The Coast Guard has issued a final rule to update and harmonize approval requirements for lifejackets, also known as personal flotation devices (PFDs), by adopting new standards that improve compatibility with Canadian regulations. This change allows for the production of more innovative and comfortable lifejackets and includes revisions to labeling requirements. The rule also permits the use of new lifejacket designs approved under these standards and eliminates certain outdated approval requirements, which can reduce costs and inspection burdens for manufacturers. The rule aims to enhance safety and streamline the process for lifejacket approval while supporting better compliance and improved usage among recreational and commercial vessel operators in both the U.S. and Canada.
Simple Explanation
The Coast Guard is changing the rules for lifejackets to make them safer and easier to use, so people on boats in the U.S. and Canada can have better and more comfy safety gear. This means new designs for lifejackets will be allowed, and old rules that were hard for makers will go away, making it easier and cheaper to make new lifejackets.