Understanding Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Understanding Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Faizal AHMAD FUAD
Nautical Science and Maritime Transport Program, Faculty of Maritime Studies
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu

Introduction

When it comes to water safety, two terms are often used interchangeably: lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs). While both are designed to help a person stay afloat in water, there are important differences in their design, function, and intended use. Understanding these distinctions can be critical in selecting the right equipment for various water-related activities (U.S. Coast Guard, 2022).

Definitions and Key Differences

A lifejacket is a type of flotation device specifically designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in the water and keep the airway clear. It typically provides greater buoyancy and is more suitable for emergencies or situations with a high risk of drowning (IMO, 2020). Lifejackets are usually bulkier and are required on commercial vessels and for activities with significant drowning risks.

A personal flotation device (PFD) refers to a broader category of buoyancy aids, including lifejackets. However, in common usage, PFDs are less buoyant and are designed to assist conscious wearers in staying afloat. They offer more comfort and mobility, making them ideal for recreational activities like kayaking, sailing, or fishing (ISO, 2020).

Feature	Lifejacket	PFD
Buoyancy	Higher (150 N to 275N)	Light and Moderate (50N to 100N)
Face-up flotation	Yes (within 5 secs even when unconscious)	No (requires user to maintain position)
Comfort & mobility	Less comfortable, bulky	More comfortable, flexible
Typical use	Emergency use, commercial vessels	Recreational water activities
Visibility	Usually bright with reflectors	May vary depending on design

Applications of Lifejackets and PFDs

Lifejackets are legally required on board commercial ships, ferries, and offshore platforms in accordance with international maritime safety regulations (IMO, 2020). They are especially crucial for non-swimmers or in high-risk maritime environments where there is an elevated danger of drowning. Lifejackets are also used in search and rescue operations, primarily for self-rescue by individuals in distress, rather than as equipment worn by rescuers from authorities. Additionally, the use of lifejackets is mandatory for infants and children on boats to ensure adequate flotation and visibility (USCG, 2022). Their high buoyancy and face-up flotation capability make them particularly suitable during rough sea conditions, poor weather, or nighttime navigation when the risk of falling overboard or delayed rescue is greater.

Personal flotation devices (PFDs), on the other hand, are commonly used for recreational activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Due to their lighter and more flexible design, PFDs are favored by lifeguards, paddleboarders, and users of personal watercraft who require greater mobility. They are also widely used in water-based training scenarios where ease of movement is essential (ISO, 2020). Furthermore, PFDs are preferred for inland water navigation and sports fishing, where the water conditions are typically calmer, and users are generally conscious and capable swimmers.

Standards and Regulations

To ensure performance and safety, lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are manufactured in compliance with specific international and national standards. Two major international standards are commonly referenced: the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 1974 (SOLAS 74) and ISO 12402. In addition, many countries adopt their own national standards; for example, the United States follows guidelines established by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

The SOLAS 74 standard is regarded as the most stringent and is applicable primarily to lifejackets used on international voyages and commercial vessels. Lifejackets that are SOLAS-approved must comply with the Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code, provide a buoyancy of at least 275 Newtons (N), and be capable of turning an unconscious person face-up in the water within five seconds. They must also be fire-retardant and include essential features such as a whistle, retro-reflective tape, and an emergency light (IMO, 2020).

The ISO 12402 series is another widely recognized international standard that classifies lifejackets and PFDs based on their buoyancy levels and intended applications. ISO 12402-1 outlines general requirements for lifejackets on seagoing ships. ISO 12402-2 specifies 275N lifejackets for offshore and heavy-duty use, while ISO 12402-3 and ISO 12402-4 cover 150N and 100N lifejackets, respectively, for general boating purposes. ISO 12402-5 describes 50N PFDs intended for competent swimmers in calm waters (ISO, 2020).

In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) classifies lifejackets and PFDs into several types. Type I lifejackets are designed for offshore use and provide high buoyancy, including the ability to turn an unconscious person face-up. Type II vests are near-shore buoyant aids suitable for calmer waters, while Type III devices are flotation aids intended for active water sports (USCG, 2022).

In Malaysia, the application of flotation device standards depends on the type of maritime operation. For commercial ship operations, Malaysia adheres to the SOLAS 74 standard. Additionally, Malaysia has adopted the ISO 12402 series as Malaysian Standards, designated as MS ISO 12402. This adoption was formalized in 2008 and includes several parts of the series, such as MS ISO 12402-2:2008, which aligns with ISO 12402-2:2006. These standards define the safety requirements for personal flotation devices, including lifejackets. As a result, PFDs used in Malaysia especially for non-commercial and recreational activities such as boating and fishing are recommended to comply with MS ISO 12402. This ensures user safety while maintaining regulatory compliance and alignment with international best practices.

Conclusion

Choosing the right flotation device can be the difference between life and death on the water. Lifejackets provide essential buoyancy and automatic face-up flotation for survival, especially in emergencies, whereas PFDs are best suited for active, conscious wearers engaged in water sports or leisure activities. Adherence to recognized standards, such as SOLAS and ISO certifications, ensures these devices perform effectively when needed most. Whether navigating the open sea or enjoying a day at the lake, wearing the right flotation device remains a fundamental safety practice.

References

International Maritime Organization (IMO). (2020). International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code. London: IMO Publishing.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO). (2020). ISO 12402-2: Personal flotation devices –
Part 2: Lifejackets, performance level 275 – Safety requirements. Geneva: ISO.
Jabatan Laut Malaysia. (2023). Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 and Regulations. Retrieved from https://www.marine.gov.my/
U.S. Coast Guard. (2022). PFD Selection, Use, Wear & Care. Retrieved from https://www.uscgboating.org/

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