Published
Minister for Business Services and Consumers John Rau has issued a formal safety warning over a scuba diving buoyancy vest.
Mr Rau says the warning relates to “Saeko Dive” buoyancy control device, particularly the Hurricane and Cyclone models, but other models may also be affected.
“Buoyancy control devices are vests worn by recreational and professional divers to control their buoyancy in the water,” Mr Rau said.
“By adjusting a valve they can adjust the volume of air in the vest’s bladder, maintaining neutral buoyancy underwater or positive buoyancy on the surface.
“The problem with these “Saeko Dive” models is that the inflator/dump valve connection is faulty.
“I’ve received advice that plastic seal can become brittle, causing the inflator device or dump valve to separate from the vest, posing a life threatening situation for divers.
“If the seal breaks, the bladder can fill with water, making it very heavy and preventing the diver from being able to surface.
“The buoyancy control devices were imported five or more years ago, and the import company has since been sold.
“We are currently negotiating for a full recall, but in the meantime, I am issuing a formal safety notice.
“I’m urging divers to stop using the devices, or to get the vest tested to ensure the inflator device and dump valve connections are in good order.”
Contact details
Media contact: Chris Burford – 0419 567 989
Twitter: @sa_press_sec
Attached documents
SA Safety Warning Notice - Diving Vest - 15 May 2013 ( PDF 22.48 KB )
