USA - Lifejacket Approval Harmonization

​The Coast Guard amends the approval requirements and follow-up program requirements for lifejackets by incorporating new standards to replace existing legacy standards. 

The Coast Guard further amends lifejacket and personal flotation device (PFD) carriage requirements to allow for the use of equipment approved to the new standards and removes obsolete equipment approval requirements. 

The amendments streamline the process for the approval of PFDs and allow manufacturers the opportunity to produce innovative equipment that complies with standards in both Canada and the United States. 

Manufacturing firms also stand to benefit through a reduced production-inspections burden.

Effective dates: This final rule is effective January 6, 2025. 

The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of January 6, 2025. 

​Compliance date: The Coast Guard will begin enforcing this rule on June 4, 2025.​