Life Buoy: A Vital Safety Tool in Aquatic Work Environments

Worksafe Indonesia – Keep Safe, Be Safe!!

What is a Life Buoy?

A life buoy (also known as a lifebuoy ring or lifesaver) is a life-saving device designed to keep a person afloat in water during emergencies. It is typically circular, bright orange in color, and equipped with reflective tape and a grab line around its edge for easy handling.

Life buoys are mandatory safety equipment on ships, docks, harbors, swimming pools, and any construction projects located near or over bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or the sea.

Main Functions of a Life Buoy

1. Life-saving Support
   Provides immediate buoyancy to prevent drowning while waiting for rescue.

2. Location Marker
   Its bright color and reflective bands make it easier to spot a victim in the water, especially at night.

3. Assisted Rescue
   Many life buoys come with a rope, allowing rescuers to pull the victim to safety without entering the water.

Types of Life Buoys

1. Standard SOLAS-Approved Life Buoy
   Used on commercial vessels and complies with IMO/SOLAS international safety standards.

2. Life Buoy with Smoke Signal and Light
   Designed for nighttime or low-visibility emergencies, equipped with auto-activating light and smoke signals.

3. Mini Life Buoy
   Smaller and lighter, suitable for swimming pools or recreational use.

Materials and Design

Life buoys are constructed from materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and provide high flotation, including:

• Polyethylene or Polyurethane Foam
  Lightweight and unsinkable, ideal for emergency use.

• High-Density Plastic Shell
  Protects against impact, moisture, and UV exposure.

• Bright Color and Reflective Strips
  Enhance visibility in all lighting conditions.

Standards and Regulations

Life buoys are governed by international and national regulations to ensure their effectiveness and proper use:

• IMO/SOLAS – Required on maritime vessels per international maritime laws.

• Indonesian Ministry of Transportation – Mandates availability in ports, docks, and water-related projects.

• SNI (Indonesian National Standard) – Provides technical specifications and guidelines.

Placement and Inspection

To ensure life buoys are effective during emergencies, the following practices are recommended:

✅ Install in clearly visible and easily accessible locations
✅ Attach a floating rope of at least 30 meters
✅ Perform regular inspections to check for cracks, damage, or missing parts
✅ Protect from direct, prolonged sunlight to maintain material strength

Importance of Training and Usage

Providing the equipment alone is not enough—proper training is critical. Training should include:

• How to accurately throw a life buoy to a victim

• Techniques for retrieving a victim using the rope

• Basic first aid steps after a water rescue

Conclusion

Though simple in design, the life buoy is an essential tool for preventing drownings and promoting workplace safety near water. Providing, maintaining, and knowing how to use life buoys reflects a strong safety culture and commitment to saving lives.

At Worksafe Indonesia, we believe safety is not optional—it is a professional responsibility.

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