How to Inspect Your Lifejacket — Step by Step

I check lifejackets regularly as part of offshore work. The most common faults I find are not dramatic failures — they are small things that accumulate over time from neglect. A bobbin that is past its expiry date. A cylinder that is not properly screwed in. A crotch strap that is missing entirely.

Any of those faults, in the water, are potentially life-threatening. Here is how to inspect your lifejacket properly.

The Full Inspection — Do This Before Every Passage

Step 1 — Visual inspection of the outer cover

Check the inflation cover for any damage, cuts, or significant wear. Check all D-rings, buckles, and attachment points are present and undamaged. Check the harness webbing — particularly any areas that get regular wear such as shoulder and waist adjusters — for fraying or degradation.

Step 2 — Check the CO2 cylinder

Unscrew the CO2 cylinder from the inflation mechanism. Check the weight — a used or leaking cylinder will be lighter than a full one. The weight is printed on the cylinder itself. Weigh it if you have any doubt. Re-screw the cylinder — it must be fully engaged with the inflator mechanism, not just hand-tight.

Step 3 — Check the automatic bobbin

The automatic bobbin is the small water-soluble trigger that activates the lifejacket automatically when it gets wet. Check the expiry date stamped on the bobbin — most have a service life of 12 months. An expired bobbin means the automatic activation will not work. Replace it. They cost a few pounds and the service kit for your specific lifejacket includes the correct type.

Step 4 — Check the bladder

Inflate the bladder by mouth through the oral inflation tube. Inflate it to firm and leave it for 10 minutes. Check for any deflation during that time. Any noticeable deflation means the bladder has a leak and needs repair or replacement. Do not use a leaking bladder lifejacket at sea.

Step 5 — Check the light and whistle

Locate the water-activated light clipped to the lifejacket. Check the battery expiry date. Check the whistle — is it present, in good condition, attached to the jacket? These are small items that disappear and are rarely replaced.

Step 6 — Check the crotch strap

The crotch strap prevents the lifejacket from riding up over your head in the water. Without it, an inflated lifejacket can end up over your face. Check it is present, undamaged, and correctly connected to the jacket. This is the most commonly missing item on lifejackets that have been lent between crew or stored improperly.

Step 7 — Check the harness if fitted

For offshore lifejackets with integrated harness, check the harness webbing and load-bearing attachment points. These are safety-critical components — any damage to harness webbing means the jacket should not be used for tethered work.

What Would Make You Refuse a Lifejacket?

An expired bobbin — automatic inflation will not work. Replace before use.

A leaking bladder — the lifejacket will not stay inflated. Do not use.

A missing or damaged crotch strap — the jacket may not keep you face-up in the water. Do not use.

An underweight CO2 cylinder — inflation may be incomplete. Replace the cylinder.

Significant damage to cover, webbing, or bladder — any structural damage that compromises the integrity of the jacket. Do not use.

In a professional offshore context, I would refuse to mobilise until appropriate equipment was available. A lifejacket is life-critical equipment — there is no acceptable compromise on this.

FAQs

How often should I have my lifejacket professionally serviced?
Annually. A professional service checks everything you can check yourself plus the inflator mechanism function, cylinder pressure, and any components requiring specialist equipment. Always have lifejackets professionally serviced in addition to your own pre-passage inspection.

Can I service my own lifejacket?
The visual inspection and bobbin replacement are tasks an owner can perform with the correct service kit. The full service — particularly inflator mechanism testing — should be done by a qualified service centre.

What is a lifejacket service kit?
A manufacturer-specific kit containing the replacement bobbin, cylinder re-arm pin, and any other components that need replacing at each service. Order the kit specific to your lifejacket model.

A lifejacket that has not been inspected is not reliable safety equipment. Inspect before every passage, service annually. marinesafetyguide.com participates in affiliate programmes including Amazon Associates and may earn a small commission on purchases made through links on this site.