Type testing of personal flotation devices in accordance with Regulation 2016/425/EU on personal protective equipment and Directive 2014/90/EU on marine equipment, as amended. Testing is conducted in accordance with applicable EN ISO standards and IMO resolutions for life-saving appliances.
Mechanical and environmental testing
Personal flotation device type testing for EU, IMO and USCG compliance
Obtain independent type testing of personal flotation devices to meet EU, IMO and USCG requirements
Manufacturers of lifejackets, buoyancy aids, immersion suits and related lifesaving marine equipment require documented compliance with international requirements. Changes in directives, evolving test requirements and multiple approval routes can delay product launches and create uncertainty in technical documentation. Without verified compliance with the relevant requirements, products risk rejection by notified bodies or flag administrations, leading to redesign, retesting, and commercial disruption. We provide independent type testing and pre-evaluation of personal flotation devices and associated components, as well as other marine safety products, clarifying applicable regulatory pathways at an early stage.
Certification by FORCE Certification
We can coordinate certification with FORCE Certification A/S, so manufacturers have a single technical point of contact throughout the approval process, enabling efficient progression from prototype to certified product.
Challenges
When regulatory requirements are unclear or misinterpreted, product approvals can be delayed or rejected.
Unclear regulatory pathway delays market entry
Different directives and approval schemes apply depending on product category and market. If requirements are not correctly identified, testing may need to be repeated, delaying approval.
Incomplete technical documentation risks rejection
Missing or inconsistent test evidence can lead to non-acceptance by notified bodies or authorities, requiring additional assessments and increased project cost.
Component failures during testing require redesign
If materials or assemblies do not meet performance criteria, products may fail type tests, resulting in redesign, supply chain adjustments and postponed certification.
Benefits
Gain verified test evidence to support conformity assessment and market access decisions.
Single point of contact for the approval process
Certification activities can be arranged with FORCE Certification A/S, reducing administrative interfaces and supporting structured approval planning.
Early clarification of applicable requirements
Pre-evaluations of new products and prototypes identify relevant directives and standards, helping you plan test programmes and avoid unnecessary repetition.
Quality assured test documentation
All testing is performed in FORCE Technology's quality-managed laboratories and can be used directly in technical documentation and approval processes.
Let's discuss your PFD approval requirements
If you are manufacturing personal flotation devices, or other marine safety equipment, contact us to clarify the applicable directives, standards and approval route. Early dialogue can reduce project risk and support a structured path towards certification.
Service scope
Testing and evaluation of personal flotation devices
Standards
Applicable standards for personal flotation device testing
Related services
Mechanical and environmental testing
Personal flotation device type testing for EU, IMO and USCG compliance
Mechanical and environmental testing
Pressure testing of cylinders
Temporary service Page
Temporary Service Page For Set-Up
Mechanical and environmental testing
Protective clothing materials and components testing
Reach out to Kasper Munk Eliasen for more information.