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Automatic PFD FAILED to Open Completely (Personal Floatation Device / Life Jacket)
September 4, 2020 · 7 min · 9K views
What this video covers
A West Marine automatic inflatable PFD failed to deploy fully during a controlled water test, resulting in only one side of the bladder breaking free from its Velcro enclosure.2:21 The inflation caused the life jacket to ride up significantly, creating a choking hazard for the wearer.1:17 The unit had not been serviced or had its CO2 cartridge replaced in five years.2:35 The owner plans to install a crotch strap to prevent the device from riding up and intends to manually break the Velcro seal every six months to ensure the mechanism remains functional.5:13 While the PFD successfully provided buoyancy, the failure to fully deploy highlights the risks of neglecting maintenance on inflatable safety gear. The owner recommends regular testing of automatic PFDs and suggests that offshore-rated models with integrated leg straps offer superior security compared to standard inflatable designs.6:17
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