(a) This subpart contains structural and performance standards for approval of Level 50 and Level 70 inflatable recreational personal flotation devices (PFDs), as well as requirements for production follow-up inspections, associated manuals, information placards, and markings.

(b) Inflatable PFDs approved under this subpart rely entirely or partially upon inflation to achieve the minimum buoyancy.

(c) PFDs approved under this subpart are intended to meet the carriage requirements for uninspected commercial vessels under 40 ft (12m) not carrying passengers for hire and recreational boats, in accordance with 33 CFR part 175 and 46 CFR 25.25.