Appendix II - Categories of buoyancy aids covered in NZS 5823:2005

BUOYANCY AID means any device designed to assist a person to remain afloat in water until rescue is effected. Categories of buoyancy aids covered in this Standard are as follows:

401/Open-waters lifejacket (previously referred to as coastal lifejacket)

A buoyancy aid worn on the body which is intended to maintain the wearer in a safe floating position and for use in rougher waters than for the in-shore waters personal flotation device. It may incorporate provisions for protection against hypothermia.

402/In-shore waters personal flotation device (PFD) (previously known as in-shore waters lifejacket)
A buoyancy aid worn on the body which is intended to maintain the wearer in a safe floating position and for use in in-shore waters where early rescue may be anticipated. Lifejackets may incorporate provisions for protection against hypothermia.

403/Buoyancy vest
A buoyancy aid worn on the body and intended for use in aquatic sports, to assist in flotation during short-term immersion in smooth waters.

404/Buoyancy aid wetsuit
A wetsuit with added buoyancy intended for use in aquatic sports where hypothermia and frequent immersion in the water may place the wearer at risk.

405/Buoyancy garment
A buoyancy aid, other than a lifejacket, personal flotation device or buoyancy vest, worn on the body and intended for use when the wearer is at risk of immersion in water.

406/Specialist personal flotation device (PFD)
A buoyancy aid worn on the body intended to maintain the wearer in a safe floating position when he or she experiences severe conditions in specific aquatic pursuits (e.g. whitewater rafting, jet and power boat racing, kayaking).

501/Rescue buoy
Buoys intended to be thrown or dropped to a person in water to assist in effecting rescue, this does not apply to lifebuoys required to be carried by commercial vessels.

601/Float-off buoyancy aid
A buoyancy aid for use in a boat and to be available to provide additional buoyancy should the boat sink.