While conducting a lifejacket inspection on a Small Passenger Vessel regulated under Title 46 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Subchapter K, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) inspectors discovered malfunctioning snap hooks on approximately 1,500 Type I adult and child lifejackets. This alert aims to raise awareness of the manufacturer defect and provide contact information for individuals to initiate corrective action.
The issue involved a malfunctioning spring-loaded tab within the snap hook that is sewn into the waist belt of Marlin Australia PTY LTD lifejacket models 320RT (USCG approval number 160.055/215) and 321RT (USCG approval number 160.055/216). The spring-loaded tab within the snap hook mechanism failed to “spring back” or return to the closed position after depressing to secure the snap hook to the D-ring. Instead of fully closing once initially depressed, the spring-loaded tab returned to a partially closed position (approximately ½ to ¾ closed), which may allow the D-ring to slide out without additional manipulation of the clasp.
The USCG Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division (CG-ENG-4) and UL Solutions conducted an investigation and found that the following lot numbers are affected: • 240193SB • 240194SB • 240195SB • 240196SB • 240197SB
The Coast Guard strongly recommends that owners/operators that have Marlin Australia PTY LTD model 320RT or 321RT lifejackets onboard their vessels inspect them closely for this potential defect and if defects are found:
• contact Mr. John Murray Jr. of Marlin Australia PTY LTD by phone at +02 9557 3999 or email at JMurray.Jnr@carrycode.com.au for specific directions on how to rectify this issue; and
• contact CG-ENG-4 at TypeApproval@uscg.mil with the lot numbers from the affected lifejackets.
This Safety Alert is provided for informational purposes only and does not relieve any domestic or international safety, operational, or material requirement. Developed by Marine Safety Unit Morgan City and distributed by the Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis. Questions may be sent to HQS-SMB-CG-INV@uscg.mil.