mattkem said...
Does anyone know if there be PFD's to hire/Borrow? or do you have to bring your own? (I dont own one!!) Also if sail nembers are req'd, can they be obtained on the day?
I've got one spare PFD 3 you can borrow, perhaps if anyone else has a spare one they could bring it along to help out. I am sure Luke will have a few available through the RSX and Raceboard club.
The lines for PFD's are a bit subjective and I guess it will be up to RQ. The AWA rules say it is up to the organisers so I know we used to ask the competitors to wear a PFD 3 based on the fact that we were in relatively smooth waters (PFD 3) and there was always a rescue boat on the course with courses being close to shore (hence an injured sailor would hopefully not be hard to get to quickly).
Here is the AWA's stance via their risk management notice:-
www.windsurfing.org/files/info/NSW_Risk_Management_Plan_Jul2010.pdfAnd here is some general info on PFD's
"Lifejackets (PFD's – Personal Floatation Device)
Smooth Water
PFD types 1, 2 or 3
Except in a river, creek or stream, or waters contained within breakwaters or revetments if the boat has positive floatation** and grab
lines/rails and the ship owner has a positive flotation statement on the approved form.
**For ships not fitted with an Australian Builders Plate, a positive flotation statement completed by the manufacturer or an accredited marine surveyor or ship designer must be obtained and carried.
PWC require types 2 or 3 or a wetsuit with inbuilt flotation approved as PFD type 3
Partially Smooth Water
PFD types 1 or 2. PFDs must be worn when crossing designated bars in open boats < 4.8 m.
PWC require PFD type 2
Beyond Smooth and Partially Smooth
PFD type 1. PFDs must be worn when crossing designated bars in open boats < 4.8 m.
PWC require PFD type 2
LIFE JACKET TYPES
Type (Cat.) 1 life jackets offer protection from drowning by maintaining a person in a safe floating position in the water, with buoyancy behind the head. They are compulsory for all people on board vessels in the open sea. (However PWC riders may use a type 2).
Type (Cat.) 2 & 3 are suitable for water sports where the rescue time is likely to be short. They are not designed to keep a persons head above water. A key point – Type (Cat.) 1 Lifejackets are and have special buoyancy behind the head to maintain a safe floating position."