PFD Type - I
To comply with SIRIM (Standard In Research Institution of Malaysia) standard it must provide a high level of buoyancy, maintaning the wearer in a safe floating position, i.e. with the body inclined backwards from the vertical with the nose and mouth clear of the water. The bulk of the PFD Type I can make it awkward to move about freely or swim for any distance while wearing one. They are generally recommended for use in pleasure boats which may venture beyond sheltered waters or where the wearer is at risk of sustaining injuries which may impede the wearers ability to swim.
PFD Type - II
It is required to provide sufficient buoyancy to assist the wearer to maintain his or her head above water, but not as much as a PFD Type 1. It is less bulky than a PFD Type 1, making it more suitable for applications when the wearer needs to move around or swim. A PFD Type 2 is generally recommended for boaters & kayakers etc, who are required to wear a PFD for extended periods of time.
PFD Type - III
It is provides a similar amount of buoyancy to that of a PFD Type 2, but is permitted to carry a wide range of colours. PFD Type 3’s are generally recommended for use by water skiers and jet skiers in sheltered waters where assistance is immediately at hand.
General Comments:
A personal flotation device will help you in the water, but it cannot guarantee safety or protection from drowning.
Special Protection for Children
It
is difficult for a child to float in a face up position because of the distribution of body mass and because the child may tend to panic in an unfamiliar environment. However, a properly designed PFD of the correct size will keep a child’s mouth and nose clear of the water. A child should be taught how to put on the PFD and should be encouraged to try it out in the water. It is important that the child feels comfortable and understands what the PFD is for and how it works.
Type of Life Jacket
Type - I
This type is the most buoyant and is especially suitable for use in severe conditions (i.e. open, rough or remote waters) and where rescue may be delayed. It is designed to turn most unconscious wearers to a face-up position.
Type II
This type is good for calm, inland waters (lakes and slow-moving rivers) where there is a good chance being rescued quickly. Smaller sizes often have high collars to help keep a child's face above water. It is designed to turn some unconscious wearers to a face-up position.
Type - III
This type has similar flotation features with Type II. It is the most comfortable and offers the most freedom of movement so that wearers can turn themselves to a face-up position. There is a wide selection of sizes, from small child to adult.
Type IV
This is a boat cushion or a rescue ring. It is designed to be used in calm, inland waters with high traffic where help is readily available. It is designed to be thrown to the person in the water and held until rescue arrives. It cannot be worn or used in place of a life jacket and is not suitable for children.