RFD Inflatable PFD1 Vests Making the Workplace Safer

by Connexion PR on 15 Jan 2009
The Western Australian branch of RFD Australia is pioneering a new era of safety in the marine workplace. Sales of the RFD 11A and RFD 150N model inflatable PFD 1 life jackets are continuing to grow with a higher number of sales coming from companies employing people who work on or near the water.

According to RFD’s State Manager John Hay, employers are becoming ever more aware of their duty of care.

'Having your employees wear a PFD 1 life jacket in a work situation is not mandatory in the same way that hard hats are,' said John Hay.

'But it is only inevitable that such legislation mandating life jackets as a work safe requirement is on its way. This is not a matter of if, but when.'

RFD continues to supply numerous customers ordering bulk shipments of the RFD 150N and RFD 11A inflatable life jackets. These have been supplied to construction companies building jetties and wharves, companies running a fleet of commercial fishing boats as well as the Australian Customs Service.

The RFD 150N is a quality, high-end product generally aimed at recreational boaters, competition sailors and blue water game fishermen. It is available in both manual and auto inflation models.

The RFD 11A has all the same features of the RFD 150N, the principal enhancements being that the 11A is fitted with automatic light, and a harder wearing Proban fire retardant valise. The RFD 11A is specifically manufactured for commercial use and for serious recreational boaters who take to the water frequently.

RFD’s inflatable vests are comfortable to wear and allow workers to perform their work tasks with minimal distraction and discomfort. Standard inherently buoyant life jackets are neither designed nor intended for use in the work situation.

'There are a growing number of enlightened companies who recognise that they have a duty of care to their employees who work on or above the water,' John Hay said.

'These are organisations that equip their workers with PFD 1 life jackets and some who go even further and issue a personal locator beacon (PLB) type EPIRB as well.'

'These are companies who value the welfare of their employees and accept their responsibility for a safe work place. These are enlightened companies who take Occupational Health and Safety very seriously.'

As an added service, RFD has also screen printed the valise with the customer’s company logo for ease of identification and product security.

RFD is a world leading supplier of marine safety products and inflatable watercraft marketed under a range of brand names. Some of these brands include Aquapro inflatable boats, Plastimo boating equipment, ACR electronics and Aquaglide water sport products.

Beginning in 1920, RFD is primarily involved in the supply and service of marine, fire, life support and gas control equipment.

For all information concerning supply and pricing of individual products within the broad range, please contact your regional RFD branch office.