PSC giữ tàu vì Immersion suit - Vessel detained by PSC with Immersion suit deficiency

Recently, Port State Control Officers worldwide have issued deficiencies, and even vessel detentions for damaged immersion suits. 

The damage to the zipper closures on multiple immersion suits was apparently the direct result of the crew’s efforts to maintain them. Their application of petroleum jelly was intended to lubricate the zipper closures. Instead, it appears that the product caused the material to breakdown and resulted in the inability to use the zippers. It is very important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining immersion suits, including use of the correct zipper lubricant. 

Following guide for immersion suite should be applied.

STEP 1
Check closures on storage bag as well as the general condition of the bag for ease of removal of the suit (A). Ensure that donning instructions are legible (B). Be sure that the bag and size are correct for that particular suit (C).

STEP 2

Lay the suit on a flat, clean surface. Make sure that the suit is dry, inside and out. Visually check suit for damage. Contact an authorized Immersion Suit service station if your immersion suit becomes ripped, torn, punctured, burned by chemicals and/or heat, or has seam leaks.

STEP 3
Check zipper for ease of operation by sliding it up and down the entire length of the zipper. If the zipper is not functioning correctly, the suit must be returned to Service for thorough inspection, repair and/or replacement. Visually inspect the front and back of the zipper for any signs of corrosion and loose or missing teeth. Check the zipper slider pull cord for damage and proper attachment to the slide mechanism. 

STEP 4
Apply beeswax to the front and back of the zipper. Slide the zipper up and down 3 times to work in the beeswax. There should NEVER be a build-up of wax between the zipper teeth. Use a nylon brush to remove excess wax.

STEP 5
Check the retro-reflective tape and replace if loose, dull or damaged. Ideally this should be adhered by a certified Imperial Immersion Suits service station. 

STEP 6

Check whistle (D) and light (E) for proper operation. Check light battery for expiration. Replace battery if expired. Replace entire light if it is expired or if the unit is suspected of being faulty.

STEP 7

Check high-rider ring for obvious damage and ensure that it is properly attached to the suit. Check inflation hose for any deterioration and/or leaks. See that the lock screw is in the open position (F).

STEP 8
The high-rider inflation ring should be inflated and tested for leaks using one of the following methods listed below:
1. Inflate the ring, then immerse in water (or spray with soapy water), looking  carefully for any escaping bubbles (G). If any bubbles are escaping, the high-rider ring must be replaced.

2. Inflate and let stand for at least 24 hours. Check for firmness. If any deflation has occurred, the high-rider ring must be replaced.

STEP 9
Cleaning your immersion suit should only be done if necessary. The suit should NEVER be cleaned or exposed to any kind of solvents or similar cleaners. The immersion suit should be washed with common household soap or mild detergents and rinsed thoroughly with plenty of fresh water. Stains can be removed by gently scrubbing with a soft nylon brush.

STEP 10
After cleaning, turn the suit inside-out and hang on a large sturdy hanger (common wardrobe hangers will not support the suit). Be careful not to expose the suit to direct sunlight or heating apparatus. When the inside of the suit is completely dry, turn the suit back to its original position, return to hanger and wait until dry.