Serviced to surface

摘要

Lifejackets require regular inspection and servicing to ensure they stay in good condition and provide the protection for which they were designed. The IMO's SOLAS and LSA Code mandate that lifejackets should be serviced annually. Meanwhile, various manufacturers work with the International Life-Saving Appliance Manufacturers' Association (ILAMA) to submit regulatory suggestions to the IMO. Interpretations vary on who can service SOLAS-approved inflatable jackets, according to Soren Hansen, product manager for water and fire PPE at Viking. "Should a service facility be authorised by the manufacturer or not? Not all flag states seem to agree," he said.