Hybrid PFDs; Establishment of Approval Requirements

This final rule amends the structural and performance standards and procedures for approval of hybrid inflatable personal flotation devices (hybrid PFDs). Hybrid PFDs are designed to have a minimum amount of inherent flotation to ensure that a wearer will surface after falling in the water and to have a mechanism to inflate the PFD to provide additional buoyancy, and thereby greater clearance from the water, while a wearer awaits rescue. This rule also allows for approval of hybrid PFDs for youths and small children. The changes are intended to make hybrid PFDs more affordable and attractive to recreational boaters by lowering production costs and reducing required production testing. It is the Coast Guard's position that increased use of hybrid PFDs may save lives.