Production tests for lifejackets: UK23/L001
UK approved recommendation UK23/L001 on the production test requirements for lifejackets. Adopted EU recommendation LSA-094.
Question
1) Is it required for a manufacturer to undertake the Production Tests within MSC.81(70) paragraph 2.1.1, which states these tests “should be required”?
2) Is this required for both Inherently Buoyant and Inflatable Lifejackets, as Inflatable Lifejackets can be tested in other ways due to fixed volume and gas guaranteeing the same buoyancy?
3) If required, what test method is to be used for the buoyancy test?
4) Can a manufacturer of Inflatable Lifejackets substitute this test for a 24-hour pressure test of the bladder?
Recommendation
1) Yes, considering MSC.81(70) is listed as applicable testing standard for item UK/1.4 in MSN 1874 (as amended), any production test applicable to this equipment indicated in MSC.81(70) Part 2 is to be carried out, including the buoyancy test.
2) Yes, paragraph 2.1.1 of MSC.81(70) applies to all lifejackets without difference regarding the construction, therefore it is applicable to both inherently buoyant and inflatable lifejacket.
3) The test method shall be the same as required in MSC.81(70) Part 1, paragraph 2.2.
4) No, there is no alternative proposed in MSC.81(70) Part 2 paragraph 2.1.1, therefore a buoyancy test must be conducted.
References:
• MSN 1874 as amended
• The Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations 2016 as amended
• MSC.81(70)
Items affected:
• UK/1.4 (Lifejackets)
More information
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Bay 2/21
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
Telephone: +44 (0) 203 817 2000
Email: MEQA@mcga.gov.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/mca