Is it necessary to wear a lifejacket over an immersion suit?

Wearing a lifejacket over an immersion suit is not necessary because immersion suits are designed to provide buoyancy and thermal protection in cold water conditions. They are made from materials that help retain body heat and keep the wearer afloat, which already addresses the primary safety concern of maintaining buoyancy in the water.

Lifejackets are intended for use in situations where someone might fall overboard, providing additional buoyancy. When wearing an immersion suit, it is generally more comfortable and practical to forego the lifejacket, as the suit itself serves the purpose of keeping the individual safe in cold water.

In addition, wearing both a lifejacket and an immersion suit may lead to mobility issues, as the bulk of both garments can restrict movement and make it challenging to maneuver effectively in emergency situations. Thus, while lifejackets are critical in many scenarios, their use over an immersion suit is not necessary.