Yes, life jackets do go bad over time, becoming less effective and potentially unsafe, even though they don't come with official expiry dates.
While personal flotation devices (PFDs), including life vests and life jackets, do not have official expiry dates, they are not immune to the effects of time, wear, and environmental exposure. Factors such as frequent use, general wear and tear, and prolonged exposure to various elements gradually degrade the materials and reduce their effectiveness. Over time, the internal foam within traditional life jackets progressively loses its crucial buoyancy, significantly diminishing its ability to keep a person's head above water, which is essential for safety.
How Life Jackets Degrade Over Time
Several factors contribute to a life jacket's deterioration, rendering it unfit for use:
- Material Degradation: Fabrics can weaken, fade, and tear due to exposure to UV rays from sunlight, saltwater, chlorine, and petroleum products. Stitching can unravel, and reflective tape can peel off.
- Buoyancy Loss: The foam core, particularly in traditional inherently buoyant life jackets, can compress, break down, or become waterlogged. This reduces its ability to trap air and provide the necessary lift.
- Hardware Failure: Zippers can corrode or jam, buckles can become brittle and break, and straps can fray or lose their elasticity, compromising the jacket's fit and security.
- Mold and Mildew: Improper storage in damp environments can lead to mold and mildew growth, which not only causes odors but also degrades fabrics and foam.
Signs a Life Jacket Has Gone Bad
Regular inspection is crucial to ensure a life jacket remains reliable. Here are key indicators that a life jacket may no longer be safe for use:
| Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Tears or Rips | Any holes, tears, or significant abrasions in the fabric or straps. |
| Fading/Discoloration | Extreme fading or discoloration, especially from sun exposure, indicates material weakening. |
| Strap/Buckle Damage | Frayed, cut, or stretched straps; cracked, broken, or corroded buckles or zippers. |
| Loss of Buoyancy | When pressed, the foam feels brittle, lumpy, or significantly less resilient. A "float test" reveals poor lift. |
| Waterlogging | If the jacket absorbs water and feels heavy when wet, indicating compromised foam or material. |
| Mold or Mildew | Visible mold or mildew, especially if it's deeply ingrained, suggesting fabric and foam degradation. |
Maintaining and Inspecting Your Life Jacket
To extend the lifespan of your life jackets and ensure they remain effective:
- Regular Visual Inspection: Before each outing, thoroughly check the jacket for any visible signs of wear, tears, punctures, or hardware damage.
- Perform a Buoyancy Test: Annually, or if you suspect a problem, put the life jacket on in a controlled, shallow water environment. It should keep your head easily above the water without significant effort.
- Proper Cleaning: Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after use, especially after exposure to saltwater or chemicals. Follow manufacturer cleaning instructions.
- Air Dry Completely: Always allow the life jacket to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat, before storing.
- Store Correctly: Store in a cool, dry, dark place. Avoid compressing the foam, hanging by a single strap, or storing near fuel, oil, or other chemicals that can degrade materials.
Even if a life jacket looks acceptable, if it's old and has been subjected to harsh conditions, its internal components may have degraded. When in doubt, it's always safest to replace it. A compromised life jacket offers a false sense of security and can be dangerous in an emergency.
