New PFD Labeling Standards
A North American standards group has recently revised the labelling standards for Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), to ensure harmonization between American and Canadian standards. The following article from The Boat Blub an overview of the changes and provides a tremendous amount of information about PFDs and safety measures in general.
While we encourage you to review the entire article, the following are a few summary points:
Old system using “Type” descriptions to categorize PFDs has been replaced by “Performance Level” groups
PFD tag will list activities for which the PFD is not approved
Performance Levels (50, 70, 100, or 150) allows for a range of buoyancy ratings within each Performance Level.
Level 50 PFD is buoyancy aid designed for smooth waters (fishing, kayaking, etc.) where you do not need a self-turning ability to keep head above water - not for non/weak swimmers;
Level 70 PFD is buoyancy aid equivalent to the old system’s Type III PFD. Most commonly worn by recreational boaters, intended for use by those who have means of rescue close at hand or are near shore.
Level 100 PFD feature high flotation and reasonable self-turning ability. For open but sheltered waters. Comparable to the old Type I jacket.
Level 150 PFD are for open water, offshore, deep-water use. High floatation and self-turning ability.
Level 275 PFD are built for specified commercial applications.
