In the shipping industry, where crews often work in challenging environments and unpredictable weather conditions, ensuring their safety is very important. This is achieved by implementing safety protocols, providing proper training, and the use of essential safety equipment like life jackets.
Personal flotation devices play a vital role in protecting the crew on board during emergencies. Life jackets are designed to keep individuals afloat and prevent drowning. Depending on the purpose and environment where they can be effectively used, different types of life jackets are employed in maritime operations. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Importance of life jackets
Life jackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are a major safety tool used in the shipping industry. The primary reason why different life vest types are so essential is that they are crafted to keep an individual afloat in water. If crew members fall into the water during an accident, a life jacket will help them stay afloat, stopping them from drowning. This also provides time for the rescue teams to come and help.
Even professional swimmers can experience difficulties during high tides and strong waves. During all these situations, a life jacket becomes a life-saving tool. Also, according to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), life jackets are legally needed on ferries, ships and boats.
Different types of life jackets
All life jackets are not the same. Each of them is designed for various purposes, depending heavily on the water condition and activity. Here are some of the main life jacket categories:
- Type I: Offshore life jackets
- Perfect for open seas and deep water.
- Created to keep an individual face upward even when they’re unconscious.
- Very bulky but offers the best flotation.
- Normally used in long-distance sea travel, offshore oil platforms or ships.
- Type II: Near-shore buoyant vests
- Perfect for calm waters, such as rivers or lakes.
- Less bulky than the Type I and offers excellent support.
- Might not turn an unconscious individual face up in water.
- Excellent for small watercraft, short boat rides and fishing.
- Type III: Floating aids
- Used mainly in calm waters where rescue can be fast.
- Very comfortable and enables movement.
- Commonly worn during water sports, such as rafting, jet skiing or kayaking.
- Not fit for saving someone in an unconscious situation.
- Type V: Special use devices
- These are crafted for specific maritime jobs such as helicopter transfers, fire-resistant operations or immersion suits for cold weather.
- Typically used by skilled rescuers and trained individuals.
- Inflatable life jackets
- They are pretty compact and lightweight.
- Inflates automatically when it touches the water or manually by pulling the cord.
- It’s ideal for all commercial fishermen, sailors and cargo ship crews.
How to use life jackets?
Opting for various safety jacket types is not enough. You must also know how to use it correctly.
- Pick the correct size: All life jackets come in various sizes. It should fit snugly.
- Wear it at all times: Accidents can take place unexpectedly. So, wear it all the time.
- Inspect for damages: You should not use broken or torn jackets.
- Fasten all straps: Make sure all the straps, buckles and zippers are secured properly.
- Follow the instructions for use: Many life jackets are inflatable and require manual or automatic activation. Know how to activate it.
Role of marine insurance in marine safety
Marine safety does not stop with just the lifesaving equipment like life jackets. Having marine insurance is highly crucial for safeguarding property, people and cargo in a ship. Here’s how the insurance connects with safety:
- Covers for accidents
If a crew member drowns or gets injured while on board a ship, the marine policy helps cover all medical expenses.
- Safeguards equipment and cargo
Cargo ships carry plenty of costly goods. Insurance can help compensate for the loss, damage or theft of items being shipped.
- Needed for business compliance
When you’re running a shipping business, insurance policies are often needed by port authorities or the law.
- Covers legal liability
Protects shipowners and operators from financial losses arising from third-party claims related to injury, property damage, pollution or regulatory breaches during maritime operations.
Conclusion
Life jackets are life-saving devices that keep the crew members of a ship safe while working on board. It saves them from drowning during an accident. Shipping companies have to choose the right lifejacket according to the specific maritime operations, environmental conditions and the roles of the crew members on board.
While safety equipment is a must, you should not forget about the importance of marine insurance. It protects you financially in times of various emergencies. If you don’t ship frequently, you can opt for a single transit insurance policy during each trip, saving money and ensuring the required protection.
FAQ
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Is it compulsory to wear life jackets in India?
It’s crucial for the crew members of a ship to wear a life jacket under the Indian Maritime Laws.
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Can I use one life jacket for all the activities?
No. Different life jackets are designed for various reasons. Pick the one that suits your activity perfectly.
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Are life jackets completely washable?
Yes. The majority of these jackets can be washed with water and soap. You should avoid machine washing and drying them under direct sunlight.
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How long does a life jacket last?
If you use it properly, it can last 5 to 10 years. However, inspect the jacket regularly for wear and tear.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.