Types of lifejackets
On this page:
Lifejackets: Choosing the right one to wear
Lifejackets for kids
Open waters
There are two types available for open waters
Type 401 - inflatable
Achieves buoyancy by either a:
- water-activated switch
- manual pull cord
May include a mouthpiece
Designed to keep the wearer vertical during unconsciousness
Comfortable and convenient to wear at all times
Must provide 150 newtons of buoyancy
Guidelines for inflatable lifejackets
Download nationally agreed guidelines to help choose the right inflatable lifejacket, and know how and when to service it.
Type 401 - semi-rigid
Achieves buoyancy by a semi-rigid foam
Designed to keep the wearer vertical during unconsciousness
Minimum buoyancy rating of 100 newtons (adult size)
Not suitable for continuous wearing on pleasure craft
Best suited for emergencies
National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 401: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type I PFD offshore life jacket; AS 4758 level 150; ISO 12402-3; EN 396.
Inshore waters
Type 402
Must have a buoyant collar
Not designed to keep an unconscious person’s face above water
Provides at least 71 newtons of buoyancy (adult size)
Comfortable and convenient to wear at all times
Compatible with a crotch strap
Not suitable for rough conditions
National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 402: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type II PFD near shore buoyant vest; AS 4758 level 100; AS 1512 PFD type I; ISO 12402-4; EN 395.
Specialist lifejackets and personal flotation devices
Type 403
No collar
Lower buoyancy rating when compared with other lifejackets
Lower levels of support and safety compared to other models
No reflective or bright materials
Necessary for some aquatic sports
Must have at least 53 newtons of buoyancy (adult size)
National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 403: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type III PFD; AS 4758 level 50; AS 1499 PFD type 2; AS 2260 PFD type 3; ISO 12402-5; EN 393.
Buoyancy aid and wetsuit
Type 404
A wetsuit with added buoyancy in specific areas. These are very expensive and suitable for some sporting activities.
Buoyancy garment
Type 405
No collar
Lower buoyancy rating when compared with other lifejackets
Lower levels of support and safety compared to other models
Necessary for some aquatic sports
Has reflective material bright colours
National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 405: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type III PFD; AS 4758 level 50; AS 1499 PFD type 2; AS 2260 PFD type 3; ISO 12402-5; EN 393.
Specialist PFD
Type 406
May be fitted with a collar
Not intended for use at night
May not be suitable for all conditions
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