Life jackets

What buoyancy do you need?

The figure in Newtons (N) indicates the buoyancy. The higher it is, the better the vest keeps a person wearing heavy clothing or carrying tools afloat and turns them face up.

1. 100N foam vest, such as Besto Econ or Gulf: for children, recreation and sheltered waters.
2. 165N automatic: the widely used work vest in inland waterways.
3. 190N to 305N automatic: for heavy work, marine and offshore use, and for those working in heavy clothing.

For marine use, there are SOLAS-approved vests, such as the Besto automatic 300N SOLAS and the Baltic 305N M.E.D./SOLAS. Do you work in an area with an explosion risk? Then choose an ATEX vest, such as the Besto 190N with harness.

With or without harness

A vest with an integrated harness can be attached to a safety line. This is useful when working at the edge of the deck or at sea. For fall protection, there is the Besto 300N SOLAS fall arrest.

Maintenance: reserve sets and inspection

An automatic vest only works if the cartridge and the melting tablet are in good condition. After use, replace the reserve set with one from the correct system, such as United Moulders, Hammar, Halkey Roberts or Secumar. Also have your vest inspected regularly. At HOAC Marine, this costs €20 excluding VAT per vest, plus any parts. We do not inspect vests older than 14 years. Read more about life jacket inspection.

Other rescue equipment, such as buoys and throw lines, can be found under rescue equipment.