Lifejacket Servicing
Marine Safety Equipment
& Servicing

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Commercial
Lifejacket Servicing

Solas Twin Chamber

All SOLAS Lifejackets are twin chamber and typically a minimum of 275N. These jackets are different to standard jackets partly because they are twin chamber and partly because they have pressure release valves. The twin chamber set up means you effectively have two lifejackets in one. There is a fail safe built in. This means that should one system of inflation fail, the other can take over.

SOLAS jackets must be serviced by an approved agent. We use calibrated compressors with carbon filters and manometers which are tested every 6 months to ensure the correct pressures are tested. It is vitally important to have the jacket packed correctly. Every jacket is different and if it's not packed correctly, it could fail to go off all together.

Leisure
Lifejacket servicing

Standard Jackets

CE / EN marked lifejackets are still the norm for many leisure and commercial users. There is a new standard out with the ISO jackets.

The servicing of these jackets still uses the same method of dry air inflation and a pressure test. The parts used are also exactly the same.

Lifejacket servicing costs £12.75 + vat per jacket. This includes the full service and repack of the jacket. The replacement parts such as the auto cartridges, lights or cylinders are charged as extras. The lifejacket or jackets come with a 1-2 year certificate dependant on use.

We do offer a collection and delivery service which we can book from our office. Our couriers will collect from your place of work or home address.

Lifejacket servicing typically takes between 1-5 days depending on the numbers.

Lifejacket
Spares

UML MK5i AUTO CARTRIDGE

These tend to be black with green bottom and a date stamped on the outside. These can only be installed on a jacket for a maximum of two years. The date is a replace by date for the service station, not the user.

UML Elite Cartridge

These are the latest version from United Moulders. These are grey in colour and as with the MK5i, can only be on a jacket for two years max.

Indicator clips

These are normally green and clip to the operating head of the life jacket and prevent accidental pulling of the life jacket, but mainly indicate that the jacket has been manually pulled if the clip is removed.

Super Bobbin

These are yellow and can be found inside the clear 'bowl' at the bottom of the operating head. These are salt capsules and therefore need changing annually..

MA1

These are the newer version of the Hammar system. These can be identified by the yellow pull handle. The older version has the red handle

Lifejacket Light

These Lifejacket lights can be added to most lifejackets. They are automatic or manual and show the UK flag.

Lifejacket servicing is a vital part of maritime safety, especially for those who spend time on the water commercial or leisure capacity. Regular inspection and maintenance of lifejackets is strongly advised to ensure they function properly in an emergency. Whether you're a professional seafarer or a recreational sailor, a well-maintained lifejacket can make a life-saving difference.

Many modern lifejackets rely on a gas cylinder for inflation. During servicing, the cylinder is carefully checked for corrosion, leaks, and correct weight to ensure it will activate reliably when needed. The inspection also includes examining the firing mechanism, oral inflation tube, and the overall buoyancy of the jacket. If any part is damaged or worn, it should be repaired or replaced immediately.

Another key aspect of lifejacket servicing is checking the condition of the fabric and straps. Over time, exposure to sunlight, saltwater, and general wear can weaken these components. The strap system must remain strong and secure to keep the lifejacket firmly attached to the wearer during an emergency.

Regular servicing is often required by insurance providers and maritime authorities, especially for commercial vessels. For private yacht or boat owners, it's simply a smart safety measure. A routine inspection not only ensures that the lifejacket will perform as expected but also provides peace of mind.

Neglecting to service a lifejacket could result in a failure when it’s needed most. By maintaining the gas cylinder, straps, buoyancy, and all associated emergency equipment, you ensure that you're properly protected on the water.

Lifejacket Servicing
Marine Safety Equipment
& Servicing

Commercial
Lifejacket Servicing

Solas Twin Chamber

Leisure
Lifejacket servicing