In what situation is a Type IV life jacket required on a vessel?

A Type IV life jacket, also known as a throwable flotation device, is required on a vessel that is 16 feet or longer. The rationale for this requirement is based on safety regulations aimed at ensuring that vessels capable of carrying passengers have adequate flotation devices readily available in case of emergencies, particularly in situations where the ability to quickly throw a floatation device to someone in the water could save a life.

Vessels shorter than 16 feet generally do not have the same capacity for passengers and may not require throwable devices because they may already meet safety requirements with other life jackets or may have limited space for stowage. Therefore, the regulations specifically stipulate that vessels of 16 feet and over must carry a Type IV life jacket in addition to other life jackets, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Nighttime operation or towing multiple people might enhance risks but do not specifically mandate the presence of a Type IV device, making the requirement focused primarily on the overall size and capacity of the vessel.