Avoid keeping lifejackets in damp lockers, direct sunlight, or areas exposed to fuel fumes. Ultraviolet (UV) rays degrade nylon fabrics over time.
When evaluating lifejacket donning instructions, consider the following factors:
Remove the lifejacket from its compact, airtight plastic storage bag if it's a ferry-type model. Unfasten the main interlocking buckle or buckles, which can usually be opened by pressing in both red tabs or by separating the metal buckle mechanism.
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: Remove the lifejacket from its vacuum packaging (for stored ferry models) and check that the CO₂ cylinder is screwed in tightly (but not over-tightened); look for rust or corrosion on the cylinder; for automatic models, verify the inflation indicator is showing green, not red; confirm the automatic inflation cartridge has not passed its expiry date. eval lifejacket donning instructions
EVAL lifejackets are engineered to automatically rotate an wearer to a safe, face-up floating position, keeping the mouth and nose clear of the water. However, this design feature relies entirely on the jacket being fitted snugly and correctly to the wearer’s torso. Step-by-Step Donning Instructions by Model Type
Inspect the outer shell for rips, tears, or severe abrasion.
: Failing to properly adjust the straps can result in a loose or overly tight fit. Straps should be snug but not constrictive, allowing for comfortable movement while ensuring the lifejacket stays in place.
Place the uninflated lifejacket over your shoulders. The neck collar should rest comfortably on the back of your neck, and the two bladder halves should drape down your chest. Step 2: Fasten the Waist Buckle Avoid keeping lifejackets in damp lockers, direct sunlight,
: If the jacket is wet, it may have been activated and the cylinder may be empty. Inflatable lifejackets can be very difficult to don when fully inflated, which would be required before a thorough inspection.
Locate the heavy-duty webbing straps at the front of the jacket. Pass them around your waist or thread them through the designated loops/buckles according to the specific model design.
Check that the SOLAS-grade reflective tape patches on the shoulders and collar are clean and unobstructed. These are vital for night-time search and rescue operations.
EVAL inflatable lifejackets are designed for both automatic and manual activation. Unfasten the main interlocking buckle or buckles, which
– Click the heavy-duty plastic buckle together at the front of your waist. If your model uses a plastic d-ring or a knot system, thread the webbing securely.
Use the attached EVAL whistle to sound acoustic signals (one long blast periodically). If rescuing at night, ensure the water-activated light is unobstructed.
: A lifejacket that is too large or too small will not keep you safe. Always follow the manufacturer's sizing guidelines (for Eval jackets, this includes a minimum user body weight of 40 kg and a maximum chest circumference of 140 cm for their SIMI 170N model).