When do I need to re-arm my inflatable life vest?

Even if your inflatable life vest has never been inflated, it’s important to know that some components can expire over time. Regular visual inspections and timely re-arming are essential to ensure your vest is ready when you need it most.

This guide will help you understand what to look for based on the type of inflation system your vest uses.

AUTOMATIC/CONVERTABLE vests: 

Determining when to re-arm your Automatic/Convertible Mustang Survival vest depends on the inflation system use. There are three types of automatic inflation systems used in Mustang Survival products: 

Hammar Inflation Systems Hydrostatic Valve – Water Pressure) 

Halkey Roberts Inflation Systems (Water Activated Bobbin – Water Contact) 

UML Inflation Systems (Water Activated Capsule – Water Contact) 

Hammar Inflation Systems: 

Expiry Date: The Hammar Inflators expire on the last day of the calendar year printed on the cap of the inflator. For example, 2029 means it expires on December 31, 2029, even if the indicator is still green.  

Halkey Roberts Inflation Systems: 

Do you have an automatic or convertible inflator that looks like either of the following? If so, you will need to inspect the inflator, cylinder and bobbin to determine if your device requires re-arming. 

Expiry Date: Take out the bobbin for inspection.  For convenience, you can find the expiration date printed on the bobbin assembly 

Example of how to read dates:

• 08 indicates the month (August)

• 27 indicates the year (2027)

In addition to checking the dates, look at the white material inside the bobbin; it may break down depending on the user's care and maintenance of their vest. For example, if you are in a moist/humid environment, your bobbin may degrade faster and need to be taken out of service to avoid surprise inflation. This variability of use and care is why bobbin checks before each excursion are essential.

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Automatic UML Devices: 

Expiry Date: The need to re-arm your UML device will depend on the “Replace by” timestamp  you can find printed on the inflator cap. Inspect the inflator cap for the following: 

This example indicates that the inflator cap needs to be replaced by June 2022. 

Recreational use: Replace every two years or by the REPLACE BY date, whichever is sooner. 

Commercial/Professional Use: Replace annually. Do not exceed the REPLACE BY date.  

Manual Inflation Systems: 

CO2 canisters never expire. However, you should inspect the cylinder to check it is in proper working condition.  Unscrew the cylinder to ensure that the seal is intact. 

You should also replace the cylinder if it is corroded, dented, or rusted in any way.