QUESTION: During a recent annual survey the lifebuoy was in overall good condition, the reflective tape was good, and it was marked in block capital letters with the vessel’s name. However, the identification label was worn off and I was unable to confirm if the lifebuoy was USCG-approved. Does this lifebuoy need to be replaced?
RESPONSE:
Yes. 46 CFR 141.360(b)(1) states that each lifebuoy “Be approved under approval series 160.050 or 160.150.” If the labeling on the lifebuoy is unreadable and/or missing, and you are unable to verify the series of the lifebuoy it should be replaced.