Stearns Safety & Survival 1189 - Manual (Page 10)

10
V. CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL PRODUCT LIFE EXPECTANCY
The reliability and service life of this PFD depends greatly upon how it is
used and cared for. Avoid storing PFD in direct sunlight. Sunlight contains
ultraviolet radiation that weakens synthetic materials. Prolonged
exposures to high temperatures and high humidity may shorten service
life of this PFD. While it is known that these elements degrade the
materials, every use environment is unique so there is no sure way to
estimate how long the PFD will last. It is for this reason that you must
follow the care and cleaning instructions and perform the maintenance
and service checks. This will assure that the PFD remains functional and
will maximize the useful life of this PFD. Failure to follow these instructions
rigorously could result in a non-functioning PFD causing injury or death.
USER'S INSPECTION
The users should perform the following checks before each season, or
before a long journey, or before each outing, as recommended below:
1. Physical Inspection of Cover and Straps - Examine outer shell
fabric, seams, webbing attachments, buckles, slides, etc. Fabric
fading can indicate a loss of strength. Check for strength by pulling
seams and attachments snugly. If device shows any signs of damage,
return to a certified Stearns Repair Facility or replace the entire
device. This inspection should be performed each outing.
2. Oral Inflation Leak Test - This test should be performed every two
months and at the start of each season. Inflate buoyancy chamber
using the oral inflation valve and leave to rest for 16 hours. When
buoyancy chamber remains firm and full of air, there is no leakage
and chamber is operational. If the chamber deflates during this leak
test, immediately bring to a certified Stearns Repair Facility for repair.
The device is no longer in operational condition.
3. Function Test of Oral Valve - With the PFD inflated, remove the dust
protection cap, and test the valve by pushing it down using the tab
provided on the cap (refer to Page 8). The valve should depress
easily, and when released it should automatically return to the closed
position and reseal.