Spring, will soon point the tip of his nose, and with him rings the time of the first navigations. Before taking off, be sure to check the condition of your individual safety equipment.
Division 240 (Marine Regulations) provides a list of mandatory safety equipment on board recreational vessels. This endowment must adapt to its navigation zone (from 2 miles to more than 60 miles from a shelter). If there are no regulations concerning the verification and maintenance of this equipment, it is nevertheless essential to do so. But how fast? Here are a few tips.
Inflatable lifejacket
It is essential to regularly check the condition of your lifejackets since in case of a fall to the sea it will allow you to float.
Visual control aims at the general appearance of the vest. Check the condition of the main components, which should show no signs of wear: outer cover, seams, inflatable chamber, straps, tightening loops, whistle, retro-reflective tape, CO2 bottle or percussion head.
The latter requires special attention. Check that the CO2 bottle is full, well screwed in and without any rust. The percussion system of the models with automatic or hydrostatic inflation has an expiry date.
In addition to this visual check - recommended before each use - a complete overhaul by an authorized agent is highly recommended. The latter will check the general condition, the tightness of the inner tube and the inflation system.
In the absence of regulation, Plastimo recommends a professional revision every two years.
The luminous device
Check the correct operation, the batteries and the tightness of your lamps: flash, torch, and frontal. Check the expiration date of the Cyalume sticks (manufacturer's manual), their service life varies depending on the type of product (2 to 5 years depending on the references).
The personal tag (PLB)
This small distress beacon can slip into his vest or into a pocket and is used to locate a man overboard. Running on battery, they also have an expiry date written on the box. Like the tag of the boat, it will have to be sent back to the builder who will carry out the restoration.
The harness
The harness is a fundamental element of safety. It is often integrated into the lifejacket. A visual check can determine signs of wear.
For maintenance, rinse with clean water after each use, let it dry and store it in the shade and in the shade. Check the seams regularly. Finally, if it has already been requested, replace it.
The loin
Like the harness, the lanyard must be checked for integrity. Some brands, such as Plastimo, add an overload indicator which, if the load is too high, breaks down and reveals a label indicating that the lanyard needs to be replaced. This is mandatory for offshore racing.
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