When in an open area of a vessel, the following lifejackets wear requirements apply when the vessel is underway or at anchor:
• Children who are 12 years old or younger must wear a lifejacket at all times. (lifejacket level depends on where you are operating – which lifejacket do you need?)
• In circumstances of heightened risk, all occupants must wear a lifejacket level 50 or 50S or higher in semi-protected or protected waters and must wear a lifejacket level 100 or higher in unprotected waters.
• Circumstances of heightened risk:
- When operating alone.
- When operating after sunset or before sunrise.
- When the boat is disabled.
- When crossing an ocean bar.
- At times of restricted visibility.
- When in an area subject to gale, storm force, hurricane force, thunderstorm or severe weather warning from the Bureau of Meteorology.
- When reasonably directed to do so by the master of the vessel.
This is NEW RULE for heightened risk conditions from yesterday (30 May 2022)
• A lifejacket must be worn when operating only accompanied by a child, or children, who is 12 years old or younger. (lifejacket must be level 50 or 50S or higher in semi-protected or protected waters and level 100 or higher in unprotected waters)
For more information visit https://marinesafety.sa.gov.au/
