Vasai, Maharashtra
A work vest is worn all day; a life jacket is worn for the emergency. MM lists two work vests, and the difference between them, and between a vest and a jacket, decides which a crew should be issued.
Vest and jacket
A work vest is a flotation aid cut for movement: less bulk, more freedom, so it stays on during work on or near the water. A life jacket carries more buoyancy and, in its higher classes, turns an unconscious wearer face-up. A vest counts only while it is worn, which is why crews that would take it off in the heat should be issued a jacket instead.
MMWV
MM lists the MMWV as a highly visible commercial work vest for use on or near water, with adjustable shoulders and sides and a heavy-duty fully encircling belt and chest strap. A crotch strap and emergency whistle are fitted as standard; a life jacket light is optional. Buoyancy 100 N, PFD Type III, user weight up to 90 kg, against ISO 12402-4 and BS EN ISO 12402:2020, as stated by MM.
MMWVCG
The MMWVCG is listed with flexible foam flotation pads that cover a minimum body area, for ventilation and freedom of movement, in a nylon/acrylic fabric cover that adjusts to fit most adults, with adjustable shoulders and sides and a belt and chest strap that resist riding up in a fall. Buoyancy 78 N, PFD Type V, user weight up to 56 kg. MM names CE and the SOLAS LSA Code for it, and lists SOLAS reflective tape as fitted.
Type V, in plain terms
PFD Type V is the special-use class: a device approved for the activity on its label, and only when worn. Read the user-weight figure carefully for a Type V vest; it is lower on the MMWVCG than on the MMWV.
MM Work Vest Model: MMWV
Model MMWV
MM Work Vest Coast Guard: MMWVCG
Model MMWVCG
Figures are as listed in MM’s catalogue data; approvals named are as stated by MM Techno Plast. For the whole range by the numbers, see the comparison table.