2 main types of flotation devices:

• Lifejackets
• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Lifejackets

There are three types of lifejackets:

• SOLAS: Foam filled or Inflatable
• Standard Type
• Small Vessel

SOLAS Lifejackets

SOLAS lifejackets are required on all inspected commercial vessels and may be substituted for any of the other buoyant aids mentioned. They are constructed to the International Life Saving Appliance (LSA) Code which is pursuant to the Standards laid down in the 1974 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and subsequent amendments.

They have to meet very high performance standards:

• Turning time of 5 seconds or less (turns the body of an unconscious person from any position to one where the mouth is clear of the water)
• Freeboard of 120 mm (lift the mouth of an exhausted or unconscious person clear of the water)
• The body inclined backward at an angle of not less than 20° from the vertical

Quick Facts on Solas Lifejackets

• Approved by international standards for all vessels in Canadian waters.
• Mandatory onboard commercial vessels (i.e. fishing vessels, ferries and ocean-going vessels.) (Option to carry either standard lifejacket or SOLAS lifejacket.)
• When worn correctly these devices will turn you on your back to keep your face out of the water, whether conscious or unconscious.
• Must be worn loose to allow the water to flow under the device in order to turn you face up.
• Have retro-reflective tape and a whistle.
• Red, orange or yellow are the only Canadian approved colors for these kinds of devices.
• Available in 2 sizes; persons over 32 kg (70 lbs.), persons less than 32 kg.

Due to these requirements, foam filled SOLAS lifejackets are bulky and less comfortable than any other devices.

However, SOLAS inflatable lifejackets are a lot more comfortable and compact. They inflate automatically on immersion but can also be inflated manually or by mouth. In the event of loss of buoyancy in any compartment they still meet the performance criteria described above.

Standard Type Lifejacket

Standard Type lifejacket may be substituted for SOLAS lifejacket on certain inspected commercial vessels with a voyage limitation. They are constructed to the provisions of the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) Standard 65-GP-14M and have to be of a keyhole style only.

Quick Facts on Standard Type Lifejackets

• Approved for all vessels on Canadian waters.
• Mandatory onboard commercial vessels (i.e. fishing vessels, ferries and ocean-going vessels.) (Option to carry either standard lifejacket or SOLAS lifejacket).
• When worn correctly these devices will turn you on your back to keep your face out of the water, whether conscious or unconscious.
• Must be worn loose to allow the water to flow under the device in order to turn you face up.
• Have retro-reflective tape and a whistle.
• Red, orange or yellow are the only approved colours for these kinds of devices.
• Available in 2 sizes, less than 40 kg (88 lbs.) and greater than 40 kg.

Small Vessel Lifejackets

Small Vessel lifejackets are approved for use on small commercial vessels of less than 15 tons and on small passenger vessels. They comply with the provisions of CGSB Standard CAN/CGSB-65.7-M88. They are of vest type, are comfortable and can be easily mistaken for a PFD.

Quick Facts on Small Vessel Lifejackets

• Have less flotation than Standard lifejackets.
• When worn correctly these devices will turn you on your back initially but may not do so every time.
• Must be worn loose to allow the water to flow under the device in order to turn you face up.
• May not have retro-reflective tape and whistle.
• Red, orange and yellow are the only approved colours for these kinds of devices.
• Available in two (2) models: - Keyhole type - Vest type
• Available in 3 sizes:
  1. Person weighing more than 41kg (90 lbs.)
  2. Person weighing between 18kg (40 lbs.) and 41 kg (90 lbs.)
  3. Person weighing less than 18kg (40 lbs.)

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Approved personal flotation devices may be used in lieu of Standard, SOLAS or Small Vessel lifejackets on all pleasure craft, regardless of length. They are designed to be a more comfortable garment and worn constantly while boating. Inherently buoyant PFDs have less buoyancy and turning capability than lifejackets; however, they must not have a tendency for the wearer to be turned face down in the water. PFDs are approved in all colours but we recommend that boaters wear a bright coloured PFD for greater visibility. Many PFDs have been manufactured for specific activities or features, e.g. sail boarding, kayaking/canoeing, water skiing, special hypothermia prevention features, etc.

Buoyancy

This is Archimedes' Principle at work, which states that the buoyant force on a submerged object is equal to the weight of the fluid that is displaced by the object. This force is expressed in pounds in the English measurement system and in Newtons in the metric system. An average size adult requires around 7 lbs. of buoyancy to be maintained afloat with a reasonable freeboard.

There are two approved types of personal flotation devices:

• Inherently buoyant PFDs which have buoyancy capabilities due to their construction from unicellular foam or macro cellular elements;
• Inflatable PFDs, which are fitted with an oral inflation device and a manually activated CO₂ inflation system.

Inherently Buoyant PFDs (foam panels)

The standard for inherently buoyant devices requires 15 ½ lbs. of buoyancy thus incorporating a safety factor of 2, for good measure. Anyone who has floated in waters where there are waves will quickly understand that this requirement is far from overkill, quite on the contrary.

This explains the "15½ lbs. buoyancy" or "69 Newtons buoyancy" indications found on PFDs.

All inherently buoyant adult sizes are marked "Over 90 lbs. (41 kg)" and can be found marked from XXS to XXXL as well as Universal.

Quick Facts on Inherently Buoyant PFDs

• Approved for Recreational Boating only;
• Has less flotation than Standard, SOLAS and Small Vessel Regulations Lifejackets;
• Has very limited turning capability;
• More comfortable than lifejacket - designed for constant wear;
• Must be worn snug;
• Available in any colour; preference on bright colours;
• Some models help protect the wearer against hypothermia;
• When worn by children, they are not a substitute for parental supervision;
• Available in several sizes.

Inflatable PFDs

Inflatable PFDs are special devices in that the flotation of the wearer is not derived from inherently buoyant materials. In order for them to do their job, you, the wearer, must do yours! This means you have the responsibility to ensure you are familiar with the operation and maintenance requirements of your inflatable PFD!

You must also be familiar with its limitations and know which boating activities they are approved for under the Small Vessel Regulations.

Conditions of approval for inflatable PFDs under the Small Vessel Regulations:

• They must be worn by an adult (at least 16 years of age and weighing 36.3 kg or more), in the case of an open boat or on deck/cockpit in any other type of boat, or readily available to any other adult occupant while below deck.

• They are NOT approved for white water paddling or personal watercraft use.

• They must be fitted with an unpunctured, and fully functional inflation cartridge, or be worn fully inflated.

• They must be fitted with compatible inflation mechanism parts (refer to owner's manual). The fitting of any other part could result in the device failing to inflate or inflating improperly.

Inflatable PFDs are not for weak swimmers. The inflation time for these devices, although relatively short, may not be appropriate for persons that are not confident in the water and the two stage donning process for pouch type inflatables described above may exacerbate this situation.

While devices fitted with an automatic inflation mechanism may appear to alleviate the problem for weak swimmers, one should remember that if the inflation mechanism failed to operate, only a person confident in the water will likely be able to successfully inflate the device using the back up inflation system. (See note on oral inflation tube below)

All Canadian approved inflatable PFDs are fitted with an oral inflation tube that will allow the device to be inflated orally should the CO2 inflation mechanism fail.

All Canadian approved inflatable PFDs must have an owner's manual. Look for it, read it carefully, try the device on in a secure place and under supervision and make sure you are familiar and comfortable with it and its operation before heading out on your first boating excursion. An emergency where your life is at stake is a lousy time to be experimenting with a new device. PLAY IT SAFE.

There are three types of inflatable PFDs:

• Manual (Vest or suspender type)
• Manual (Pouch type)
• Automatic (Jacket type only)

Manual (Vest or suspender type)

The standard for vest or suspender type inflatable PFDs in Canada is 150 Newtons or nearly 34 lbs.

Why so much performance? Simply because it can be done without compromising comfort with this type of device because it derives its buoyancy from an inflatable chamber that is normally worn deflated and folded, occupying little space and weighing very little.

In the folded position, the device is comfortable and non-restrictive and can be quickly inflated (usually less than 5 seconds) by simply pulling on a tab when buoyancy is needed.

Manual (Pouch type)

The standard for pouch type inflatable PFDs in Canada is 100 Newtons or 22 ½ lbs. but this buoyancy level is commonly exceeded by manufacturers. This device looks like a tourist pouch and is actually worn the same way.

It is considered a 2 stage donning device because once the inflation mechanism is triggered, the inflation chamber pops out of the pouch and must then manually be brought over the wearer's head to be properly worn.

Since January 30, 2003, pouch type inflatables are no longer restricted only to rowing or paddling activities! 

Automatic (Jacket type only)

The term "automatic" means that the device will automatically inflate when it is immersed in water. A small cardboard element that easily disintegrates when wet holds a spring loaded pin in place. When the cardboard disintegrates, the spring uncoils and causes the pin to perforate a thin membrane covering the opening of the small CO2 inflation cartridge. This causes the CO2 gas under pressure in the cartridge to be released into the inflation chamber.

Devices fitted with an automatic inflator are not permitted for sailboarding activities.

Frequent immersions associated with this activity would cause early inflation and once inflated, the device becomes bulky and restrains movement. This would cause the user to deflate it to carry on the activity, leaving the device practically inoperative for many users when needed. (see note on oral inflation tube below)

Users should be aware that exposure to extreme humidity or water washing over the craft may cause premature inflation.

Finding the Right Flotation Device for Your Child

There is only one way to be sure that you are getting the right device for your child:

• Try it on
• Test it in controlled conditions under adult supervision

If you have read this site, the next step is to go to a reputable store and purchase a device appropriate for the weight of your child. Remember to keep the receipt and all tags and pamphlets that come with the device. Read the safety pamphlet and any accompanying material from the manufacturer as well as the labeling on the device. It will be helpful to know whether your child is a natural in the water or fearful in the water. You should also think about the activities you are contemplating.

For instance, if you only intend to use the device for passages from the shore to a cottage located on an island and your child does not enjoy the water anyway and your sole purpose is to give your child the best possible survival chance if it should end up in the water accidentally, then you will no doubt want to get a lifejacket. You can look inside the device for the indication that the device is indeed a lifejacket and not a PFD. You can also call a reputable lifejacket/PFD manufacturer of Canadian approved devices and ask for advice. Many of them have a toll free customer infoline.

If, on the other hand, your child is a natural in the water and you intend to use the device to take the child to the pool, the lake, etc., to play in the water, then a PFD is probably more appropriate.

Then you want to put the device on the child, secure it properly (if a crotch strap is provided, put it on to fit snugly) and move to water deep enough for your child to float. Then observe the performance of the device while you try to get the child to make as many moves as possible. Check that the head is kept well above the water and watch for any tendency that the device may have to tilt the child forward in a face in the water position. Then pull the child out of the water and check the device for water retention.

If at any point, you are not satisfied with the performance of the device, exchange it for another one.

All inherently buoyant children size PFDs are marked as follows:

• 59-90 lbs. (27-41 kg)
• 31-60 lbs. (14-27 kg)
• 20-31 lbs. ( 9 -14 kg)

There are no Canadian approved inflatable PFDs for children at this point in time. They are all size universal for adults over 36.3 kg (80 lbs.) and 16 years of age or above. Studies have shown that generally, young persons that do not meet that criteria are not yet ready to make quick decisions (such as locating and pulling the inflation tab) in an emergency situation.

There are no PFDs for children under 20 lbs. A number of factors have precluded the development of commercially viable devices for infants. These include low demand as well as a number of physical factors such as the instability in the upright position of their particular anatomy in its early stages of development, the weakness of their neck muscles frequently causing their head to tilt forward coupled with their tendency to revert to the fetal position which have a combined effect of causing them to go face down in the water. Counteracting this tendency by increasing the buoyancy of the device, mostly at the front, to cause them to roll to the face up position then puts them at an angle with the vertical where they loose sight of the horizon, a position in which they feel insecure and uncomfortable and will often cause them to frenetically attempt to get out of.

We recommend that you wait until your child reaches 20 lbs. before you go boating.

Labelling

All Canadian approved PFDs are labelled in both English and French. Read the labeling carefully. All that information is there for a reason: YOUR SAFETY.

Although most flotation devices have many similarities, standards to which they are built still vary from country to country. There are a number of reasons for this that will not be discussed here because of their complexity but you will be reassured to know that the Canadian standard for resistance of a PFD fabric to deterioration due to exposure to the elements (including UV rays) are probably the most stringent in the world today.

Here is a sample label with what to look for:

Only the devices marked with one of the following are approved for use in Canada:

• "Approved by Department of Transport Canada" or
• "Approved by Canadian Coast Guard, Department of Fisheries and Oceans"

Only these devices are approved with the following exception for foreign nationals: "A person who ordinarily resides in a country other than Canada, where the person brings aboard the pleasure craft a wearable personal flotation device or lifejacket of appropriate size that the person has brought into Canada for the person's use while in Canada and that conforms to the laws of that country."

Approval Process for Lifejackets and PFDs

Both lifejackets and PFDs are built to specific standards and are approved based on tests carried out on sample products submitted by manufacturers to a testing laboratory recognized by the approval authority. In Canada, the approval authority for lifejackets and PFDs is Transport Canada.

Manufacturers of devices that have received approval are subsequently subject to an ongoing follow up system as a measure of continued quality control. The approval issued applies only to unmodified devices as built by manufacturers of approved products. Modifications to an approved device will void approval.

Approvals are not issued for individual products nor can they be issued retroactively.

PFD Approval Process

1. Checking PFD against Standard

Inherently buoyant PFDs:
Obtain copy of Standard: CAN/CGSB 65.11 M88 for adults or CAN/CGSB 65.15 M88 for children, available from CGSB by e-mail at ncr.cgsb-ongc@pwgsc.gc.ca or by telephone at 1-800-665-2472, to see if device appears to meet the standard.

Inflatable PFDs:
Obtain copy of Standard: UL 1180 [available by calling (800) 854-7179] with Canadian Addendum to see if device appears to meet the standard.

2. Contacting testing facility

Inherently buoyant PFDs & Inflatable PFDs

If device appears to meet the standard, contact Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada (ULC) using the following contact information:  For project quotes, please go to www.ul.com/pfdquote. For quote inquiries or questions, please e-mail pfdquote@us.ul.com.

Canadian addendum to Standard UL 1180 for Inflatable Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

The Canadian addendum includes the following requirements:

• devices must be marked as being approved by Transport Canada or, for previously approved PFDs, the Canadian Coast Guard;
• all markings must be in both official languages;
• a specific Canadian warning label must be affixed to all devices; and
• there are some amendments to, and clarification of, the technical requirements.

To get a copy of the Canadian addendum, please contact us.