Maintaining your lifejacket

Spinlock suggest checking your Deckvest life jacket annually at a minimum, even if you feel your Deckvest has had little use. For lifejackets used more frequently checks every 3 months are advised. These checks can be made yourself at home following our instructions. Alternatively if you are unsure we have accredited service centres globally who can service your Deckvest. 

OUTER FABRICS – Rinse or wipe with freshwater and check for any cuts or tears, signs of abrasion or potential heat and chemical damage. Do not use any harsh chemicals to clean the jacket as this may damage the materials. Assess all stitching areas for damage or tearing along the seam. The outer fabric can be subject to more stress than you may consider, even during storage.

BLADDER – Inflate your lifejacket using the Oral inflation tube. Leave the jacket for 24 hours in a dry controlled environment. Any decrease in pressure during this time may indicate it is unsafe. Check the oral inflation tube for leakage whilst the bladder is still inflated by placing the tube underwater and checking for bubbles indicating loss of air. If any signs of leaking are discovered take your lifejacket to your nearest service centre for repair.

COMPONENTS - Check over all components for signs of damage and wear.

PYLON LIGHT - Ensure the Pylon light is still functioning by holding the test button. If there is any sign of corrosion at the terminals this will indicate damp wet conditions may have activated the light inside the cover, running down the battery.

LUME-ON LIGHTS - Test your Lume-On lights by applying water to the terminals, again if corrosion is present damp conditions are likely to have run down the battery. If the unit is broken remove the old ones and replace with new.

SPRAYHOOD - Ensure the sprayhood is still attached and all stitching are buckles are secure, check there is no degradation to the fabrics. If significant damage is found this can be replaced by yourself.

FIRING UNIT - Ensure all firing head indicators are showing 'Green' and there is no corrosion. If indicators are 'Red' the firing cap, cylinder or both will need replacing. Check the Expiry Date on the firing cap, if this has expired replace immediately. Ensure the firing head is screwed tight.

CYLINDER - Ensure there is no corrosion on the cylinder and around the join to the firing unit. Make sure the cylinder is screwed in hand tight.

For a full list of spare parts see our support page.

If you would like any further clarification on servicing your Deckvest or have a general query please do not hesitate to contact us either via email prosupport@spinlock.co.uk.