Inflatable lifejackets fail to inflate
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 July 2003
- Generated on 15 April 2026
- IMCA SF 06/03
- 2 minute read
This safety alert was received from the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA)
What happened?
“Recently a fisherman and a workboat crewman died when the inflatable lifejackets they were wearing failed to inflate. We suspect that the gas cylinders may have worked loose since the lifejackets were last inspected.
“Manufacturers provide instructions and maintenance procedures for inflatable lifejackets which include details of regular and routine inspections.
The following key learning points have been noted:
- Owners of inflatable lifejackets should have them serviced and inspected in accordance with the manufactures’ instruction.
- Owners should include the service and maintenance of inflatable lifejackets within their safety management system.
- Users of inflatable lifejackets should be instructed in their use.
- Owners should maintain a record of serving, inspection and the training of users of inflatable lifejackets; . Users of inflatable lifejackets should inspect them before putting them on. Inspection should include:
- Inspection of straps, buckles and outer covers.
- Inspection of Safety harness, its stitching an buckles.
- Inspection of the inflatable lung for abrasion damage.
- Inspection of gas inflation cylinder for signs of corrosion.
- Inspection of the gas inflation for tightness of connection to the inflation mechanism; and
- Inspection of the automatic inflation system, if fitted.”
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.