 | ||
| Your browser is not supported. | ||
|
Please browse our site using any of the following options:
| ||
PFDs Explained: Everything You Need to Know
Personal Flotation Devices (or PFDs) are known by many names, including life jackets, life vests or buoyancy jackets, but whatever you call them, they're a vital piece of water sports equipment. Whether you're boating, waterskiing or ski-tubing, fishing, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding, PFDs are one of the most important ways you can help ensure your safety on the water.
PFDs have different ratings and purposes, so it is important to understand which one is best for your needs. Different uses call for different types of PFDs, and there is a range of buoyancy levels to choose from, depending on what water sports activity you're taking part in. Plus, each Australian state and territory has its own rules and regulations about what PFDs are approved and when and how you need to use them.
It can all get a bit confusing but never fear - we're here to break it all down for you, so you understand everything you need to know about PFDs, and can take to the water in confidence!
Quick Links
Types Of PFDs
There are many styles of PFDs, but they all fall into two main types of construction: Closed-cell foam and Inflatable.
Closed Cell Foam
Closed cell foam PFDs are made from foam that's able to withstand impact and doesn't absorb water. These PFDs are generally regarded as offering the best all-round protection, though they may be bulkier than inflatable PFDs and can be uncomfortable if they're not fitted correctly. On the other hand, closed-cell foam PFDs typically offer better thermal protection than their inflatable counterparts.
Inflatable PFDs
Inflatable PFDs can be activated manually by pulling a tab or automatically inflate when they come into contact with water. Manually inflated PFDs should never be used by people who can't swim unless they are inflated prior to entering the water, and are not recommended for use by children under 12 years of age. Auto-inflating PFDs shouldn't be used in a boat or jet ski, or if you're being towed for waterskiing or wakeboarding, as excess spray can activate them inadvertently.
Personal Floatation Device Ratings
Whether you're using them for a leisurely paddle in a kayak or an adventurous excursion on a jet ski, all PFDs must conform to Australian Design Standard AS4758.1. These PFDs are classified by their buoyancy levels, measured in newtons. Basically, the higher the measurement, the greater the buoyancy. These buoyancy levels determine which PFD is best suited to a particular activity.
The six PFD rating levels are:
- SOLAS
- Level 275
- Level 150
- Level 100
- Level 50
- Level 50S
SOLAS
SOLAS stands for Safety of Life at Sea. SOLAS PFDs are bulky life jackets, designed to keep the body afloat for long periods. They have a light and whistle attached to them to attract attention. These types of PFDs are carried by commercial vessels and are recommended for use on larger boats operating far from the shoreline.
Level 275
Level 275 PFDs are designed with the highest level of safety in mind, and are intended for offshore use and rough weather. Level 275 PFDs are suitable for when you're wearing clothes that could trap air, stopping a less buoyant PFD turning you to a face-up position, or if you're carrying heavy items call for extra buoyancy.
Level 150
PFDs with a buoyancy level of 150 can be used in all types of water conditions. They're the best choice for boaters who spend lots of time offshore in an array of different weather conditions. Made with high-visibility materials, Level 150 PFDs also feature a collar that will keep you afloat and support your neck, head and shoulders if you're unconscious.
While they are at the top of the range in terms of buoyancy, Level 150 PFDs are not suitable for all uses. Because of the built-in collar, they have the potential to cause serious neck or even spinal injury if you have a fall while wakeboarding or waterskiing. And they don't have a great range of movement, so paddle boarding and kayaking can become pretty hard work.
Level 100
Level 100 PFDs still provide a high level of buoyancy support for the wearer, but are more appropriate for use in near-shore water activities where the waters are generally calmer. Like their Level 150+ counterparts, they're not appropriate for waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking or SUP boarding.
Level 50
For activities like waterskiing, SUP boarding, kayaking and wakeboarding, Level 50 PFDs are the best choice because they offer the kind of movement and flexibility you need without compromising your safety. These PFDs don't have the bulky support collars of the heavy-duty life jackets, but they offer a great deal of head and neck support, making them ideal for use in smooth or calm open waters closer to shore. Level 50 PFDs feature bright safety colours, so they're highly visible for attracting attention if you need assistance.
Level 50S
Level 50S PFDs are only for use in smooth waters like streams, rivers and lakes within a short distance from land. The S in 50S stands for special purpose, indicating activities like near-shore kayaking, SUP boarding and waterskiing. 50S PFDs have no head and neck support, and may not feature bright safety colours.
Rules & Regulations About PFD Usage
Each state and territory of Australia has different laws on PFD requirements, so you should check your jurisdiction's regulations to regularly make sure you're up to date with the latest regulations. Regardless of where you're located, ensure your PFD is the right size, has the right buoyancy level, is in good condition and is easy to access.
NSW & ACT
In NSW, recreational vessels must carry a PFD for each person on board. PFDs must be worn during risky conditions and on specific vessel types such as powerboats, sailboats and personal watercraft (i.e. jet skis), and when towing. For boats up to 4.8 m, PFD level requirements depend on water type and time of day - over 4.8 m, Level 100 is required for coastal bar crossings. Jetskis require Level 50S PFDs, and PFDs are mandatory for canoes, kayaks and surf skis in most cases.
Victoria
In Victoria, generally you must wear a PFD on most boats at all times, and you must also ensure that every person under the age of 12 is wearing a life jacket when in an open area. On any kind of boat, you're required to wear a Level 100 or greater PFD in coastal and enclosed waters. On inland waters, you can wear a minimum 50S. On personal watercraft, you must wear a 50S or higher PFD in coastal, enclosed and inland waters. Likewise, in a canoe, a kayak or a SUP board, you need at least a 50S PFD.
Queensland
In Queensland, PFDs must be worn: when you're alone or accompanied only by children under 12 years in an open boat less than 4.8m in length and underway, during the crossing of a designated coastal bar in an open boat, as well as in any open area of a boat of any length, between sunset and sunrise in an open boat less than 4.8 m in length and underway, by children and under 12 years when on an open boat or in the open area of a boat of any length while it's underway. In open waters, Level 100+ PFDs are required. In partially smooth waters, you need at least Level 50, and in smooth waters Level 50S is the minimum.
South Australia
On motor boats 4.8 m or less in length, South Australia requires everyone on board wear a PFD whenever the vessel is underway or at anchor. When in an open area of any vessel from 4.8 m to 12 m in length that's underway or at anchor, children 12 years old or younger must wear a PFD at all times. In circumstances of heightened risk, all occupants must wear a Level 50 or 50S PFD or higher in semi-protected or protected waters, and a Level 100 or higher PFD in unprotected waters.
Western Australia
On vessels smaller than 4.8 m, Western Australia requires Level 100 or higher PFDs to be carried for each person operating in protected waters within 400 m of shore. In unprotected waters more than 400 m from shore, they must be worn. On vessels 4.8 m long or larger operating in both protected and unprotected waters, Level 100 or higher PFDs must only be carried, except they must be worn by children 12 years and younger in the latter case.
All people on board a personal watercraft must wear at least a Level 50S PFD at all times, in all waters. For sailboards, kiteboards, windsurfers, paddle craft, tenders and sailing dinghies, at least Level 50S PFDs are recommended in protected waters, and are required in unprotected waters more than 400 m from shore.
Tasmania
Tasmania requires an approved PFD to be provided for each person on board any vessel. It is compulsory to wear a PFD in any recreational motorboat or motor-propelled tender under 6 m in length whilst under power. Children under the age of 12 years must wear a PFD in a recreational motorboat or motor-propelled tender of any length while under power.
In a lightweight craft like kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards and dinghies, a Level 50 PFD is required in smooth or sheltered waters, and a Level 100 PFD is required in coastal waters.
NT
Northern Territory law requires you to have an approved PFD for each person on board in all water types. Level 100 PFDs are required on open and intermediate waters while a level 50 is suitable for inland waters.
Find the Right PFD For Your Activity At Anaconda
Whether you're looking for a boating PFD, a PFD for fishing, a waterskiiing PFD or a PFD for kids, Anaconda has you covered. We even have PFDs designed for dogs so you can keep your furry friends safe too!
Get All Your Water Sports Needs At Anaconda Today
Getting out and enjoying a day on the water is awesome fun, and a great way to appreciate the outdoors.
Wearing a PFD is a good way to stay safe and follow the rules, but it's essential you don't just use any old life jacket - make it the right one for your water activity, so you've got the protection you need if an emergency strikes.
Before you head out though, make sure you check out our Adventure Centre for more helpful tips and exciting destinations you can visit, such as:
