Safety on the water is the name of the game when it comes to lifejackets, but only if they are fit for purpose and actually worn. Performance, safety and comfort, therefore, are paramount.
The nine-part ISO 12402 series of standards, Personal flotation devices, aims to improve such elements by serving as an internationally agreed guide to manufacturers, purchasers and users of personal flotation devices. It outlines the safety requirements and test methods of lifejackets, buoyancy aids, components and accessories to protect a user from drowning and ensure the equipment works effectively. The series has just been updated to ensure it remains relevant to any latest technologies and continues to keep us safe on the water.
The ISO 12402 series addresses both lifejackets and buoyancy aids and their varying specificities, such as levels of support, types of buoyancy, activation methods for inflatable devices and more.
Key improvements to the series include new terms and definitions, modifications to compliance criteria for some aspects and additions to requirements where necessary.
The ISO 12402 series was developed and updated by ISO technical committee ISO/TC 188, Small craft, subcommittee SC 1, Personal safety equipment, the secretariat of which is held by DIN, ISO’s member for Germany. The different parts can be purchased from your national ISO member or the ISO Store.