Transport Canada’s Small Vessel Regulations require that an approved PFD or lifejacket of an appropriate size be carried for each person on board a recreational vessel, but the Regulations do not require them to be worn except in limited circumstances. Previous research projects that analyzed the wearing of lifejackets is being used as criteria to consider options for mandatory wear requirements of lifejackets in certain circumstances when boating recreationally. These criteria are based on age requirements, vessel length, and vessel type.
Canada wants to hear from stakeholders regarding mandatory wear of lifejackets. Canadian boaters are asked to participate in an online Survey to provide their opinions and feedback. You can also email your comments to MSSRegulations-ReglementsSSM@tc.gc.ca. Submissions should be completed before November 4, 2024.
The goal of any proposed changes in Regulations is to reduce deaths among boaters at greatest risk. Any potential requirements would only apply while a vessel is moving, so as not to impact other activities. Other criteria may be considered based on data and public feedback.
Canada averages 111 recreational boating deaths each year. Studies have shown that not using a PFD/lifejacket is a leading cause of death among recreational boaters, accounting for 89% of all fatalities. Wear rates for minors under the age of 18 were nearly double that of adults – 67% for youth vs 29% for adults. Children 6-12 years of age were found to have the highest wear rates. Study results for human-powered vessels ranged widely, with high-wear rates for boaters using kayaks (78%) but much lower rates for those using canoes (41%). Wear rates varied widely across vessel types but found to be higher on small vessels as opposed to larger vessels. And passengers on vessels were found to be much more likely (46x) to wear a PFD/lifejacket when the operator was wearing one.
Photo: Unsplash by Murat Bahar
