New Life Jacket Label Levels

The following icons appear on the labels of the new harmonized life jacket models. The icons below indicate the Level and anticipated environment and water conditions when in use.

The new labels use a number to indicate the minimum buoyancy of the life jacket expressed in newtons: 50, 70, or 100.

• Level 50 (when accepted) must be worn to meet legal requirements.
• Level 70 has a higher minimum buoyant force than Level 50. These devices may not need to be worn to meet legal requirements. Note that in-water performance and buoyancy may far exceed the Level 70 minimums required. You should refer to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Level 100 (when accepted) is designated for commercial use. They require turning and higher buoyancy than recreational devices require.

The icons below appear on the new harmonized life jacket models. These icons show restricted activities. If your life jacket doesn’t show a restriction, then it is acceptable to use for that activity.

These graphics indicate additional information regarding activity selection and ability to turn an unconscious swimmer face-up:

• The icons are used to inform the user that a device may not be appropriate for certain activities. From left to right, the above icons indicate the following: warning to read important label information, not approved for use on a personal watercraft, not approved for towed water sports, not approved for use while tubing, and not approved for use during whitewater conditions.
• The clockwise turning arrow indicates the device is certified for turning ability.
• The clockwise turning arrow with a circle and slash over it indicates the device is not tested or certified for turning.