Maintaining your lifejacket is crucial to ensure it’s ready to protect you when you need it most. Here’s how to service your lifejacket properly:
Step 1: Check for Visible Wear and Tear
Inspect your lifejacket for any visible signs of damage, such as tears, fraying straps, lose stitching, or broken buckles. This will help you spot any immediate issues that need attention.
Step 2: Inspect the CO2 Cylinder
For inflatable lifejackets, the CO2 cylinder is key to activation. Ensure that the cylinder is not rusty (rust particles could pierce the inflated jacket), and that it is securely screwed in (hand-tight). This check is vital to ensure that it will function properly in an emergency.
Step 3: Check the Auto-Inflation Cartridge (If Applicable)
If you have an auto-inflating lifejacket, check the cartridge. Make sure it’s still in date and properly installed, you can even check the weight as it is printed on the cartridge. These must be replaced according to the expiry date shown on the cartridge to ensure it works when you need it!.
Step 4: Inspect the Pull Cord
Make sure the pull cord is free of any knots and ready for use. This is your manual activation mechanism, so it’s important that it’s easily accessible and ready to go!
Step 5: Clean After Use
After every use, rinse the lifejacket with fresh water to remove salt, dirt, or oil. Remove the CO2 cylinder and let the lifejacket air dry completely. Reinstall the cylinder once dry, and store the lifejacket in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Step 6: Regular Servicing
In NSW, inflatable lifejackets must be serviced once a year, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures the bladder, inflation mechanism, and CO2 cylinder are in good working order. Always keep a record of the service date inside the lifejacket, and be ready to show it to authorities.
Self-Service Options
You can often service your lifejacket yourself by following the manufacturer’s instructions (check at point of purchase to ensure you can do it yourself, or if you have to send it to an approved service agent). Some lifejackets come with easy-to-follow guides or online tutorials for self-servicing.
View TfNSW servicing guide vide here.
Remember: A well-maintained lifejacket can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. Ensure your lifejacket is always in top condition by servicing it regularly.
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