Posted By Stuart Nagle I would have thought a (gas cartridge) inflatable type vest that could be worn over the the overalls and under the backpack would suit best. Thes inflate autommatically if the person enters the water. They can I belive be obtained in various sizes and inflatation sizes to deal with size of person (which could assist in respect of all the PPE being worn. There may also be alternative types of PPE that could make the load lighter, disposable thin but effective coveralls with hood etc may be an alternative if weeds are not sharp or piercing (e.g thorns ect) or lighter overalls with leg and arm protection (including gloves etc rather than an all in one heavy overall !! I would also suggest that lone working safety arrangements be considered if this is the case, and how any emergency is to be responded to!! Alternatively two man working groups and of course, lifebouys and possibly poles for reaching anyone. And are there any non-swimmers?

Posted By Martyn Hendrie Sorry, just realised I had not read your original thread in enough detail

Posted By Hilary Charlton Does the worker have any form of breathing apparatus? If he is dealing with invasive plant life then it may be an idea to assume that if he falls in he could get trapped in said pond life. Even with a buoyancy aid, suppose it were to inflate but he was trapped face down in the water and held in place by the weeds? This may have already been looked at but you don't mention any form of emergency oxygen supplies so I wonder if it is a possibility? Hilary

Posted By Ian Mycroft Benedict Reading Hilary's response I'd like to just give a word of caution, but you will probably be on top of it any way. Make sure that, whatever make of jacket you decide on, it is a LIFE jacket and not a BOUYANCY AID. They are very different amimals. A life jacket will keep a person afloat and face up even if unconsious, a bouyancy aid will keep a person afloat but not necessarily the right way up and so they still could drown.